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By Mohamed Abdelgaleel, MC/MPA, Edward S. Mason Program, 2025
Listening to an amazing ELI, CPL, and HKS alumni to harness his knowledge and wisdom was terrific. Abdulla’s words resonated with us as we embark on a journey to catalyze developments in our regions. His message encompassed a multifaceted approach to solving problems, including the technical side, soft skills, and cultural aspects of the Middle East.
Abdulla Aljefri’s reflections on navigating life after graduation highlighted the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and empathy. He emphasized that true fulfillment does not come solely from achieving goals but from the journey of pursuing them, even when it is challenging. His message echoes with the need to embrace failures, adapt to different perspectives, and continue learning through diverse experiences to drive positive change in our world.
What made this conversation especially powerful was Abdulla’s vulnerability in sharing a major life update: After 16 impactful years at the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, he is stepping into a new chapter in his professional journey. Abdulla is a true embodiment of what he is advocating for and a role model leading by example. His reflections on this transition—marked by gratitude, purpose, and excitement—offered us a firsthand example of what it means to lead with integrity through change. For many of us, witnessing this moment underscored the importance of evolving with our values and remaining open to new paths of impact.
In hindsight, following Abdulla’s advice unlocked my potential to come to Cambridge. I embraced ambiguity and uncertainty, leaving my comfort zone to explore how to benefit the world. ELI, CPL, and HKS have reshaped how I view my role in the world, and I intend to act on that. This is a shared intention among our cohort who plan to channel their energy into eloquent actions, trailblazing the Arabian region into a new, prosperous future.