LAU took another step forward in shaping the next generation of changemakers with its vibrant and inspiring event, 100 Years of Excellence: Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders with Soft Skills, in its second edition.

Organized by instructor and soft skills coordinator Maya Shayya at the Adnan Kassar School of Business (AKSOB), the event in April was a dynamic celebration of student growth, leadership, and potential. 

Through a mix of TED Talk-style presentations demonstrating communication, audience analysis, body language and negotiation; live expert interviews; and a standout business plan exhibition, students showed their academic knowledge and the soft skills that will define their careers. 

“As we embark on this journey, we are focusing on something beyond academics—something just as critical: soft skills,” said Dr. Shayya in her opening remarks. “Today is not only about competition; it is about giving students the platform to reflect, grow and celebrate their unique capabilities. Every student here is a winner because this is far more than a contest. It is a celebration of talent.”

Students confidently presented their ideas, tackled real-world challenges and engaged in thought-provoking dialogue with industry professionals as they learned to listen, lead and leave an impression—skills that are increasingly vital in today’s fast-paced, people-driven job market.

Chair of the Department of Management Studies at AKSOB Josiane Fahed-Sreih emphasized the importance of integrating soft skills into the university’s academic fabric. 

“Events like this show what LAU is truly about—preparing students for careers and professional life. We are equipping them with the emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills they need to thrive,” she said, noting that this was the second successful edition of the annual event. 

One of the most impactful moments came from guest speaker and juror Dr. Fadi Mahmoud (BS ’96), an LAU alumnus who now leads a thriving business empire across the GCC and MENA regions, Med Surg Solutions. 

Dr. Mahmoud spoke candidly about his journey, from student struggles to entrepreneurial success, highlighting how mastering soft skills like communication, negotiation and leadership was pivotal in his career. His message was clear: “It is not just what you know, but how you apply it, connect with others and lead authentically.”

In total, 15 students were named winners across the three segments of the event, but the benefits extended far beyond awards. Several organizations offered internships and opportunities, not just to the winners, but to all attendees.

Med Surg Solutions (MSS) opened internship applications to the entire audience; Mir Amin Palace Hotel extended professional lunch and dinner invitations; Le Passeport Culinaire offered internships in culinary innovation; World Vision provided internship opportunities in humanitarian work; and Bridge Talent Solutions surprised attendees with internship opportunities and mobile phone giveaways.

These real-world connections gave students a valuable glimpse into their potential futures and in many cases, a direct path to them.

The event marks another milestone in LAU’s 100 Years of Excellence initiative, which continues to focus on preparing students not just as graduates, but as leaders, innovators and socially conscious professionals ready to make a meaningful impact. The energy was high, the ideas were bold and the impact was real.