SIBF Where in the World: FIC Tunisia & Malta

The 2023 Fellows' International Conference (FIC) was a remarkable event that brought together more than 30 attendees of SIBF to explore the nations of Tunisia and Malta. Attendees engaged in thought-provoking discussions and presentations. Notable sessions included a talk by Youssef Cherif, Director of Columbia Global Centers, Tunis, on the modern history of Tunisia, and a panel discussion on business in Tunisia moderated by Neda Barqawi (GA, ’15), featuring industry experts such as MELA member Amine Chouaieb, CEO of Chifco, and Leila Triki, Dean of the Southern Mediterranean School of Business (SMU). Attendees engaged with business students from SMU and heard from prominent businessman Slim Bouzguenda. Slim and his lovely wife Molka hosted a reception in their stunning home in Tunis with a Who’s Who guest list of Tunisian business and cultural leaders. One of the highlights of the program was a captivating discussion with The Honorable Lawrence Gonzi, Former Prime Minister of Malta. His presence added a significant dimension to the event, providing unique and frank insights into Malta's transition into the European Union, the 2011 Libyan Crisis, and the 2007-08 financial crisis which Malta not only survived but which laid the foundation for years of economic prosperity. The group explored the picturesque destinations of Sidi Bou Said, the Medina of Tunis, and Carthage in Tunisia, as well as a fascinating tour of Valletta and the historic Mdina in Malta. This FIC successfully combined intellectual discourse, cultural immersion, and networking opportunities, leaving attendees with lasting memories and valuable connections.