Social Responsibility 2016

CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY 2016

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CSR 2016 EnCC.indd 2 3/3/17 7:02 PM Introduction 2 Youth 4 Education 14 Community Service 32 Health and Fitness 46

CSR 2016 EnCC.indd 1 3/3/17 7:02 PM CSR 2016 GULF BANK CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY PROGRAM WINS AWARDS FROM ARABIAN BUSINESS MAGAZINE AND GUST UNIVERSITY

Corporate social responsibility forms To address one of the main strategic an important component of Gulf challenges facing our country and Bank’s mission and goals. The Bank the region, Gulf Bank is committed to was founded in the heart of Kuwait supporting and sponsoring a number in 1961, and its CSR program aims of educational and entrepreneurial to give back to the very community programs for youth. The key from which it was founded. This sponsorships in this area include our CSR report provides an account of ongoing support for INJAZ – Kuwait the most notable and important to deliver educational and sponsorships undertaken by the entrepreneurial skills training Bank for the benefit of our beloved programs for high school and Kuwait and its people. university students. The Bank’s graduate development program In 2016, the Bank was awarded the ‘Ajyal’ is also widely recognized for ‘Special CSR Award - Kuwait’ for its its training program to develop overall CSR program from the well- holisitic bankers for the benefit of known Arabian Business Magazine. both the Bank and Kuwait. The Bank We were also recognized for our also sponsored several other contributions to education and educational related activities culture by winning the ‘Al-Shakoor throughout the year. Lifetime Achievement Award’ from Gulf University of Science and The Bank also believes it is critical Technology (GUST). Gulf Bank’s CSR to support events related to gender programs cover a specific range parity and the empowerment of of areas we believe to be of great women, as it is a key global and local importance to the future of our challenge. In May, we organized the country. ‘Women in the Corporate World’

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conference which raised awareness GulfBank also believes in the importance of the gender diversity and key issues of supporting and promoting Kuwait’s facing women in the workplace. traditions and heritage through its The successful event culminated community service program of events. in a pledge of support for working Each year the Bank sponsors the women in Kuwait. ‘Memorial Pearl Diving Journey’ which As our country has a high rate is a tribute to Kuwait’s cultural and of obesity and diabetes, we are economic heritage and aims to teach committed to holding and sponsoring the younger generation about the a number of health and fitness lives of their ancestors. The Bank also related events and activities. This hold a series of activities and events in year was our second year holding Ramadan to engage with the community the ‘Gulf Bank 642 Marathon’ and and support our traditions. it was an unprecedented success. This run/walk event appeals to all We would like to thank our valued ages group and fitness levels and partners in these events, as well as is the only such accredited event members of the Gulf Bank family in Kuwait. We partnered with the who are always ready to volunteer UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) to their time to ensure our events are raise awareness of the plight of successful. Together we are making refugees. Other important fitness a difference and helping to build and health activities rounded out our a brighter future for Kuwait’s next sponsorship program in this area. generations.

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CSR 2016 EnCC.indd 5 3/3/17 7:03 PM CSR 2016 GULF BANK SUPPORTS BENCHMARK FORUM 2016 Bringing Together Creative Minds

Gulf Bank was pleased to support the that may guide them down the road of Benchmark Forum 2016 - The Third development and success. The event Annual Design Entrepreneurship was free of charge. Forum organized by YourAOK. The Benchmark is a non-profit event Benchmark Forum took place at Al that aimed to educate designers Shaheed Park on 12 – 13 February 2016, and creative professionals by with an agenda full of activities that providing them with a merging skill- informed and inspired entrepreneurs set between design and business. and designers. The agenda included lectures Benchmark Forum brought together by professionals in the industry, innovative business minds and creative mentorships programs for designers designers to share their experience wanting to open their own design and inspire young entrepreneurs and businesses, an online marketplace to provide them with the mentorship will be displayed and sold on behalf

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of the designers (youraok.net). digital portfolios allowing clients to easily browse through profiles YourAOK is a networking platform and visual works to hire artists, that brings together creative photographers or designers. YourAOK professionals, design firms, and aims to provide Kuwaiti youth with the product suppliers together. It offers skill-set required to create their own them a multimedia platform with feasible business.

CSR 2016 EnCC.indd 7 3/3/17 7:03 PM CSR 2016 GULF BANK: GOLD SPONSOR OF FIKRA PROGRAM Transforming Ideas Into Business Projects

Gulf Bank was a Gold sponsor intensive entrepreneurship training of Fikra Program that works to that provides aspiring entrepreneurs empower a new generation of with the technical skills and business entrepreneurs. The program seeks knowledge needed to launch their to encourage young Kuwaitis to turn own businesses such as leadership their business ideas from mere skills, comprehensive business plan, thoughts into viable well-designed investment opportunities and others. business plans and connect them After they successfully go through with potential investors. the training sessions they pitch The main goal of Fikra Program is their ideas to potential investors in to empower a new generation of the hopes of having their businesses entrepreneurs to develop successful funded. The first edition of the businesses and advance the local program resulted in establishing Kuwaiti market. Youth apply to the 33% of businesses, while 44% are program and are selected based still in the negotiation phase with on a number of criteria. It is an investors.

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CSR 2016 EnCC.indd 9 3/3/17 7:03 PM CSR 2016 GULF BANK GOLD SPONSOR OF THE KUWAIT ECONOMIC SOCIETY’S INTENSIVE YOUTH FINANCIAL TRAINING INITIATIVE

Gulf Bank was a gold sponsor of was to prepare youth for successful the Kuwait Economic Society’s first careers, develop talent, as well as youth financial training initiative. exchange experiences and improve The program, ‘Investing in Our Youth teamwork. is Unique’ under the broader theme This program was comprised of a series of ‘Our Gulf Deserves,’ trained youth of practical and consultative sessions in the fields of investment, financial over a period of seven months. Three stock trading, as well as technical different classes of students have and news analysis. participated in the intensive investment This unique investment development training program. Participants were program was for college students who appraised on qualitative and quantitative were enrolled in their third or fourth evaluations; they were given a trial year of study in the fields of finance, account of $50,000 to engage in accounting, business management, simulated trading. Those who excelled economics,and industrial engineering. in the program and trading were then Additionally, recent graduates in these selected to move onto a regional trading fields were also eligible to apply to the simulation exercise. Forty participants program. The objective of this initiative were selected from Kuwait and those

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that excelled were awarded with a trip where they shared their experiences and enhanced their skills.

Each training session culminated in a forum measured the participants’ performance and awarded the top performers. The first forum was conducted in January and focused on ways to invest in financial markets, with a focus on how to minimize risk. The second forum was conducted in February and explored investment opportunities to support youth in international markets. The third forum recently concluded and shed light on investment strategies in financial markets.

Kuwait Economic Society was founded in 1970 as a civil society institution and partner in the economic development process of the country. The Kuwait Economic Society works on reforming policies of the state, improving the competitiveness and transparency of the Kuwaiti economy. It also offers consulting, economic services, in addition to financial studies for public and private sectors. The Society also promotes cultural and economic on the role of human capital in the awareness among members of the development of civil society activities, society, and enables generations of particularly in the economic and business professionals with the skills financial fields; it also builds bridges to build a knowledge-based society. The with the international institutions and Kuwait Economic Society also focuses economic organizations.

CSR 2016 EnCC.indd 11 3/3/17 7:04 PM CSR 2016 GULF BANK SPONSORS THE KUWAIT PAVILION AT THE VENICE BIENNALE Kuwait Curates GCC Effort at its Pavilion

Gulf Bank was pleased to be a lead This was Kuwait’s third participation sponsor of the Kuwait Pavilion at the 15th in the event and in an unprecedented International Architecture Exhibition step included national participation — La Biennale di Venezia, kicked off from the Gulf at its Pavilion. Kuwait’s 28 May and ran until 27 November representation responded to the 2016. Kuwait’s participation in the announced theme by designing new Venice Biennale was commissioned frontiers of dialogue and exchange, and organized by the National Council which suggest that the frontline of for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL). architecture is in imagining a future collectivity that reclaims undivided The prestigious art event took place seascapes and vital community, under the patronage of H.E. Sheikh while recognizing the urgency of Salman Al Humood, Minister of architectural practices. The exhibition Information – Kuwait; H.E. Sheikh was commissioned by Zahra Ali Baba Ali Al Khaled Al Sabah, Ambassador from NCCAL and the curators are of Kuwait to Italy; H.E. Sheikha Mai Hamed BuKhamseen of Kuwait and Al Khalifa, Minister of Culture – Ali Karimi from Bahrain. Bahrain; H.E. Sheikh Nuhayan Al Nuhayan, Minister of Culture – UAE; Titled ‘Between East and West: A and Mr Paolo Baratta, President of Gulf’, the Kuwait Pavilion looked La Biennale in Italy. past Kuwait’s borders to those

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of contested hydrography of the The Pavilion, located in the Arabian Gulf and proposes new ideas. Arsenale, featured a catalog of It provided a platform for dialogue over three hundred islands in the and creative artistic network from Gulf, elaborating on their histories across the Gulf region, focusing and character. In addition to this compilation, the Pavilion on the young generation and their featured design proposals for a creative design, architecture and selection of these islands, made planning ideas that push forward from young and established the old conception of reality by architectural practices in the imagining a prospective future; region, highlighting how a master the waterscape of the Gulf and the plan could be implemented across scattered islands as connecting these contested waters. elements across different cultures, languages, and beliefs.

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CSR 2016 EnCC.indd 15 3/3/17 7:04 PM CSR 2016 GULF BANK IS PROUD TO SPONSOR INJAZ- KUWAIT Gulf Bank Receives Company Volunteer Award

Gulf Bank is proud of its continuing entrepreneurial and leadership skills lead sponsorship of INJAZ- Kuwait, to high school and university students a non profit and non-governmental in Kuwait. organization that delivers educational INJAZ connect corporate volunteers programs on entrepreneurial and with their programs and Gulf Bank leadership skills to help youth build employees from various departments successful careers. The programs are and backgrounds have enjoyed designed to narrow social inequities, volunteering their time to train, mentor, encourage social engagement, foster and encourage students. Volunteers, creativity, and develop generations of who are undergo an orientation and highly skilled individuals. training before they start their sessions, INJAZ forms part of the global network serve as real-world role models for the of Junior Achievement worldwide. students. By sharing their knowledge and experiences they help further the Through strategic partnerships with students’ learning. Kuwait’s business and education sectors, and with the help of qualified Gulf Bank was also honoured by and dedicated volunteers, INJAZ INJAZ Kuwait for providing the delivers both Arabic and English second-highest number of company language educational programs on volunteers. Gulf Bank has been a long-

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time partner and supporter of INJAZ, and will continue its investment in youth education and entrepreneurial programs.

CSR 2016 EnCC.indd 17 3/3/17 7:04 PM CSR 2016 AJYAL SHAPING THE FUTURE OF BANKING Gulf Bank’s Graduate Development Program

Gulf Bank launched its graduate showcased the Bank’s commitment to development program in late 2014, providing opportunities for its young as part of its leadership development Kuwaiti employees, and building a and succession planning initiative. large cadre of Kuwaiti bankers for Ajyal (Generations) is a customized the benefit of both the Bank and training program delivered in Kuwait. The event kicked off with a cooperation with the Institute of welcome ceremony and entrance Banking Studies (IBS), to develop of the graduates. Following a short Kuwaiti employees with 1 to 3 years documentary video presentation experience with the Bank to become about the program, the program’s holistic bankers. new logo was unveiled, followed by Gulf Bank proudly held a graduation remarks from Gulf Bank’s Senior ceremony for the graduates of Executives, and then testimonies from its Ajyal - Graduate Development top graduates. Two top performers in Program on 9 November 2016 each class were also honored. at the Jumeirah Messilah Beach The selection process for the Ajyal Hotel. The event was organized to is as follows: Kuwaiti employees celebrate the "Ajyal 1" and "Ajyal who have worked at the Bank for no 2" graduates upon successful less than one year, but no more than completion of the program in 2015 three years can apply online. After and 2016 respectively. the initial screening, the candidates The ceremony was to celebrate the must successfully complete a series successful graduates and recognize of assessment tests, starting with the program’s high achievers. It also language proficiencies, followed

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by numerical and analytical ability, challenging mindsets, creating self psychometrics, and group discussions. awareness, and building character. Each stage of selection is based A 2-day navigation workshop is on elimination and only those who also conducted to help employees successfully complete each stage identify their strengths and values. advance onwards. The final step is an Following this, exams take place. interview with a panel of Gulf Bank Local field training, and then an executives. international assignment follow. During the program trainees are The program begins with modules assigned a mentor who is a Senior of classroom learning and these Executive of the Bank, which helps form the main part of the training. them gain a better understanding of These sessions take place over the workplace and the industry. The the course of seven-months and trainees then graduate are placed in include insights from distinguished different departments in the Bank, international and local faculty. Then, based on their personal preferences a 3-day boot camp course focuses on and the Bank’s needs.

CSR 2016 EnCC.indd 19 3/3/17 7:04 PM CSR 2016 GULF BANK: GOLD SPONSOR OF THE 33rd NUKS – USA CONFERENCE

Gulf Bank was glad to be the gold The conference’s opening ceremony sponsor of the 33rd National Union started with a speech by HE Sheikh of Kuwaiti Students (NUKS) USA Salem Abdullah Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, conference, the largest annual Kuwait’s Ambassador to the USA, to gathering of Kuwaitis outside Kuwait. encourage and motivate the students. Entitled “A Conscientious Generation At the event, there was a night show, for an Everlasting Nation,” the sponsored by Gulf Bank, where ‘The conference was attended by around Concert’ performed. This popular 4000 Kuwaitis and was held under musical group includes a member of the Patronage of HE Dr. Bader Al- the Gulf Bank family. In addition, Gulf Essa, the Minister of Education and Bank conducted the always popular Higher Education. and exciting raffle with cash prizes during the show. The conference opened on 24 November 2016 at the Marriott The second day marked a series Marquis in San Francisco, California. of workshops and lectures where

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Gulf Bank showcased its strong area which appealed to hundreds of commitment to Kuwaiti youth by students. having a large booth in the career fair

CSR 2016 EnCC.indd 21 3/3/17 7:04 PM CSR 2016 GULF BANK SPONSORS THE FIRST AMIDEAST INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION WEEK SEMINAR Educational, Entrepreneurial, and Volunteer Opportunities for Youth Empowerment

Gulf Bank is pleased to have sponsored were: the Ministry of State for Youth the first International Education Week Affairs, U.S. Embassy, KAFO (Kuwait’s seminar event by AMIDEAST, which Achievers for Future Opportunities), was held on 15 November 2016 at the LOYAC, INJAZ, AIESEC (Activating the Marina Crescent Hotel in Salmiya. Leadership Potential of Young People), The seminar, entitled “Educational, Spread the Passion, The Protégés, Entrepreneurial and Volunteer Let’s Help Kuwait, The Training Gate, Opportunities for Youth Empowerment”, in addition to youth alumni who have aimed at enabling representatives graduated from US State Department- from different youth institutions to funded programs. identify available opportunities and options for Kuwaiti youth to enhance AMIDEAST is leading American non- their skills and achieve more for profit organization engaged in themselves, their families, and their international education, training and community. development activities in the MENA The seminar was open to the public region. AMIDEAST established and hosted over 150 guests comprised operations in Kuwait in 1992, and has of students and professionals from since offered educational opportunities various fields and backgrounds. to over 50,000 students. Amongst the other entities and institutions that took part of this event

CSR 2016 EnCC.indd 22 3/3/17 7:05 PM CSR 2016 GULF BANK VISITS MISHREF ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Gulf Bank representatives visited the the concept of savings, savings Mishref Elementary School to raise accounts, and the advantages of awareness about basic finances. The using an ATM Card. Gifts were also kids were given a broad overview of presented to the students in the banking and the work of Gulf Bank. second, third and fourth grade. Gulf Bank representatives discussed

CSR 2016 EnCC.indd 23 3/3/17 7:05 PM CSR 2016 GULF BANK SPONSORS AL- BAYAN BILINGUAL SCHOOL’S K-12 ART SHOW

Gulf Bank concluded its silver Gulf Bank continues to be strongly sponsorship of Al-Bayan Bilingual committed to supporting youth and School (BBS) Art Show 2016-2015, educational initiatives, and doing which took place at the school’s its part to help empower the next campus from 10-12 April 2016. generation. The Al-Bayan Bilingual School was established in 1977 Students, their families and members as the first bilingual school in the of the school’s faculty attended the Arabian Gulf area. BBS was created opening ceremony. The Annual K-12 with a vision to prepare students for Art Show showcased art by students effective participation and leadership from all grades which are selected by in the overall development of Kuwait BBS’s art teachers who judge the art and the rapidly changing world. according to certain criteria depending on the grade level of the submitted art.

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CSR 2016 EnCC.indd 25 3/3/17 7:05 PM CSR 2016 GULF BANK SUPPORTS AL-BAYAN BILINGUAL SCHOOL STUDENTS COMPETING AT THE ANNUAL HARVARD SPEECH AND DEBATE SHOWCASE

Gulf Bank was proud to support a group of Al-Bayan Bilingual School (BBS) high-school students who took part in the 42nd Annual Harvard Speech and Debate Showcase tournament in Boston, Massachusetts. Upon their return Gulf Bank participated in a recognition ceremony for the students.

This group of 17 BBS students were the competed in two, one taking place at only Middle Eastern and Kuwaiti team to participate in the 2016 event (Annual the University Al Akhawayn University Harvard National Forensics Tournament). in Ifrane, Morocco in March 2015. This There were six competitions at the event: tournament takes place under the Lincoln Douglas Debate; Dramatic umbrella of the National Speech and Interpretation; Humorous Interpretation; Debate Association in the US. It is the International Extemporaneous Speaking; Duo Interpretation; and Original Oratory. largest interschool speech and debate Speech and debate is an academic organization serving middle and high activity typically available to students school students, as well as university in middle school, high school, and/or students. college. Speech and debate activities are challenging, competitive in nature, The Al-Bayan Bilingual School was and require regular practice, coaching, established in 1977 as the first dedication, and hard work. bilingual school in the Arabian Gulf The speech and debate team was area. BBS was created with a vision founded in the fall of 2013 by Ms. Christina to prepare students for effective McDade, Ms. Francine Camerini and participation and leadership in the Ms. Candice Warzecha with less than 10 students. Since then, BBS has overall development of Kuwait and hosted three local tournaments and the rapidly changing world.

CSR 2016 EnCC.indd 26 3/3/17 7:05 PM CSR 2016 GULF BANK SPONSORS KUWAIT UNIVERSITY’S ACCOUNTING CLUB ACTIVITIES DURING ACCOUNTING WEEK 2016

Gulf Bank sponsored Kuwait Youth development is a key pillar of Gulf University’s (KU) College of Business Bank’s corporate social responsibility Administration’s Accounting Club’s program and the commitment to reach activities during Accounting Week, which out to young people has always been a was held between 3 - 7 April 2016. priority. The Bank frequently partners The club’s activities were conducted with organizations with similar goals on the university’s campus under the to provide the support students need patronage of HH Sheikha Al-Zain S. Al- during their education. Sabah, Undersecretary of the Ministry Gulf Bank has a dedicated ‘redTM’ bank of State for Youth Affairs. account which is designed to meet The activities, which were designed the needs of university and college to raise students’ knowledge of students aged from 15 to 25. Opening accountancy, included seminars and the account requires no minimum workshops presented by selected deposit and it can be used as an leading professionals from the banking interest earning savings account. red and financial sector, who shared their customers are also entitled to number professional experience and answered of other benefits, including monthly questions and queries. cash draws and quarterly car draws.

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As part of its commitment to supporting female and male students from the youth and education, Gulf Bank was College of Law. Approximately 700 law proud to sponsor a number of events students and their families participated held by Kuwait University in 2016. in the October graduation ceremony. These included graduation ceremonies The College of Law includes four and forums. academic departments: Criminal Law, The Bank was pleased to sponsor International Law, Private Law, and the graduation ceremonies for the Public Law.

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The Bank also sponsored the Faculty Belonging’ held by the College of Allied Health Sciences graduation of Social Sciences and under the ceremony. Graduates of the Kuwait auspices of Lieutenant General University health sciences program Suleiman Al Fahad, Undersecretary help to meet the growing need for – Ministry of Interior. The forum locally-trained staff to join the medical focused on issues of citizenship, workforce. belonging, and loyalty. Gulf Bank Additionally, the Bank was proud staff also participated in workshops to sponsor and participate in the addressing the topics such as: loans, third annual forum on ‘Citizenship legal penalties, and issues related to and Consolidation of Loyalty and terrorism financing.

CSR 2016 EnCC.indd 29 3/3/17 7:05 PM CSR 2016 GULF BANK HOSTS CARMEL SCHOOL Educational Trip to Help Students Understand More About Banking

Gulf Bank was pleased to host a group how these job functions complement of 35 students, grades 8 and 9, from each other as well as how together The Carmel School. The students they make the branch function. The visited Gulf Bank’s Farwaniya Branch-2. students shadowed Gulf Bank This educational trip helped them employees in the following functions: understand how banks function and Customer Service Representative, what services are provided. Relationship Officer, Head Teller, Assistant Operations Manager, The students were given a well-rounded Operations Manager, and the Branch view of different jobs function and Manager.

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The employees also explained: the This trip was one in an ongoing series different types of Gulf Bank accounts, of student visits that the various branches how to use an ATM machine, as well of the Bank conduct for schools located as how to use the Bank’s new interactive in their areas. teller machines. Students were also trained on how to spot counterfeit currency.

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CSR 2016 EnCC.indd 33 3/3/17 7:06 PM CSR 2016 GULF BANK SPONSORS THE 28th MEMORIAL JOURNEY FOR PEARL DIVING

Gulf Bank successfully concluded who was representing HH the Amir, its platinum sponsorship of the 28th along with local dignitaries, ministry Memorial Journey for Pearl Diving, representatives, Gulf Bank senior The journey, which lasted between management representatives and 28 July – 4 August, is organized each friends, families and relatives of the year by the Committee of the Marine young sailors. Heritage of the Kuwait Sea Sport Club, under the Patronage of His The delegation welcomed back and Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al- honoured the young Kuwaiti divers Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. and the captains of the dhows, who were upholding the traditional legacy The closing ceremony known as ‘Youm of Kuwait and helping to perpetuate Al-Quffal’, the traditional Kuwaiti term the memory of the long and used to welcome home sailors from dangerous journeys Kuwait sailors long voyages, was held on Thursday, took to find pearls each year. The 4 August, 2016. The ceremony was sound of traditional Kuwaiti tunes attended by Sheikh Salman Al-Homoud played by a local folkloric group Al-Sabah, Minister of Information and enchanted the crowds as the divers Minister of State for Youth Affairs, showcased the pearls and shells

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they had collected during their trip. Recreating a journey each year helps to remind young Kuwaiti generations The Pearl Diving Memorial Journey is of the difficulties and challenges one of the initiatives that Gulf bank faced by their forefathers in earning sponsors on an annual basis. The their living, along with a message sponsorship forms a key part of Gulf urging these generations to uphold Bank’s long-term commitment to the traditions and values their preserving the heritage and continuing ancestors developed during that time. the traditions of Kuwait’s unique past.

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Gulf Bank and Alghanim Industries Everything Kuwait. held the ‘Women in the Corporate The ‘Women in the Corporate World’ World: Beyond the Glass Ceiling’ conference included keynote addresses conference to discuss the issue of from distinguished international and ‘diversity in the workplace’ by key local speakers, such as Ms. Randi influential international, regional, and Zuckerberg, Founder and CEO of local leaders. The topic resonated with Zuckerberg Media and Author of Dot Kuwait, as the conference was well Complicated; Sheikha Al-Zain Al- attended and the audience reflected Sabah, Undersecretary at Kuwait’s a cross section of the country. It Ministry of State for Youth Affairs; was open to the public and held on and Ms. Sara Akbar, Co-Founder and Wednesday, 4 May 2016 at Jumeirah CEO of Kuwait Energy. The conference Messilah Beach Hotel, and was also featured two major discussion carried out in partnership with KIPCO, panels, the first themed ‘The Work/ and supporting partners Cadillac and Life Balance’, the second entitled ‘The

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Role Identity’. The conference was also networking platform for business people to exchange ideas on achieving success in the corporate environment. The results of a country-wide survey on key motivating factors for women in the workplace as were announced.

Mr. Omar Kutayba Alghanim, CEO of Alghanim Industries and Chairman of Gulf Bank, gave opening remarks the most pressing problems facing to the capacity crowd. Mr. Alghanim our country, our region, and our time. said: “We are happy to host the first Future generations will judge us on ‘Women in the Corporate World: the degree to which we solve it, and Beyond the Glass Ceiling’ conference it will take a lot of people working to address issues facing women in the together to solve. We need to solve this workplace. We’re talking about one of because it’s the right thing to do, and

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because its in the interest of women, time. The majority of respondents businesses, economy, society, and in were working women (83%) followed the interests of women.” by students (17%).

To highlight the issues, challenges, The majority of women indicated and motivating factor for women in their preference for jobs in the the workplace, the results of new private sector. The reasons for this nation-wide research from Alghanim were noted as: challenging work; Industries and Gulf Bank were released. room for learning and development; The survey aimed at improving possibility for career advancement; a understanding of the key motivating more healthy work environment; the factors for women in Kuwait workforce. reputation of the company; as well The survey interviewed over 2,000 as salary and benefits. Results also students and professional women in noted that 7 our 10 women noted that Kuwait and the findings were presented the top two key motivating factors to conference delegates for the first behind employment choices were:

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possibility for career progression was women who work in the public sector, the top factor in choosing employment they indicate their choice is due to followed by financial reward. For more flexible working hours.

CSR 2016 EnCC.indd 39 3/3/17 7:06 PM CSR 2016 GULF BANK IS THE GOLD SPONSOR OF THE ARAB WOMAN AWARDS – KUWAIT 2016 Bank Presented Two Awards

Gulf Bank was proud to be a Gold Sponsor of the Year and Outstanding Woman of the “Arab Woman Awards – Kuwait in Finance Categories. 2016”, which took place on Sunday, 17 April in Kuwait City under the patronage The “Arab Woman Awards was launched of HE Sheikh Mobarak Fahed Salem in 2009 with a mission to provide a Al-Sabah. Gulf Bank, represented by platform for increasing public awareness Ms. Laila Al Qatami, Assistant General of the significant achievements of Manager - Corporate Communications Arab women in various areas. The at Gulf Bank, presented awards to the nomination process began in March winners of the Best Businesswoman and a group of judges convened to select

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the winners in each category. There are 20 award categories these include: business, finance, entrepreneurship arts, literature, media, fashion design, young talent, and humanitarian causes. The awards help to raise the profile of women succeeding in these areas and provide role models and inspiration for future female leaders.

The “Arab Woman Awards” is held in several GCC countries, Kuwait, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The intention is to see the launch of the “Arab Woman Awards GCC” in 2020, which will bring together all participating counties in one large celebration of the achievements of the winners since inception.

CSR 2016 EnCC.indd 41 3/3/17 7:06 PM CSR 2016 GULF BANK CELEBRATES GIRGI’AN WITH CHILDREN OF KUWAIT

In line with its Ramadan initiatives Bank has also arranged for Girgi’an that aim to strengthen the spirit of bags to be distributed during an giving during this Holy Month, Gulf event held by Dasman Diabetes Bank brought the joy of Girgian to Institute during a fun filled festival children in Kuwait, in collaboration created for children in celebration of with Kuwait Association for the Care girgi’an. of Children in Hospitals (KAACH), Saveco and LOYAC. Additionally, Gulf Bank cooperated with LOYAC to distribute girgi’an The Bank’s staff conducted visits, bags to LOYAC summer programs over a period of five days, to a number interviewees’, children with special of hospitals such as Farwaniys, Al needs and among the underprivileged -Jahra, Ibn Sina, Al Razi, Al- Amiri children living in underdeveloped and NBK hospital. Staff engaged neighborhoods in Kuwait. with the young patients through a series of fun activities that included As a socially responsible corporation, face painting, henna, hair braiding, Gulf Bank is committed to playing games and coloring and distributed an active role in addressing all Girgian gifts and treats to each. segments of society, while ensuring that its initiatives are impactful and In collaboration with Saveco, Gulf bring about a positive change.

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CSR 2016 EnCC.indd 43 3/3/17 7:07 PM CSR 2016 GULF BANK PARTNERS WITH SAVECO AND LOYAC TO DISTRIBUTE FOODSTUFF BOXES TO FAMILIES IN NEED

On the occasion of the Holy Month of Ramadan, Gulf Bank distributed “maachla” foodstuff boxes to families in need around Kuwait. This initiative was done in partnership with Saveco and LOYAC.

The maachla boxes were assembled by Saveco and include essential food items. It was anticipated that this mix of non-perishable food items Kuwait. LOYAC was founded in 2001 would cover each family’s needs for to empower Kuwaiti youth through approximately one week. LOYAC’s unique opportunities to evolve into community service program handled highly effective human citizens. LOYAC the distribution of these boxes to offers several programs to help youth previously identified families in need. develop their professional skills, enhance their personal growth, and Saveco was established in 2013 and help them find a sense of purpose by is an all inclusive mega market in extending themselves to others.

CSR 2016 EnCC.indd 44 3/3/17 7:07 PM CSR 2016 GULF BANK PARTNERS WITH UNHCR’S ‘VOICES FOR REFUGEES’ Gulf Bank partnered with the UNHCR - The UN Refugee Agency, to raise awareness about the plight of Syrian refugees through their ‘Voices for Refugees’ campaign during its ‘Gulf Bank 642 Marathon’. The ‘Voices for Refugees’ is an online awareness and fundraising campaign being conducted by UNHCR (the United Nations Commissioner for Refugees) to stand with Syrian refuges and make their stories heard so people will keep remembering that they are human. It seeks to bring back hope to the men, women, and children who have lost everything through no fault of their own. To date there are over four million Syrian refugees and 39% are under the age of 11. More than 12 million Syrians have been forced to abandon their homes. Through this collaboration, the ‘Gulf Bank 642 Marathon’ aimed to spread awareness throughout the community and invited people to add their voices UNHCR has been protecting the in calling for continuous humanitarian rights and well-being of refuges all actions, and to stop the targeting of over the world. They have provided civilian and children in wars. vital assistance to save lives and build better futures for millions UNHCR works around the world to forced from home. Their work and ensure that everybody has the right advocacy helps transform broken to seek asylum and find safe refuge, lives by providing protection, having fled violence, persecution, shelter, access to healthcare, and war or disaster at home. Since 1950, safeguarding individuals.

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CSR 2016 EnCC.indd 47 3/3/17 7:07 PM CSR 2016 GULF BANK HOLDS RECORD BREAKING ‘GULF BANK 642 MARATHON’ Over 4,000 Participants From 100 Countries

The ‘Gulf Bank 642 Marathon’ was Olympic swimmer Ms. Faye Al- an unprecedented success with over Sultan highlighting the importance 4,000 participants and more than 100 of a healthly lifestyle and being nationalities represented in Kuwait’s active. She was happy to see such biggest walk/run event. Due to high a large turnout and further added, demand, the two longer distance the ‘Gulf Bank 642 Marathon’ is also categories (21K and 42K) were sold raising awareness of very important out days before the event, with many cause. marathon runners joining the race ‘Gulf Bank 642 Marathon’ partnered from overseas. with the UNHCR (United Nations High The event kicked off with Kuwaiti Commissioner on Refguees), also

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known as the UN Refugee Agency, remembering that they are human. and its ‘Voices for Refugees’ initiative. Its goal was to bring hope to the men, This was an online awareness and women, and children who have lost fundraising campaign to stand everything through no fault of their with Syrian refugees to make their own. You can still raise your voice for voices heard so that people will keep them and support them financially by

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going to the UNHCR Voices website. (IAAF Athletics), meaning that those races appeared in the international The ‘Gulf Bank 642 Marathon’ remains calendar of races. the only road race in Kuwait to have its longer distance race categories The 2016 marathon comprised accredited by the Association of of individuals, families, teams of International Marathons and Distance walkers and runners from various Races (AIMS) and the International backgrounds and organizations. All Association of Athletics Federations the participants took a route starting

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from Souq Sharq, to the Gulf Road, Assembly, Souk Al Mubarakiya, Gulf passing by Kuwait Towers, the Grand Bank’s head office, as well as many Mosque, Al Seif Palace, the National other landmarks.

CSR 2016 EnCC.indd 51 3/3/17 7:07 PM CSR 2016 GULF BANK WAS THE GOLD SPONSOR OF THE KUWAIT INTERNATIONAL JIU-JITSU OPEN Forging The Name of Kuwait As a Host of International Sports Events

Gulf Bank concluded its gold sponsorship participation of 300 athletes, of the Kuwait International Jiu-Jitsu representing 20 countries. A specialized Open that took place over two days referee crew panel from the United States in Kuwait at the Ice Skating Rink in of America supervised and oversaw Kuwait City in November 2016. Gulf the performance of competitors. Bank’s sponsorship comes as part of its commitment to supporting youth The Public Authority for Sports was initiatives and its campaign of promoting the strategic partner of the Kuwait health and fitness activities. International Jiu-Jitsu Open, along with the Kuwait Olympic Committee acting The championship included the as governmental partners.

CSR 2016 EnCC.indd 52 3/3/17 7:08 PM CSR 2016 GULF BANK SPONSORS THE 33rd JASSIM AL-SHARHAN RAMADAN FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT

In line with its strategy to develop each year in the memory of the late youth skills and as part of its corporate Jassim Al-Sharhan, and it has become social responsibility (CSR) initiatives very popular among football fans and during the month of Ramadan, Gulf players in Kuwait, providing a vibrant Bank sponsored the 33rd late Jassim and competitive atmosphere enjoyed Al-Sharhan Ramadan Football by the teams and the fans. tournament. Gulf Bank is firmly committed to The late Jassim Al-Sharhan Ramadan supporting all segments of Kuwait Football tournament, which is society and it is particularly focused traditionally run throughout the on youth programs, giving young month of Ramadan, is one of the people the best possible start and most prominent sports activities as many opportunities as possible to that take place in Kuwait during the help them achieve their full potential. Holy Month. The tournament is played

CSR 2016 EnCC.indd 53 3/3/17 7:08 PM CSR 2016 GULF BANK SPONSORS 'THE FIRST ANNUAL EXHIBITION ON NUTRITION AND HEALTH'

Gulf Bank was pleased to be the companies in Kuwait and Europe, gold sponsor for the First Annual this exhibition on health and nutrition Exhibition on Nutrition and Health for the people with special needs entitled ‘Your life is your health, was considered the first of its kind. and your health is your nutrition’. Its main objectives was to highlight The exhibition was held under the the importance of a healthy nutrition auspices of the Ministry of Health, on for those with special needs, raise December 18-19 2016, at the Marina awareness on ways and means for Hotel in Kuwait. their nutrition, and to define the role of a healthy lifestyle to combat With the participation of specialized obesity amongst the new generation.

CSR 2016 EnCC.indd 54 3/3/17 7:08 PM CSR 2016 GULF BANK VISITS KUWAIT ASSOCIATION FOR THE CARE OF CHILDREN IN HOSPITAL (KACCH)

Gulf Bank continued its support of the Kuwait Association for the Care of Children in Hospital (KACCH) as part of its ongoing charitable commitments.

During the visit to the Bayt Abdullah Children’s Hospice, Gulf Bankpresented a cheque to the KACCH Founding Director, Mrs. Margaret Al-Sayer, who expressed activities for hospitalized children with her sincere thanks and appreciation an aim of reducing the adverse effects for the pivotal role Gulf Bank has of hospitalization on their development made in caring for hospitalized and well-being. children. This donation was part of Gulf Bank's KACCH is one of Kuwait's leading NGOs, annual contribution and ongoing providing a wide range of services for commitment to help provide superior hospitalized children. The association levels of health care and an enhanced organizes and conducts different stay for hospitalized children.

CSR 2016 EnCC.indd 55 3/3/17 7:08 PM CSR 2016 GULF BANK OFFERS FREE HEALTH CHECK UPS FOR ITS EMPLOYEES IN COOPERATION WITH DAR AL-SHIFA HOSPITAL

Gulf Bank hosted a team of medical of the medical check-ups and experts from Dar Al-Shifa hospital acknowledged the importance of who offered free health check-ups having regular medical checkups for its employees. to prevent illness and to lead a healthier lifestyle. Over the course of two days, Dar Al-Shifa’s team visited the Bank’s Gulf Bank is dedicated to providing employees at Al-Saleh Building and a healthy and suitable environment the Bank’s Head Office in Mubarak Al for its employees. As a leading Kabeer, where employees received financial institution Gulf Bank will their free check-up and consultation. continue to encourage its employees to take advantage of initiatives and Gulf Bank’s employees turned out opportunities that promote a healthy in large numbers to take advantage lifestyle.

CSR 2016 EnCC.indd 56 3/3/17 7:08 PM CSR 2016 GULF BANK SPONSORS DASMAN DIABETES INSTITUTE’S SCHOOLS HEALTHY CANTEEN ART PROGRAM

Gulf Bank sponsored the Dasman from their creative paper art. Diabetes Institute’s School Healthy Each school team, which was made Canteen Art Program, which was up of many students, designed their organized in collaboration with the concept of a healthy canteen in the Ministry of Education and Ministry of form of paper maché, which was Health, School Health Department. assembled into a booth and displayed Dasman Diabetes Institute’s Schools at 360 Mall. Gulf Bank awarded the Healthy Canteen Art Program is first winner, which is Fatemah Bent designed to encourage a healthy Al Yaman School, second winner, and creative culture in high schools which is Failaka Primary School and through a friendly competition. In third place winner, which is Mishrif 2016, 11 public schools from the Primary School with cash prizes as Hawalli School District competed for well as commemorative trophies for the ‘Best Booth Display’ award made each team.

CSR 2016 EnCC.indd 57 3/3/17 7:08 PM CSR 2016 GULF BANK HOLDS STAFF SOCCER TOURNAMENT

Following the spectacular win of the Gulf Bank team at the Kuwait Banking Association tournament in May of 2016, Gulf Bank decided to hold a series of team trials to seek out new talent for the Bank’s team for the upcoming 2016 – 2017 season. Trials were held in September and October and a new team was chosen in December, 2016.

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