Carlos Moedas, Mayor of Lisbon (CML), attended CATÓLICA-LISBON on Friday, January 24, where he was welcomed by Dean Filipe Santos to preside over the closing session of the event "AI – From Theory to Practice," organized by the alumni community of The Lisbon MBA Católica|Nova.
During this session, key topics were discussed, including the future of innovation, the future of Europe, and Lisbon’s positioning as an attractive destination for global talent.
During his speech, Carlos Moedas emphasized the need to strike a balance between social well-being and innovation. He reinforced the importance of ensuring affordable housing, high-quality healthcare, and support for the most vulnerable as a foundation for promoting sustainable innovation. Additionally, he advocated for the integration of culture and technology as a key driver of social transformation:
"Local social well-being, culture, and innovation: this triangle guides my work at the Lisbon City Council. I have sought to connect these three elements to reshape the narrative and story in a way that helps people understand what I mean by innovation and what it signifies for the city. My vision for the city is about well-being. It is about a city that cares for those in need. But if I want to care for those in need, I need jobs. And if I want jobs, I need innovation—innovation is the tool we have to create employment."
During the session, the discussion focused on how Lisbon can strengthen its position as one of the most attractive destinations for global talent, with Carlos Moedas identifying three fundamental pillars: security, with Lisbon standing out as one of the safest cities in Europe, a decisive factor for those planning to move to a new country; cultural diversity, with the city serving as an example of acceptance and inclusion, essential characteristics for attracting professionals from different backgrounds; and a vibrant culture, with Lisbon offering a rich cultural scene that complements quality of life and attracts those seeking a balance between career and well-being.
Diversity and Creativity: The Drivers of Future Leadership
The importance of programs such as The Lisbon MBA Católica|Nova in shaping leaders capable of transforming Lisbon into a global city was also highlighted. Carlos Moedas also emphasized the role of diversity as a catalyst for creativity and innovation: "Diverse teams are more creative and innovative. Uniformity limits ideas; diversity expands possibilities."
Filipe Santos complemented the discussion by highlighting the positive impact of the new cohorts of The Lisbon MBA Católica|Nova and emphasizing the crucial role of leadership in challenging times:
"We are experiencing a new world order that will test the leadership, resilience, and values of leaders. At The Lisbon MBA Católica|Nova, we strive to develop leaders who can create impact and lead with vision and purpose. It is in times of greatest challenge that true leadership emerges."
The event, aimed at exploring the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI), featured a masterclass led by Miguel Godinho de Matos, Associate Professor at CATÓLICA-LISBON, and six Think Tanks focused on key sectors, including Retail, Healthcare, Real Estate, Technology, Media and Telecommunications, Sustainability and Industry.
The gathering reaffirmed The Lisbon MBA Católica|Nova's commitment to shaping leaders prepared for the challenges of an ever-changing world, with Lisbon further establishing itself as a hub of talent, innovation, and culture.