The evening opened with welcoming remarks from Mr. Douglas Hurst, Chair of the Current Events Committee, who set the tone by underscoring the significance of the event in shaping the future direction of the Chamber. He emphasized that Election Night is not only a time for selecting new leadership but also an opportunity to reflect on the Chamber’s journey and renew its vision for the year ahead. Hurst also took a moment to express appreciation to outgoing Board Members and the dedicated sponsors who made the evening possible, highlighting the spirit of support that fuels AmCham’s mission.
AmCham Kuwait proudly recognized its event sponsors during the evening. Platinum Sponsor Kuwait Resources House (KRH), represented by Mr. Mohammad Al-Muaili, was introduced following a short video presentation showcasing the company’s contributions and ongoing collaboration with the Chamber. Mr. Al-Muaili also delivered brief remarks, reflecting on the importance of private sector engagement in supporting institutional development. Recognition was also extended to Silver Sponsor Saudi Arabian Chevron, with representation from AmCham Board Member Mr. Jody Mangus, and IFA International Travel & Tourism, represented by Mr. Ayman Sawires, who serves as AmCham Kuwait’s official Travel and Tourism Partner.
As part of the evening’s formal proceedings, two outgoing Board Members were honored for their exceptional service and dedication. Ms. Ola Saab was recognized for her instrumental role in elevating the Chamber’s events portfolio, while Mr. Jody Mangus was commended for three years of strategic leadership that enhanced both governance structures and sponsor relations. Vice-Chair Dr. Arezou Harraf joined Mr. Hurst on stage to present tokens of appreciation to both members, followed by a group photo and a celebratory dinner break.
Dr. Harraf, who also serves as Chair of the Nominations & Elections Committee, later returned to the stage to introduce the candidates for the 2025 Board Elections and to explain the digital voting process facilitated through the secure ElectionBuddy platform. She noted that the new system ensured transparency and fairness, with voting weights aligned to membership categories to promote equitable representation.
Candidates running for seats included prominent professionals from a variety of sectors. In Category 1A – American Companies, candidates were Rt. Brig. Gen. Musaed Al-Hawli, Managing Director at Boeing; Mohammad Al Ali, Managing Director of BRINKS; and Mhanna Arawi, Senior Regional Sales Manager at Honeywell. In Category 1B – Non-American Companies, Mohammad Al-Muaili, CEO of Kuwait Resources House, stood for election. For the Individual Member seat, the candidates were Aminah Abotalaf, President of CFA Society Kuwait; Dr. Fadi Jawad, CEO of Eurotech; and Seneca Cottom, Head of Sustainability at Alshaya Group. Members were encouraged to review candidate profiles thoroughly before casting their votes.
After the voting session, AmCham Kuwait’s Executive Director, Ms. Paola de la Roche, delivered a spotlight presentation on the Chamber’s membership benefits. She highlighted the unique advantages offered at each membership level, from Chairman’s Club and Corporate to Small Enterprise and Individual tiers—including exclusive networking opportunities, brand promotion, thought leadership engagement, and access to U.S. and Kuwait-focused business insights.
To cap off the evening, guests enjoyed a dynamic raffle segment featuring an exciting lineup of prizes generously donated by AmCham’s sponsors. Attendees were thrilled to win luxury and lifestyle gifts, including a beauty set from Boots, dining vouchers from Crowne Plaza Kuwait, nail service vouchers from Eden Salon & Spa, wellness and skincare sessions from Hadi Clinic, and dining experiences from Hilton Garden Inn Kuwait. Additional prizes included weekend stays and themed dinner experiences at Holiday Inn & Suites Salmiya, a suite stay and dinner for two at Hyatt Regency Al Kout Mall, and luxury handbags from NEXT.
AmCham Kuwait extends its heartfelt thanks to all members, sponsors, and candidates who contributed to the success of the 2025 Election Night. The newly elected Board of Directors will be officially announced upon the close and verification of the voting process. The Chamber looks forward to a new chapter of leadership and continued growth in service to the American business community in Kuwait.
The results of the election were the following:
Category 1A – American Companies:
-Rt. Brig. Gen. Musaed Al-Hawli, Managing Director at Boeing
-Mohammad Al Ali, Managing Director of BRINKS
-Mhanna Arawi, Senior Regional Sales Manager at Honeywell
Category 1B – Non-American Companies:
-Mohammad Al-Muaili, CEO of Kuwait Resources House
Individual Member:
-Aminah Abotalaf, President of CFA Society Kuwait
About ABCK-AmCham Kuwait
A non-profit organization operating since 1985, composed of Fortune 500 corporations, small and medium-sized companies, and prominent business leaders and entrepreneurs, both American and Kuwaiti. ABCK-AmCham Kuwait has acted as an advocate for American interests in Kuwait. For more information, please visit our website at www.amchamkuwait.org or follow us on our social media channel @abck1985.
