I was privileged to be invited to the unveiling of the results of the Second Annual Asda'a Buson-Marsteller Arab Youth Survey on March 7, 2010 at The Address Hotel. The survey looked into attitudes to the financial crisis, technology, media consumption, social media networking, travel attitudes, spending habits, brand perceptions, education and future expectations.

I will not go into the details of the survey findings, but would rather focus on some of the surprising elements. It is, however, worth noting that a rather distinguished panel was present to discuss the findings:

• HE Ms Najla Al Awadi (UAE FNC Member, Deputy CEO of DMI)
• Abdul Rahman Al Rashed (General Manager, Al Arabiya Television)
• Mustafa Abdel-Wadood (Managing Director, Abraaj Capital)
• Sultan Sooud Al Qassemi (Chariman of Young Arab Leaders, UAE Chapter and Media Columnist)
• Lubna Qassim (Lawyer and Legal Reform Specialist)
• Ali Mostafa (Independent Film Maker)

Everyone seemed upbeat. Everyone put on a brave face and lauded how great it was to have the Arab Youth so optimistic about the future. There were even those who believed that Arab youths had every right to be optimistic, giving an example of the oil wealth the GCC has.