Hub Forum stands as the ultimate destination for visionaries, innovators, and decision-makers in the paper, stationery, office and school industries. This exclusive gathering is more than just a conference - it’s a dynamic think tank designed to spark innovation, foster connections, and equip professionals to thrive in a rapidly evolving marketplace.
In 2025 edition, the Hub Forum will feature 35+ influential speakers from industry leaders; Almarai, Moleskine, Submarine Pens Ltd, P Sq Paper Trading, and more to deliver thought-provoking sessions on AI, sustainability, e-commerce and digital transformation - the trends redefining the future of our industries.
Over three days, delegates will immerse themselves in valuable insights, collaborative discussions and unparalleled networking opportunities. Whether you’re seeking cutting-edge strategies or aiming to connect with the brightest minds in the business, the Hub Forum is your gateway to industry excellence.
11:00 - 11:45 | The Future Is Writable: Why Writing Instruments, Notebooks, and Planners Remain Irreplaceable Even in AI-Dominant Work Environments
Despite the rise of AI and digital tools, writing instruments, notebooks, and planners continue to play a vital role in creativity, focus, and productivity. This session explores why analog tools remain irreplaceable in today’s tech-driven work environments.
Speakers: Shalin Gandhi, Managing Director, Submarine Pens Ltd
Neda Safaei, Country Manager MEA & Mediterranean, Moleskine
11:45 - 12:30 | The Return of Investment (ROI) on Corporate Gifts
In a world where personalization and brand experience define success, corporate gifting has evolved into a powerful marketing and relationship-building tool. During this Hub Forum session, discover how data-driven strategies and creative personalization can transform gifting from a simple gesture into a measurable growth driver. Explore real-world examples of brands achieving tangible ROI through meaningful connections with clients, partners, and employees — and learn how to make every gift a catalyst for engagement, loyalty, and long-term value.
Speaker:
Mohamed Alayat, Founder, Event Gift
Moderator:
H.E. Laila Rahhal El Atfani, CEO, Woman Business Circle
12:30 - 13:00 | Gifting with Purpose: Building a Culture of Sustainability Through Everyday Touchpoints
Explore how mindful gifting can promote sustainability and strengthen workplace culture—transforming everyday moments into meaningful expressions of purpose.
Speaker: Namrata Budhraja, Co-Founder, Shift Eco
13:00 - 13:45 | Future of Print vs Digital Coexistence
Join industry leaders as they discuss the evolving relationship between print and digital media, exploring how both can coexist and complement each other in a hybrid future.
Speakers: Purva Grover, Author, Journalist & Creative Entrepreneur
H.E. Laila Rahhal El Atfani, Founder & CEO, Women Business Circle
Moderator:
Nadia Swan- TV Presenter and Conference MC
13:45 - 14:15 | Screen to Shelf: Entertainment Brands Driving Retail Value
Discover how entertainment brands turn on-screen stories into retail success. Learn how fandom, data, and creative partnerships transform audience engagement into sales and long-term brand value.
Speaker: Shruti Dhok, Licensing Manager, K2S Media
14:15 - 15:00 | Modern Marketing: Tools, Trends & Tactics for Brand Growth
An insightful session covering the latest marketing technologies, strategies, and trends that help brands grow and stay competitive in today’s fast-paced landscape.
15:00 - 15:45 | Bridging Tradition and Innovation: Leading the Paper & Stationery Industry Forward
Discussing leadership strategies to manage legacy business models alongside emerging market trends.
Speaker: Parvesh Kapoor, Director, Alia Mohamed Trdg Co.LLC
Moderator: Nadia Swan- TV Presenter and Conference MC
15:45 - 16:45 | Sustainable Packaging Trends in the MEA Region: A Case Study of Corrugated Boxes, Paper Bags, and Honeycomb Padded Mailers
Examine key sustainability trends in packaging within the MEA region, with a focus on innovative use of corrugated boxes and paper bags to meet eco-friendly goals.
Speakers: Parv Sondhi, Founder and Managing Partner, P Sq Paper Trading
Marcel Mhanna, General Manager, Mepco Gulf Commodities DMCC
11:00 - 11:45 | India - A profitable Sourcing Destination for Handicrafts
India is one of the important suppliers of Home, Lifestyle, Fashion, Furnishing, and Furniture to the world market, thanks to its rich heritage of craftsmanship and versatile production capabilities. India’s diverse product offerings, from handcrafted textiles and intricate décor to high-quality furniture, cater to the unique tastes and demands of global markets. With competitive pricing driven by cost-effective labor and production, India delivers high-quality products that enable global buyers to secure attractive margins. Moreover, as sustainability becomes a global imperative, India’s sourcing landscape has shifted towards eco-friendly practices and ethical production. Many suppliers are now adopting sustainable materials, fair-trade practices, and environmentally conscious methods, positioning Indian products as appealing choices for environmentally aware consumers.
Join the session and explore opportunities offered in India.
Speaker:
Neeraj Khanna, Chairman, Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts
Learn effective strategies and key tips for successfully pitching and winning corporate gifting contracts in competitive markets.
Speakers: Moomal Nirwan, Founder & CEO, The Keen Co
Mohamed Alayat, Founder, Event Gift
Shrey Jasani, Head of Marketing & Technology, Jasani LLC
Moderator:
Nadia Swan- TV Presenter and Conference MC
12:30 - 13:15 | How AI Tools Are Transforming Product Development, Procurement, and B2B Buyer Journeys
Learn how artificial intelligence is reshaping the way companies develop products, manage procurement, and engage B2B buyers, driving efficiency and innovation.
Speakers: Vidya Malkani, Managing Partner, VMC Consulting Services
Abhinav Mittal, AI STRATEGY & GOVERNANCE ADVISOR TO CXOs, BABL.AI
Moderator:
Nadia Swan- TV Presenter and Conference MC
13:15 - 14:15 | Made in MENA: Connecting Paper Manufacturers, Traders & Packaging Leaders for Regional Growth
This session invites paper manufacturers, traders, and packaging experts from across the MENA region to come together for a meaningful conversation about the future of our industry. As the global market shifts and the demand for sustainable, locally made solutions rises, there’s never been a better time to collaborate. We’ll explore how working together—while navigating regulations, meeting customer expectations, and scaling regional capabilities—can help us build a stronger, more competitive paper and packaging ecosystem rooted in the MENA region.
Speakers: Parv Sondhi, Founder and Managing Partner, P Sq Paper Trading
Fadi Baaklini, Chairman & Founder, Mepco Gulf
Ali Haider, CEO, Capital Envelops LLC
Hitendra Daherikar, Sales Team Lead, Kaagaz Trading LLC
Moderator:
Nadia Swan, TV Presenter and Conference MC
14:15 - 15:00 | Compliance & Certification: What Brands Need to Know
Explore compliance requirements and certification standards for global market success.
Speakers: Mutaz Yahya, Head of Global MarComs and Regional Sales Government & Trade Services, Intertek
Henrietta Cardoza, Technical Manager, Intertek International Ltd.
15:00 - 15:45 | PaperOne: Driving Quality and Sustainability in a Changing Market
Discover how PaperOne is leading the way in delivering high-quality products while embracing sustainable practices, adapting to market changes, and setting new standards for responsible growth.
Speakers: Alex Zhang Liang, Commercial Business Development Head, Asia Symbol
Jayanta Kumar Sahoo, Regional Head – Paper, APRIL
Dilip Kumar Singh, Regional Head - Paper, APRIL
Arnab Barua, Regional Marketing Head, ARRIL
Moderator: Nadia Swan, TV Presenter and Conference MC
15:45 - 16:30 | Insights from Brands Leading the Eco-Movement
Hear from trailblazing brands committed to sustainability, sharing best practices and innovations driving the eco-conscious transformation of the paper industry.
Speaker:
Richa Bansal, Founder, Ecobee
Moderator:
Nadia Swan, TV Presenter and Conference MC
16:30 - 17:15 | The Business of Licensing: Unlocking Brand Potential
Understand how licensing deals can expand brand reach, diversify product lines, and create new revenue streams within the paper and stationery sector.
Speaker: Amer Bitar, Founder & CEO, BBM Licensing
Moderator:
Nadia Swan, TV Presenter and Conference MC
Moderator: Moomal Nirwan, Founder & Curator, The Keen Company FZE
15:00 - 15:45 | Creative Industries at a Turning Point: Building a Future-Ready Book Ecosystem Through Innovation, Sustainability, and AI
Speaker:
Saif Alsuwaidi, Director, Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone
15:45 - 16:30 | Innovations in Recycling: How Technology Enhances Reduce and Reuse Efforts
Hear from trailblazing brands committed to sustainability, sharing best practices and innovations driving the eco-conscious transformation of the paper industry.
Speakers:
Hala Al Naamani, Co-Founder, Paltic
Aliyu Mohamed Ali, Co-Founder & CEO, Ehfaaz
Moderator:
Nadia Swan, TV Presenter and Conference MC
In Their Own Words: Why They’re Speaking at the Hub Forum
As a brand deeply connected to education and youth culture, Threads is continuously inspired by how learning environments shape lifestyle and consumer choices. Paperworld Middle East provides an excellent platform to engage with industry peers, exchange insights, and explore how evolving educational trends are influencing demand and innovation across related sectors.
The Hub Forum offers not only networking opportunities with industry leaders and decision-makers but also insights into market shifts, product innovations within the paper industry. Participating allows me to share our experiences, learn from others, and explore new ways to elevate quality, efficiency, and sustainability in our business operations.
I'm here because the B2B distribution industry in the United Arab Emirates is the backbone of regional commerce, and it's currently undergoing a high-stakes Digital Transformation. As an Event Speaker, My inspiration is to bring the critical conversation of AI Governance and Responsible AI directly to these foundational businesses. It's about ensuring their innovation journey is built on a solid framework of value realization, trust and ethical practices, not just on adopting new technology.
