By Elyazid Alami, Founder of MLS Morocco
At twenty two, I was completely lost. I had finished my studies without a clear vision of what I wanted to do or who I wanted to become. Like many young Moroccans, I wanted to learn, grow, and connect with others who shared the same drive. Yet every opportunity I found was far from my city, Meknès. I had to travel hours just to attend a workshop or event that could inspire me. That experience made me realize something simple but powerful: if the space I needed did not exist, I would have to create it.
That is how the Moroccan Leadership Seminar was born in 2022. I wanted to create a free initiative that would help young Moroccans develop leadership skills, gain clarity on their vision, and believe in their potential. What started as a small local event has now grown into a movement. Over three editions and six major events, MLS has reached more than three thousand students and young professionals across Morocco. We have partnered with universities such as UMI, USMBA, and AUI, and collaborated with inspiring speakers, trainers, and institutions who share the same mission of empowering the next generation of leaders.
The purpose of MLS has always been to make learning, self discovery, and leadership development accessible to everyone, regardless of where they come from. One story that has stayed with me is that of a father and son who attended our very first event in Meknès. The father told me that he had always tried to find opportunities for his son to learn and grow, but could never find anything nearby. He said that MLS gave his son an experience that changed how he saw his future. Since that day, they have attended every edition. Encounters like this remind me that what we do goes far beyond events; it creates possibilities that did not exist before.
Leading MLS between 2022 and 2025 has changed me profoundly. I learned to lead high performing teams, manage pressure, and turn ideas into well structured programs. My background in Human Resources Development and my fellowship experience in the United States helped me design learning journeys that are not only inspiring but also practical and measurable. The proudest moment of my journey was when my team surprised me with a Best Leader trophy during our last event. It reminded me that leadership is not about position; it is about serving others and lifting them higher.
What keeps me going is my why. I remember the version of myself who was lost and searching for guidance. I do not want others to go through that same confusion. I want every young person to have a space where they can learn to lead, find their voice, and build confidence in their potential. My long term vision is to make MLS accessible to every university and every high school, and to establish Quest Clubs where leadership development continues all year round.
For me, MLS is more than a project. It is a movement that helps young Moroccans become the kind of leaders our country needs—curious, capable, and driven by purpose.