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Teamwork, inclusion and engagement at every level
Ride For Unity is a non-profit organization based on the principles of spreading the message of Diversity, Inclusion, Sustainability and Tolerance through the medium of sport. It is essential for us to demonstrate how these values translate and are practically implemented in business, life and the modern day world. Which is why we always include stops in schools, universities and organizations within all of our programs, to help create awareness, engagement and educate the next generation on the impact of sport – which is more than just about wellness and well-being – it has far reaching significance, to include science, data, technology and a deeper understanding of the comprehensive capability and capacity of humans and humanity at large.
We’re all about the power of sport to unify people, cultures and nations alike through positive endeavors and the lasting effect it has on us as individuals and society holistically.
Creating strength through diversity
Creating equal opportunities
Developing entrepreneurial mentalities through the leadership, team building and discipline required in sports
Sustainability at the human level - supporting the weak among us
Teamwork, inclusion and engagement at every level.
Our inaugural event is the 7 Days, 7 Emirates Ride for Unity, which we will carry on as an annual event in the UAE. This will be followed by similar events across the globe, to help spread the message, and create unique opportunities and shared moments that inspire and encourage others to live, develop and implement these values into every facet of their lives.
SHEIKH MOHAMED BIN KAYED AL QASIMI
Sheikh Mohamed Bin Kayed Al Qasimi is the Chairman of Ras Al Khaimah Department of Economic Development. Known for his love of sports and his constant support and participation in cycling, running, triathlons races, and mountain climbing. His outstanding career and leadership skills were demonstrated in many positions, including President of Ras Al Khaimah Club, President of Student Council of Ras Al Khaimah Higher Colleges of Technology, Vice President of Ras Al Khaimah Council of Higher Colleges of Technology, and many other positions. Holding several leading positions and tasks, sports remained his first passion, providing all sport activities and events with all support and encouragement.
Lynsey Usher
Lynsey Usher is a true aficionado around all things cycling. Currently responsible for pioneering new pathways for women within corporate entities, sponsors and community in the sport with an inclusive approach at the forefront. Herself a cyclist, with over 20 years in cycling, racing, sports marketing, coaching and lecturing - she is now part of corporate management for the UAE Womens World Tour Team (UAE Team ADQ) . She manages and mentors a team of coaches who are on a mission to radically transform the UAE womens cycling community and landscape. Her “femtor” mindset and steering clear of a “one size fits all” approach has earned her a strong and respected position and focal point in the community, where she endeavors to inspire and motivate new and established women to the sport.
Faisal Al Nuaimi
Faisal Al Nuaimi is a seasoned professional with 30 years of experience and more than 19+ years in senior roles across prominent public and private sector organizations in the UAE. Faisal is currently General Manager at Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, and prior to joining the turbo-powered team at Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Faisal was General Manager of Qasr Al Watan, dubbed the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi and managed by Miral Experiences. Faisal has held various leadership roles in the UAE, as the former CEO of Marsa Properties, Executive Director of Sales and Marketing at Ajman Free Zone and Director General of Ajman Tourism Development Department.
Fatima Reyadh
First female basketball coach to Al Najma men’s team in the Bahraini National League. She was part of the first Bahrain National Swimming Team, holds a black belt in Tae Kwon Do and is an official at the Bahrain General Sports Authority. Breaking down barriers in sport and business, Fatima is an Icon for women leadership everywhere.
JESSICA SMITH
OAM PLY
Australian Paralympian swimmer (2004 Paralympic Games, Athens), motivational speaker, published children’s book author, and co-founder of a company driving inclusive talent management for businesses. A 2017 Cosmopolitan Woman of the Year Game Changer winner, Australian Government Positive Body Image Award Emerging Leader and Pride of Australia Medal recipient, public speaker and immense personality.
HERB “FLIGHT TIME” LANG
An 18-year former player and coach with the Harlem Globetrotters, Herb has visited over 80 countries where he has interacted with governors, presidents, popes and many other powerful dignitaries, spreading the message of unity, kindness and service to others.
Marwan Al Sherif
Marwan Al Sherif is a devoted husband and father who has achieved notable success as an Ironman finisher in all regions worldwide and a former national springboard diving champion. Currently serving as the Customer Experience and Innovations Manager at AGMC, he passionately strives to make a positive impact on people.
AMY GILLINGHAM
The first female football commentator in the UAE, paving the way for women to play crucial roles in sports and broadcasting in the Middle East, Amy is also a Physical & Health Education Trainer for the Ministry of Education and is a Sports and Activity consultant for the Emirates Schools Establishment.
JUSTIN LEVENE
Named in the top 10 most powerful and influential people of determination in the UK, he is the World and European Champion in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, winner of 29 Wheelchair titles across the globe and completed a 3000-mile crossing of the USA by handbike.
SHEIKHA SAREH AMERI
Sheikha Sareh Ameri's diverse experiences have fueled her commitment to global unity. As founder of Armatai GmbH, she supports women and small spice farmers worldwide. Now, as Managing Director of the 7 Days 7 Emirates cycling event for unity, Sareh embodies the values of sustainability, unity, and inclusion, leaving an inspiring legacy of positive global change.
MANNA DABHOLKAR
Leaders of International NGO, GIFT Global Initiative, spending their entire time creating better lives for others and alleviating human suffering through social impact.
KEITH KIRKWOOD
Leaders of International NGO, GIFT Global Initiative, spending their entire time creating better lives for others and alleviating human suffering through social impact.
JONATHAN BOWMAN-PERKS
MBE
Jonathan is a renowned Trusted Advisor & Coach to CEOs & Executive teams, Broadcaster and host of the Inspiring Leadership Podcast, rated Globally in the top 1.5%. His books on Inspiring Leadership, draws on his vast experience as a British Army Officer, Executive and a World Class Speakers’ Coach. He holds the world record for the Cyprus Double Mountain Marathon, and at 62, support his philanthropic causes with fitness challenges. Jonathan was awarded the MBE by Queen Elizabeth II for his services to bring Peace and Unity to East Timor Conflict.
LEAH TEDROW
Strategic Communications and Marketing expert specializing in mass media, PR and social engineering campaigns in conflict, post conflict and developing countries. US military veteran, winner of multiple broadcast industry awards and amateur triathlete
DANIEL BERNARD
25-year veteran of the sports industry and now an active technology Investor and Entrepreneur. A vocal advocate for diversity in business, Daniel is focused on bringing maximum impact to people’s lives through Sport.
Leigh Bowman-Perks
Leigh is the CEO of Inspiring Leadership International, an organisation that delivers top tier executive development to global organisations. She is a passionate philanthropist, and is the founder and CEO of the Inspiring Leadership foundation, and international charity helping women, families and communities thrive, through tackling health, education and employability crises. As author and broadcaster of Inspiring Women Leaders, she is now embarking on her next project - Inspiring Leadership for Toxic Turnarounds. Her passion for physical fitness and lifelong learning has led her to train in jiu jitsu, cross-fit, weightlifting and tennis… as a start!
Jimi Ibrahim
Jimi Ibrahim is an architect turned entrepreneur with investments in Real Estate, FnB, Web3, Tech and Gaming. As the co-founder of OasisX, Jimi is driving the innovation and growth of a company that leverages technology and decentralization to create new opportunities and solutions in various industries.
Carlo Calcagni
During a peacekeeping mission in Sarajevo in 1996, Carlo was exposed to depleted uranium and 28 toxic heavy metals, which left him with over 24 separate medical conditions, which he battles with daily injections, myriad medications, 18-hours of oxygen therapy, hyperbaric chamber sessions, plasmapheresis and sleeps attached to a pulmonary ventilator. Despite it all, Carlo’s has defied the odds and continued his athletic journey, having competed in the Invictus games and recently returned from the World Company Sports Games in Mexico with EIGHT (8) gold medals in the 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, 1500m, 5000m, 5k and 10k runs. He continues to inspire those around him with his fortitude, mental strength and unbreakable spirit and courage.
SACHA JAFRI
Artist, humanitarian, philanthropist, educator and Guinness Book of World Records holder for creating the world's largest painting on canvas, Journey of Humanity, over seven months in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic in Dubai. A powerful public and motivational speaker who leads with the motto “Kindness is Free".
SHEIKH MOHAMED BIN KAYED AL QASIMI
Sheikh Mohamed Bin Kayed Al Qasimi is the Chairman of Ras Al Khaimah Department of Economic Development. Known for his love of sports and his constant support and participation in cycling, running, triathlons races, and mountain climbing. His outstanding career and leadership skills were demonstrated in many positions, including President of Ras Al Khaimah Club, President of Student Council of Ras Al Khaimah Higher Colleges of Technology, Vice President of Ras Al Khaimah Council of Higher Colleges of Technology, and many other positions. Holding several leading positions and tasks, sports remained his first passion, providing all sport activities and events with all support and encouragement.
Lynsey Usher
Lynsey Usher is a true aficionado around all things cycling. Currently responsible for pioneering new pathways for women within corporate entities, sponsors and community in the sport with an inclusive approach at the forefront. Herself a cyclist, with over 20 years in cycling, racing, sports marketing, coaching and lecturing - she is now part of corporate management for the UAE Womens World Tour Team (UAE Team ADQ) . She manages and mentors a team of coaches who are on a mission to radically transform the UAE womens cycling community and landscape. Her “femtor” mindset and steering clear of a “one size fits all” approach has earned her a strong and respected position and focal point in the community, where she endeavors to inspire and motivate new and established women to the sport.
Faisal Al Nuaimi
Faisal Al Nuaimi is a seasoned professional with 30 years of experience and more than 19+ years in senior roles across prominent public and private sector organizations in the UAE. Faisal is currently General Manager at Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, and prior to joining the turbo-powered team at Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Faisal was General Manager of Qasr Al Watan, dubbed the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi and managed by Miral Experiences. Faisal has held various leadership roles in the UAE, as the former CEO of Marsa Properties, Executive Director of Sales and Marketing at Ajman Free Zone and Director General of Ajman Tourism Development Department.
Fatima Reyadh
First female basketball coach to Al Najma men’s team in the Bahraini National League. She was part of the first Bahrain National Swimming Team, holds a black belt in Tae Kwon Do and is an official at the Bahrain General Sports Authority. Breaking down barriers in sport and business, Fatima is an Icon for women leadership everywhere.
JESSICA SMITH
OAM PLY
Australian Paralympian swimmer (2004 Paralympic Games, Athens), motivational speaker, published children’s book author, and co-founder of a company driving inclusive talent management for businesses. A 2017 Cosmopolitan Woman of the Year Game Changer winner, Australian Government Positive Body Image Award Emerging Leader and Pride of Australia Medal recipient, public speaker and immense personality.
HERB “FLIGHT TIME” LANG
An 18-year former player and coach with the Harlem Globetrotters, Herb has visited over 80 countries where he has interacted with governors, presidents, popes and many other powerful dignitaries, spreading the message of unity, kindness and service to others.
Marwan Al Sherif
Marwan Al Sherif is a devoted husband and father who has achieved notable success as an Ironman finisher in all regions worldwide and a former national springboard diving champion. Currently serving as the Customer Experience and Innovations Manager at AGMC, he passionately strives to make a positive impact on people.
AMY GILLINGHAM
The first female football commentator in the UAE, paving the way for women to play crucial roles in sports and broadcasting in the Middle East, Amy is also a Physical & Health Education Trainer for the Ministry of Education and is a Sports and Activity consultant for the Emirates Schools Establishment.
JUSTIN LEVENE
Named in the top 10 most powerful and influential people of determination in the UK, he is the World and European Champion in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, winner of 29 Wheelchair titles across the globe and completed a 3000-mile crossing of the USA by handbike.
SHEIKHA SAREH AMERI
Sheikha Sareh Ameri's diverse experiences have fueled her commitment to global unity. As founder of Armatai GmbH, she supports women and small spice farmers worldwide. Now, as Managing Director of the 7 Days 7 Emirates cycling event for unity, Sareh embodies the values of sustainability, unity, and inclusion, leaving an inspiring legacy of positive global change.
MANNA DABHOLKAR
Leaders of International NGO, GIFT Global Initiative, spending their entire time creating better lives for others and alleviating human suffering through social impact.
KEITH KIRKWOOD
Leaders of International NGO, GIFT Global Initiative, spending their entire time creating better lives for others and alleviating human suffering through social impact.
JONATHAN BOWMAN-PERKS
MBE
Jonathan is a renowned Trusted Advisor & Coach to CEOs & Executive teams, Broadcaster and host of the Inspiring Leadership Podcast, rated Globally in the top 1.5%. His books on Inspiring Leadership, draws on his vast experience as a British Army Officer, Executive and a World Class Speakers’ Coach. He holds the world record for the Cyprus Double Mountain Marathon, and at 62, support his philanthropic causes with fitness challenges. Jonathan was awarded the MBE by Queen Elizabeth II for his services to bring Peace and Unity to East Timor Conflict.
LEAH TEDROW
Strategic Communications and Marketing expert specializing in mass media, PR and social engineering campaigns in conflict, post conflict and developing countries. US military veteran, winner of multiple broadcast industry awards and amateur triathlete
DANIEL BERNARD
25-year veteran of the sports industry and now an active technology Investor and Entrepreneur. A vocal advocate for diversity in business, Daniel is focused on bringing maximum impact to people’s lives through Sport.
Leigh Bowman-Perks
Leigh is the CEO of Inspiring Leadership International, an organisation that delivers top tier executive development to global organisations. She is a passionate philanthropist, and is the founder and CEO of the Inspiring Leadership foundation, and international charity helping women, families and communities thrive, through tackling health, education and employability crises. As author and broadcaster of Inspiring Women Leaders, she is now embarking on her next project - Inspiring Leadership for Toxic Turnarounds. Her passion for physical fitness and lifelong learning has led her to train in jiu jitsu, cross-fit, weightlifting and tennis… as a start!
Jimi Ibrahim
Jimi Ibrahim is an architect turned entrepreneur with investments in Real Estate, FnB, Web3, Tech and Gaming. As the co-founder of OasisX, Jimi is driving the innovation and growth of a company that leverages technology and decentralization to create new opportunities and solutions in various industries.
Carlo Calcagni
During a peacekeeping mission in Sarajevo in 1996, Carlo was exposed to depleted uranium and 28 toxic heavy metals, which left him with over 24 separate medical conditions, which he battles with daily injections, myriad medications, 18-hours of oxygen therapy, hyperbaric chamber sessions, plasmapheresis and sleeps attached to a pulmonary ventilator. Despite it all, Carlo’s has defied the odds and continued his athletic journey, having competed in the Invictus games and recently returned from the World Company Sports Games in Mexico with EIGHT (8) gold medals in the 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, 1500m, 5000m, 5k and 10k runs. He continues to inspire those around him with his fortitude, mental strength and unbreakable spirit and courage.
SACHA JAFRI
Artist, humanitarian, philanthropist, educator and Guinness Book of World Records holder for creating the world's largest painting on canvas, Journey of Humanity, over seven months in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic in Dubai. A powerful public and motivational speaker who leads with the motto “Kindness is Free".
