In a testament to the transformative power of education and the unwavering commitment to social change, distinguished graduates from Qatar Foundation universities have shared their inspiring journeys and visions for a brighter future. In exclusive interviews with Qatar Tribune’s Khalid Tawalbeh, these trailblazing individuals have shed light on how their educational experiences have empowered them to make tangible differences in society, both locally and globally. From Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) to Northwestern University in Qatar (NUQ), these graduates represent a diverse array of disciplines and backgrounds, united by a shared passion for driving impactful change. Their stories underscore the pivotal role of Qatar Foundation universities in nurturing socially-conscious leaders equipped to address the pressing challenges of our time. Reflecting on their educational journeys, these graduates highlight pivotal moments where their experiences at Qatar Foundation universities propelled them towards advocacy and action. Whether through research projects addressing global issues or initiatives aimed at fostering intercultural dialogue, each graduate has leveraged their education to effect meaningful change in their communities.
Qatar Foundation Alumna Alanood Jassim Al-Neama Advocates for Social Change
Alanood Jassim Al-Neama, an esteemed graduate of Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), stands as a beacon of advocacy and social innovation, driven by her education and commitment to effecting tangible change. Holding a Master’s degree in Intercultural Communication (MAICC), Alanood has been at the forefront of initiatives aimed at fostering dialogue and understanding in a multicultural Qatar.
Reflecting on her educational journey, Alanood recalls a pivotal moment during her time at HBKU when she advocated for improved course scheduling to accommodate the diverse commitments of her classmates. By addressing this challenge head-on, Alanood successfully facilitated a more inclusive learning environment, enabling robust discussions and collaborative work among her peers.
“As a student at HBKU, I encountered challenges with course timings that conflicted with personal and professional commitments. Through advocacy efforts, we were able to secure adjusted class schedules and additional office hours, enhancing the overall learning experience for everyone,” Alanood recounted.
Alanood envisions Qatar Foundation universities as catalysts for nurturing socially conscious leaders equipped to address complex challenges with ethical integrity and global perspective.
“Qatar Foundation universities play a vital role in cultivating socially conscious leaders who can drive impactful change both locally and globally. Through their commitment to fostering social awareness and engagement, these institutions empower students to become catalysts for positive transformation,” Alanood asserted.
Drawing from her professional experiences, Alanood has been actively involved in addressing social challenges and advocating for positive change within Qatar and beyond. Through extensive volunteering activities spanning over a decade, she has contributed to various community initiatives, including volunteering at local charities and government organizations.
“My involvement in social responsibility initiatives has reinforced my belief in the importance of civic duty and community engagement. Through these experiences, I have developed valuable skills and forged strong partnerships aimed at making a meaningful impact in my community,” Alanood remarked.
Alanood emphasizes the pivotal role of education in fostering a culture of social innovation and sustainable development. By providing students with opportunities for practical engagement and exposure to global trends, universities can inspire a new generation of changemakers committed to driving positive societal change.
“Education serves as a cornerstone for fostering a culture of social innovation and sustainable development. By equipping students with the knowledge and skills to address pressing social issues, universities empower them to become agents of change in their communities,” Alanood affirmed.
Alanood’s involvement in collaborative initiatives, such as the “Accessible User Experience in Hospitality” workshop, underscores the impactful partnership between Qatar Foundation graduates and local communities in addressing pressing social issues. Through collaborative efforts, Alanood and her peers strive to create a more inclusive and accessible society, in alignment with Qatar’s vision for sustainable development and human empowerment.
Qatar Foundation Graduate Zeina Al Qawasmi Champions Social Change Efforts
In the midst of global turmoil, Zeina Al Qawasmi, an esteemed alumna of Northwestern University in Qatar (NUQ), has emerged as a catalyst for activism and social change. Leading by example, she has utilized her education as a powerful tool to effect tangible transformations within her community.
Serving as the president of Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) at NUQ, Zeina spearheaded a series of initiatives aimed at providing support to communities impacted by the conflict in Gaza.
“In response to the recent conflict in Gaza, I organized a fundraiser for Qatar Charity, directing proceeds to Gaza, while also hosting awareness events to shed light on the Palestinian cause,” Zeina shared.
Her unwavering dedication to social justice and community engagement resonates deeply with the ethos fostered by Qatar Foundation universities, which serve as breeding grounds for socially conscious leaders. Zeina envisions these institutions as dynamic hubs where students are empowered to cultivate influential voices, both locally and globally.
“I firmly believe that Qatar Foundation universities will continue to nurture socially conscious leaders, equipping them with the skills and ethical standards necessary to address complex challenges with justice,” Zeina asserted.
Throughout her academic journey, Zeina has seamlessly integrated her professional pursuits with advocacy for social change. By prioritizing projects that tackle pressing social issues, such as the Palestinian cause, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to effecting positive change.
“During my tenure at NUQ, I have dedicated much of my energy to projects and club activities focused on creatively educating about the Palestinian cause, whether through research endeavors, art installations, or internships,” Zeina emphasized.
Zeina underscores the pivotal role of education in fostering a culture of social innovation and sustainable development. She emphasizes the importance of equipping students with the requisite knowledge, skills, and mindset to address complex challenges responsibly.
“Education and student-led initiatives play a pivotal role in fostering a culture of social innovation and sustainable development,” Zeina affirmed. “These attributes empower us to tackle pressing social issues with creativity and ethical integrity.”
Among Zeina’s most impactful endeavors was a collaborative initiative between Qatar Foundation graduates and local communities aimed at addressing the urgent social issue of the Gaza conflict. Through a fundraiser bake sale held at NUQ, Zeina and her peers rallied support, exemplifying the potency of collective action in effecting meaningful change.
As she reflects on her journey from student to accomplished professional, Zeina remains steadfast in her commitment to advocating for positive change within Qatar and beyond. Her unwavering dedication serves as a testament to the transformative potential of education in nurturing socially conscious leaders and catalyzing meaningful societal impact.
Muhammad Mubashir Ehsan: Championing Education for Social Change
Muhammad Mubashir Ehsan, an esteemed graduate of Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) within Qatar Foundation, has emerged as a driving force for positive societal change, leveraging his education to make a tangible impact. Reflecting on his journey, Mubashir highlights a transformative experience during his time at HBKU, where he engaged in research amid the pandemic, contributing to a project addressing pertinent issues exacerbated by global challenges. His involvement in the project led to the publication of a paper in a reputable academic journal, underscoring the power of education in effecting tangible change.
“Engaging in research-related education during the pandemic was transformative. Being part of a project that addressed pertinent issues was intellectually stimulating. Seeing my work recognized and disseminated validated my efforts as a young academic,” Mubashir shared.
Envisioning the future role of Qatar Foundation universities in nurturing socially conscious leaders, Mubashir emphasizes their commitment to excellence in education, research, and community engagement. He views Qatar Foundation as a hub of knowledge, bringing together experienced faculty and professionals across diverse subject areas, empowering students to develop holistic perspectives and innovative solutions to complex societal issues.
“Qatar Foundation’s emphasis on research initiatives catalyzes driving local and global change. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and hands-on learning experiences, students are empowered to tackle societal challenges,” Mubashir remarked.
Leveraging his professional success, Mubashir actively addresses social challenges and advocates for positive change within Qatar and beyond. His participation in conferences and dialogues facilitated by HBKU’s College of Public Policy has provided valuable platforms to engage with leading professionals and expand his understanding of evaluation practices, highlighting the significance of young evaluators in driving positive change.
Reflecting on the pivotal role of education in fostering a culture of social innovation and sustainable development, Mubashir recognizes its importance in empowering individuals with knowledge and skills to thrive in an ever-changing world. He acknowledges the disparities exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in access to quality education, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to mitigate its long-term effects.
“Education is the cornerstone of social progress and sustainable development. Understanding the consequences of learning losses is essential for developing interventions to support vulnerable students and foster a culture of social innovation,” Mubashir affirmed.
Muhammad Mubashir Ehsan’s dedication to education and social change exemplifies the transformative potential of Qatar Foundation universities in shaping socially conscious leaders and driving meaningful impact in society.
