As part of its ongoing mission to empower youth, celebrate creativity, and promote wellness across the community, Gulf Bank proudly sponsored the Kilmitain Forum, held from November 6 to 8 at Al Andalus Complex. The event gathered Kuwait’s leading marketing, communications, and creative professionals to discuss the future of innovation and local talent — values that lie at the heart of Gulf Bank’s brand philosophy.

During the forum, Mrs. Najla Aleisa, Chief Marketing Officer at Gulf Bank, participated in a thought-provoking panel discussion alongside prominent industry figures. The discussion explored the evolving role of local talent, SMEs, and creative entrepreneurs in shaping Kuwait’s marketing landscape and strengthening the connection between brands and communities.

“At Gulf Bank, we see marketing as a platform to empower — not just to promote,” said Aleisa. “We’ve made it part of our DNA to collaborate with small businesses, young creatives, and local production teams. Every campaign we produce carries a Kuwaiti fingerprint — from the directors and designers to the photographers and storytellers behind the scenes.”

Gulf Bank’s initiatives continue to demonstrate its long-standing commitment to empowering the local community — from transforming billboard materials into eco-friendly tote bags in collaboration with IBRAH, a local tailor brand founded and managed by Shahad AlSabeeh, a young Kuwaiti entrepreneur, to sponsoring youth-focused programs such as LOYAC’s The Influencer, AlMoather, and Derasti Expo.

“These initiatives are not one-off projects,” Aleisa added. “They reflect a national responsibility — a belief that progress is built through the creativity and ambition of our youth. Supporting local talent strengthens our brand’s authenticity and deepens our connection with the community we proudly serve.”

In addition to its panel participation, Gulf Bank hosted its sales team during the three-day forum to help visitors register for the upcoming Gulf Bank 642 Marathon, Kuwait’s premier sporting event that celebrates fitness, health, and community spirit. To amplify engagement, the Bank also organized a flashmob on Friday, November 7, which turned Al Andalus Complex into a vibrant hub of energy and excitement — encouraging visitors to sign up for the marathon and embrace an active, healthy lifestyle.

“Through the Gulf Bank 642 Marathon, we aim to raise health awareness across Kuwait and provide a platform for athletes and everyday fitness enthusiasts alike,” said Aleisa. “We’re proud to see this initiative grow year after year, reflecting our belief that a strong nation begins with a healthy, motivated community.”

Earlier that week, on Tuesday, November 4, Aleisa led a three-hour interactive workshop on brand storytelling at Gulf University for Science and Technology (GUST) in collaboration with Kilmitain. The workshop brought together aspiring Kuwaiti entrepreneurs eager to learn how to craft meaningful brand narratives that resonate emotionally with audiences.

“Storytelling is at the heart of every successful brand,” Aleisa told participants. “It’s what transforms a product into a purpose and a transaction into a relationship. The creativity, curiosity, and ambition I witnessed from Kuwait’s young entrepreneurs were truly inspiring.”

She also discussed the creative and operational challenges that come with working directly with emerging talents and startups, noting that flexibility, mentorship, and structure are key to developing meaningful collaborations.

“We’ve seen a clear shift in consumer behavior — Kuwaiti consumers are increasingly loyal to brands that champion local talent, authenticity, and social responsibility,” she added.

Through its sponsorship of the Kilmitain Forum, and its activation around the Gulf Bank 642 Marathon, Gulf Bank reaffirmed its belief in creativity, innovation, health, and the limitless potential of Kuwaiti youth. The Bank continues to empower the next generation of creators, innovators, and entrepreneurs — a mission that lies at the heart of its purpose to drive progress and prosperity for Kuwait.

About Gulf Bank

Gulf Bank is one of Kuwait’s leading financial institutions, committed to driving innovation, sustainability, and social impact. Through its strategic focus on youth empowerment, support for SMEs, and active engagement in the creative and wellness sectors, Gulf Bank continues to strengthen its role as a catalyst for national growth and inspiration.