UNDER THE PATRONAGE OF HRH PRINCESS NOURA BINT SAUD BIN NAYEF BIN ABDULAZIZ AL SAUD
Noura Alsaud is a visionary entrepreneur with over 10 years of experience in the creative and cultural sectors. She holds a Masters Degree in Contemporary Design from Sotheby’s Institute of Art, and THNK’s Executive Leadership Program, which laid the foundation for her deep understanding of the intersection between creativity and business. As the founder of Rukun Creative Exchange and Almashtal Creative Incubator, Noura has established dynamic platforms that support and nurture creative talents in Saudi Arabia. Her initiatives are designed to inspire innovation, foster collaboration, and promote cultural expression. Through her leadership, Noura continues to drive the growth of a vibrant creative community, making a significant impact on the creative landscape of the region.
OUR FOUNDER - Olga Balakleets
Internationally celebrated as an award-winning concert pianist and a dynamic entrepreneur, Olga Balakleets stands at the forefront of global cultural and philanthropic initiatives. She leads Venus Global Events, a London-based international events company renowned for orchestrating distinguished cultural and philanthropic projects worldwide. Olga’s leadership also extends to the sports and youth development sectors. She holds a position on the steering committee of Football for Peace (FfP), a notable organization patronized by eminent figures such as Pope Francis, HRH the Prince of Wales, and HRH Prince Albert of Monaco. Furthermore, she serves on the Board of Directors of Nicosia Young Ballet and has been welcomed as the Head of the International Department of SIFFA, an organization dedicated to the international advocacy of female football. A recognized voice in female entrepreneurship, Olga frequently graces international conferences as a speaker and makes notable appearances on global TV channels, providing valuable insights into cultural and philanthropic discussions. Her writings, focused on similar themes, have been published in several international publications. In recognition of her exemplary services, Olga has received various prestigious accolades, including the St. Prince Dmitry Donskoi and St. Sergey Radonezhsky Order, a Medal from “Giornale della Danza,” “The Business Woman of the Year Award,” “The Inspirational Award” at the First Feminine Capital Forum, and most notably, the Pushkin Medal. Olga’s expertise extends to governmental advisory roles, where she contributes to the development and refinement of various nations’ cultural and philanthropic programs. In 2016, she founded the Creative Women International Platform, which has since established a strong presence in over 50 countries. This platform is not merely a network but a vibrant community that organizes an annual conference, among other prolific activities, all aimed at championing and nurturing successful female entrepreneurs who integrate creativity into their business practices.
OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR - Rebeca Riofrio
Rebeca Riofrio is a British-Ecuadorian entrepreneur, cultural leader, and international advocate for women’s empowerment. With over 24 years of experience in the creative industries, education, and global business, she serves as Executive Director of the Creative Women Forum Saudi Arabia and as Marketing Manager for Anglia Ruskin University London. Rebeca is also the Chair of the UK Parliamentary Society for Arts, Fashion, and Sports and founder of Art in Fusion TV.
Throughout her distinguished career, Rebeca has received numerous accolades, including the Queen’s Award for Business and Enterprise, the Queen’s Award for International Trade, the Big Ben Award, the Woman of the Year Award 2023, and the Olive Tree Award from Malta. Her work bridges international collaboration, leadership, and social impact—continuing to inspire future generations of changemakers around the world.