Islam Issa

Islam Issa Speaking Topics

• The Legacy of Alexandria: Soft Power and Legacy

  Founded by Alexander the Great in the fourth century BCE, Alexandria stands as a powerful example of what it means to create something from scratch and truly new—a city born from vision, ambition, and strategy. Over centuries, this city became a prize fought over by almost every empire and a stage for legendary leaders from Alexander the Great to Cleopatra to Napoleon. It was the cradle where the most innovative minds and inventors turned the city into a knowledge capital, global trading hub, and the Silicon Valley of its time.

  In this captivating talk by Prof. Islam Issa – Alexandria’s foremost biographer and author of the award-winning seven-time Book of the Year “Alexandria: The City that Changed the World” – we explore what it truly means to build something from the ground up: a city, a project, or even a vision.

  • What does it take to bring a bold vision to life from nothing?
  • How can we turn vision into reality?
  • How do imagination and mythology fuel ambition?
  • How can we use soft power to wield power and to build a legacy?

  Beyond its fame, Alexandria teaches us about the art of building influence, shaping culture, and creating lasting impact through soft power. While much of Alexandria’s physical glory has vanished, its influence continues to resonate, offering timeless lessons about creation, leadership and soft power. Join us to uncover the secrets of Alexandria’s rise and discover how you can harness vision and influence to create something extraordinary.

  Whether you’re building a new project, leading a team, or simply looking to leave a lasting mark, this talk will inspire you to think about vision and legacy in a whole new way.

• Literature and History: Asking “Why” to Shape Success

  Literature is more than just entertainment or information—it’s a vital part of culture that has shaped the world and continues to do so every day. But what happens when we look at literature and history side by side? Which comes first? Does literature shape how we understand history, or does history influence the stories we tell? It’s a chicken and egg situation.

  In this inspiring talk, Islam Issa – the UK’s only Professor of Literature and History – explores the dynamic and intertwined relationship between literature and history: a relationship that reflects how we see ourselves, our past, and the future. Far from being fixed, both literature and history are constantly evolving, shaped by the writers, readers, and historians who dare to ask the key question, “Why?”

  You’ll discover how life and art mirror each other, how stories and historical facts influence one another, and how this ongoing exchange gives us powerful tools to interpret the world. This talk will inspire you to use the lessons from literature and history to unlock your own path to success.

  The talk reflects on the following questions:

  • How do the stories and histories you know shape your view of yourself and your future?
  • Can understanding the past help you make better choices today?
  • What role do the stories you tell about yourself play in your personal success?
  • How can asking “why” help you grow in your career or personal life?
  • In what ways might life imitate the stories you read or hear?

  History and literature are interchanging phenomena: a series of interpretations by writers and readers that give individuals and societies a lens into the past, inform the present, and frame the future. Join us to uncover how the stories we read and the histories we learn can empower us to think deeply, act wisely, and shape a brighter future.

• Shakespeare and the Art of Simplicity

  Shakespeare is more than just a name—he’s a cultural phenomenon whose influence spans centuries and continents. Yet, despite his global fame, one question continues to puzzle scholars, artists, and audiences alike: Why Shakespeare? Why do his plays continue to resonate so powerfully, even today?

  In this thought-provoking talk, we delve into the heart of Shakespeare’s enduring appeal. The answer may surprise you. It lies in the remarkable simplicity of his works—simplicity in both structure and language. This simplicity is not about being basic or plain; rather, it’s a deliberate and powerful tool that allows Shakespeare’s stories to transcend time and culture, connecting deeply with people across the world.

  This talk answers the following questions:

  • What is simplicity in Shakespeare, and why is it so important?
  • Why is having a clear story important for connecting with your audience?
  • Can simple ideas be more powerful than complicated ones?
  • How can simplicity help us reach our goals more easily?

  Join Prof. Islam Issa – one of the world’s most renowned Shakespeare scholars – as we explore the different forms of simplicity in Shakespeare’s plays and uncover why this quality is so vital—not just for literature, but for achieving clarity and impact in any goal or endeavor. Whether you’re a student, artist, leader, or simply a curious mind, this talk will inspire you to see how simplicity can be the key to making a lasting impression and creating meaningful connections.

  Discover the timeless wisdom of Shakespeare, and leave equipped to apply these insights to your own life and ambitions.