Latest news with #HindbintHamadAlThani
Qatar Tribune
7 days ago
- Sport
- Qatar Tribune
QOC announces 2036 Olympics and Paralympics bid committee leadership
Sheikh Joaan's leadership in helping establish the Olympic Refuge Foundation, with the Qatar Olympic Committee as a founding partner alongside the IOC, stands as a testament to his conviction that sport can serve as a powerful force for solidarity, hope, and inclusive development both regionally and globally. HE Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani brings to the Bid Committee a distinguished record of leadership in education, innovation, and community development through her role at Qatar Foundation. She has led the strategic partnership between Qatar Foundation and the Qatar Olympic Committee, with a particular focus on expanding access to sport for women and girls and establishing inclusive pathways for participation and professional advancement. As a member of the IOC's Olympic Education Commission, she is advancing the integration of Olympic values into educational and community frameworks across the region through a multilateral partnership between Qatar Foundation, Education Above All, and the IOC. She also serves as a Board Member of the FIVB Volleyball Foundation, further underscoring her commitment to broadening access to sport and supporting youth development on a global scale. The announcement of the Bid Committee reflects Qatar's approach to hosting the Games as a comprehensive national effort. The Committee brings together expertise from across sport, education, urban planning, sustainability and civil society to ensure that the bid delivers meaningful and measurable outcomes. As the Continuous Dialogue progresses, the Bid Committee will continue to engage national stakeholders and international partners to shape a proposal that is technically strong, socially inclusive and globally relevant. The bid will reflect a unified national vision that builds on Qatar'strack record, speaks to the potential of the region and upholds the enduring values of excellence, friendship and respect that define the Olympic and Paralympic Movements.
ILoveQatar.net
7 days ago
- Sport
- ILoveQatar.net
Qatar Olympic Committee announces formation of Bid Committee for 2036 Olympic & Paralympic Games
The Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) announced the formation of the Bid Committee for the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The announcement follows the QOC's confirmation yesterday of its official participation in Continuous Dialogue with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) regarding hosting the Games. His Excellency Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, President of the Qatar Olympic Committee, serves as Chairman of the Bid Committee, alongside Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, who serves as Vice Chairperson. Their leadership brings together a unique blend of expertise in sport, education and social development, positioning the bid to speak authentically to both local aspirations and the long-term vision of the Olympic and Paralympic Movements. His Excellency Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani has served as President of the Qatar Olympic Committee since 2015. Under his leadership, Qatar has firmly established itself as a global hub for major international sporting events. His strategic vision has positioned sport not only as a vehicle for elite competition but as a pillar of national development, one that strengthens social cohesion, unlocks human potential, and drives inclusive economic and cultural progress. During his tenure, Qatar has successfully hosted numerous world championships across multiple disciplines and invested in world class infrastructure that reflects the country's long-term commitment to excellence and sustainability in sport. Internationally, Sheikh Joaan plays an influential role within the global Olympic Movement. He serves as Senior Vice President and President for Asia of the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC), representing the voice and interests of the region on the world stage. As a member of the IOC's Olympism365 Commission, he contributes to advancing sport's role in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. His leadership in helping establish the Olympic Refuge Foundation, with the Qatar Olympic Committee as a founding partner alongside the IOC, stands as a testament to his conviction that sport can serve as a powerful force for solidarity, hope, and inclusive development both regionally and globally. Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani brings to the Bid Committee a distinguished record of leadership in education, innovation, and community development through her role at Qatar Foundation. She has led the strategic partnership between Qatar Foundation and the Qatar Olympic Committee, with a particular focus on expanding access to sport for women and girls and establishing inclusive pathways for participation and professional advancement. As a member of the IOC's Olympic Education Commission, she is advancing the integration of Olympic values into educational and community frameworks across the region through a multilateral partnership between Qatar Foundation, Education Above All, and the IOC. She also serves as a Board Member of the FIVB Volleyball Foundation, further underscoring her commitment to broadening access to sport and supporting youth development on a global scale. The announcement of the Bid Committee reflects Qatar's approach to hosting the Games as a comprehensive national effort. The Committee brings together expertise from across sport, education, urban planning, sustainability and civil society to ensure that the bid delivers meaningful and measurable outcomes. As the Continuous Dialogue progresses, the Bid Committee will continue to engage national stakeholders and international partners to shape a proposal that is technically strong, socially inclusive and globally relevant. The bid will reflect a unified national vision that builds on Qatar's track record, speaks to the potential of the region and upholds the enduring values of excellence, friendship and respect that define the Olympic and Paralympic Movements.
Qatar Tribune
29-06-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
QF launches second international alumni chapter to support and connect its graduates in UK
LONDON: The Qatar Foundation (QF) launched its Alumni Chapter for the UK, in the presence of Vice Chairperson of Qatar Foundation HE Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani. The Qatar Foundation Alumni Chapter for the UK launched at a London gathering is a platform aimed at helping its members support each other as their journeys continue to unfold, as well as to retain their ties with Qatar. It is the second international Alumni Chapter to be established by Qatar Foundation's (QF) Alumni Program, following the launch of its US and Canada equivalent in 2024. Reflecting the global reach and impact of QF's ecosystem of education, 137 of its alumni are currently working or pursuing further advanced studies in the UK, in fields including Artificial Intelligence, healthcare and medical research, policy, sustainability, communications, and humanitarianism. "The true legacy of Qatar Foundation and its schools, partner universities, and Hamad Bin Khalifa University lies not in rankings or research output, but in the lives of our alumni," said Francisco Marmolejo, President of Higher Education and Education Advisor, QF. "Graduates of Qatar Foundation-supported institutions are now driving positive change in over 120 countries. It's aliving proof of our mission to unlock human potential." Speaking at the launch of the Chapter, diplomat and economic strategist Sheikha Alanoud H Al Thani, who currently serves as the Counselor for Economic Affairs at the Embassy of the State of Qatar in the UK and is a graduate of QF's Qatar Academy Doha and QF partner university HEC Paris, Doha, said: "This Chapter deepens the longstanding Qatar-UK partnership in education and innovation,not just through institutions, but through the living bridge of our alumni." Across the UK, graduates of QF schools and universities are now harnessing the skills, knowledge, and values they gained through their years of study and discovery at Education City in Doha, as government economists, data scientists, software engineers, doctors, neuroscientists, climate strategists, and legal experts, among other roles. Others are pursuing postgraduate and doctoral studies in fields such as AI, public health, cancer research, and global affairs. Among them is Dr Basil Mahfouz, a data scientist at University College London and a graduate of QF partner university Georgetown University in Qatar. His projects focus on harnessing Artificial Intelligence to unlock knowledge and drive inclusive innovation, and he co-founded SynSapien, an open science platform that united global researchers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Ulan Seitkaliyev, an alumnus of QF partner university Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar and now a London-based software engineer for Bloomberg, said: "What stood out most for me during my time at QF was the incredible support we received, as well as the wide range of projects and opportunities available to explore our interests and pursue our own initiatives; it was an environment that truly encouraged creativity, independence, and innovation." Asmaa Alkuwari, Alumni Engagement Manager, QF, said: "This Chapter represents more than just a gathering, it's part of a broader strategic effort by the QF Alumni Engagement Office to foster lasting, global connections among QF graduates. We are proud of the distinguished alumni based in the UK who hold influential roles across sectors and continue to carry QF's values into the world through their work, leadership, and impact."
Qatar Tribune
11-05-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
Sheikha Hind attends HBKU graduation ceremony
Tribune News Network Doha Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, vice-chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation (QF), and chairperson of Hamad Bin Khalifa University's (HBKU) Board of Trustees, saw HBKU commemorate its Class of 2025 on Sunday. Honouring the collective and individual achievements of close to 300 students, this year's graduation ceremony marked a significant milestone for HBKU and Qatar's investment in higher education. Speaker of the Shura Council His Excellency Hassan bin Abdullah Al Ghanim also joined the proceedings at the Qatar National Convention Centre, along with government officials, HBKU's senior leadership, the colleges' deans, university faculty and staff, as well as the graduates' families and close friends. HBKU's Class of 2025 consists of 293 students, including 73 Qataris, who graduated from 35 academic programmes, receiving PhD, Juris Doctor, master's, and bachelor's degrees taught at HBKU's College of Islamic Studies (CIS), College of Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Science and Engineering (CSE), College of Law, College of Health and Life Sciences, and College of Public Policy. In his remarks, Dr. Ahmad M. Hasnah, HBKU president, reflected on the importance of values and ethics in navigating today's complex global challenges. He affirmed that ethical principles are the foundation for a meaningful life and impactful work. Addressing the graduates, he encouraged them to let wisdom guide their decisions, define success on their own terms without falling into the trap of comparison, and embrace a lifelong pursuit of knowledge that expands their horizons through conventional and creative means. This year's keynote was delivered by His Excellency Dr. Abdulaziz bin Nasser Al Khalifa, president of the Civil Service and Government Development Bureau, and secretary-general of the National Planning Council. He said, 'Today's ceremony is not only to celebrate the graduation of the largest cohort the university has seen since its establishment, but also your assumption of the scientific responsibility that requires you to mature ideas and believe in enlightening the mind and using it to respond to the shifts and fluctuations of time. 'Since its establishment in 2010, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, which bears a name that is dear to our hearts, has never been a mere academic institution, but rather an ambitious vision to be a platform to prepare change-makers.' In his address, student speaker, Abdulaziz Abdullah Al Obaidli, particularly emphasised the community and personal impact of their academic journey, saying: 'Today marks the beginning of a lifelong commitment to responsibility and progress. Graduation is not a final destination, but rather a true starting point toward shaping the future.' 'Hamad Bin Khalifa University is more than a hub for education - it is a nurturing home and fertile ground where students' dreams flourish,' he added. 'It is a space for forming lifelong friendships in which students are encouraged to not only seek answers, but to pursue the questions that shape their understanding and drive them to become better individuals.' The celebration also featured the HBKU Excellence Awards, which highlighted especially remarkable achievements of HBKU faculty from the past year. Her Excellency Sheikha Hind and Dr. Hasnah presented awards in three categories: the Research Excellence Award was given to Dr. Gordon McKay, College of Science and Engineering, and Dr. Ilias Bantekas, College of Law, for outstanding research recognised by the wider academic community; the Teaching Excellence Award was received by Dr. Tareq Al Ansari, College of Science and Engineering, honouring exceptional knowledge-transfer and pedagogy; and the Service Excellence Award was given to Dr. Mohammed Ghaly, College of Islamic Studies, celebrating his extraordinary service to the university community. Noting the Awards' deeper significance, Dr. Ala Al Fuqaha, acting provost and associate provost for Teaching and Learning, said: 'These awardees demonstrate how HBKU attracts and enables faculty that pursue and achieve genuine impact in their disciplines. They go above and beyond to advance their fields, empower students' academic journeys, and ultimately serve their communities, at home and abroad.' Commenting on HBKU's growing alumni community, Dr. Maryam Hamad Al Mannai, vice-president for Student Affairs, said: 'Our Office of Student Affairs nurtures a diverse and enriching academic environment that facilitates active engagement and continuous growth among its students. Our alumni are outstanding individuals who carry an appreciation of service to their communities and lifelong personal development, which makes them ambassadors for our university and their own societies.'
Qatar Tribune
06-05-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
Sheikha Moza attends QF's 2025 Convocation ceremony
DOHA: Chairperson of Qatar Foundation Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser has attended the 2025 Convocation ceremony, where over 1,000 students from across Qatar Foundation's higher education ecosystem were celebrated for their achievements – and stepped into their future. Vice Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation HE Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani was also in attendance at the milestone ceremony in the lives of graduates and the story of Qatar Foundation (QF), held at Qatar National Convention Centre, together with ministers and dignitaries, university deans and faculty members, and families of the members of QF's Class of 2025. Speaking at the event, Sheikha Mozasaid: 'Congratulations to our graduates and your families. Let this day be, not the end of your studies, but the beginning of your journey of lifelong learning. While a degree is important in securing financial and job security, always remaining open to new ideas and knowledge is essential for spiritual and emotional wellbeing, enabling us to overcome prejudice and preconceptions.' 2025 marks QF's 30th anniversary – three decades of impact, innovation, and opportunity in education, science and research, and community development, made possible through QF's belief in the power of knowledge and its commitment to contributing to the human and social advancement of Qatar, the region, and the world. In that time, more than 11,000 students have graduated from universities at QF, with its alumni going on to make their mark nationally and internationally as leaders, innovators, humanitarians, and drivers of positive change. Minister of Education and Higher Education HELolwah bint Rashid bin Mohammed Al Khaterwho attended the Convocation ceremony, said: 'As we celebrate the graduates of Qatar Foundation, we also pause to reflect on a legacy that extends far beyond the classroom. 'For three decades, QF has redefined the role of education – not as a destination, but as a continuous journey toward inquiry, purpose, and innovation. It is a model rooted in our national values, yet open to the world; one that equips learners to lead with insight and integrity. 'The Ministry of Education and Higher Education takes pride in supporting this vision – one that continues to shape Qatar's path toward a future that is inclusive, enlightened, and grounded in knowledge.' The graduates of the Class of 2025 – each of whom, during the ceremony, walked through the Door to the Future, a Convocation tradition symbolizing the start of the next phase of their life's journey – span 74 nationalities, with 61 per cent being female and 39 per cent being Qatari nationals. 'At QF, we are very proud of the dedicated work done by graduating students,' said Francisco Marmolejo, President of Higher Education and Education Advisor, QF. 'We are confident that they received top, world-class education, and that they nurtured a strong sense of professionalism, ethics, and community service at Qatar Foundation. This year's graduating class is especially important for us, because this is one of the most impactful ways to continue celebrating 30 years of remarkable achievements of Qatar Foundation. 'Our Convocation is much more than just a ceremony – not even the end of a journey for our graduating class, but rather an opportunity to recognize the hard work of students, to appreciate the support of their families, and to celebrate new beginnings.' The keynote speaker at the 2025 Convocation ceremony was entrepreneur Will Ahmed, Founder and CEO of health wearable company WHOOP, who said: 'Education City is a special place that brings together students from all over the world. It's an honour to celebrate the graduates.' Reflecting on the opportunity to speak to the graduating class, he said: 'It's very meaningful. The diversity in this class isn't just about geography or culture – it's about mindset, ambition, and the unique paths these students are on. They represent the next generation of leaders in fields ranging from science and medicine to policy, design, and beyond. 'When I graduated from college, I was deeply committed to building a company, but I also faced a lot of skepticism even from people close to me. Graduation can be daunting. It's the beginning of a new chapter, and it's easy to feel pressure to meet expectations set by others. My goal is to help these graduates feel empowered to pursue their dreams and trust their own convictions. 'I hope they leave feeling confident in their ability to build – whether it's a company, a community, or a life that reflects their values. You don't need to have every step mapped out. What you do need is conviction, curiosity, and the courage to begin.' During the ceremony, 16 members of the Class of 2025 received the QF Excellence Award, which celebrates students who have gone above and beyond throughout their educational journey at QF. This year, over 100 applications were submitted, with a review committee representing every university within QF overseeing the selection process. Dr Samah Gamar, Director, Academic Affairs, QF, said: "We designed the QF Excellence Award to capture the full arc of the student experience at Education City – from intellectual rigor and interdisciplinary thinking to social responsibility and career readiness. 'And this year's awardees represent the very best of what QF's multiversity ecosystem offers – students who transcend disciplinary boundaries and channel their knowledge into real-world impact.' Recipients were recognized for their originality, interdisciplinary thinking, and commitment to community impact, with work ranging from AI-driven sustainability research to clinical innovations using virtual reality. Many demonstrated leadership beyond the classroom—organizing cultural events, launching national campaigns, and contributing to global conferences and local partnerships – and uplifted others through their mentorship and the inclusive initiatives they have spearheaded. "What makes these students exceptional is not just what they know, but what they have done with that knowledge,' said DrGamar. 'Each recipient of the QF Excellence Award has made tangible contributions to their communities, their disciplines, and to the broader society. And each of our awardees is a reflection of Qatar Foundation's mission – to unlock human potential and develop well-rounded leaders prepared to address the challenges of our time,' said Dr Gamar. QF's higher education ecosystem includes its own Hamad Bin Khalifa University, and seven international partner universities: Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar; Georgetown University in Qatar; HEC Paris, Doha; Northwestern University in Qatar; Texas A&M University at Qatar; Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar; and Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar. The alumni who have graduated from these universities – and the thousands continuing their academic journey within them – benefit from learning within the unique, interconnected environment of knowledge that QF has built and evolved over the past 30 years. They gain a world-class education in fields ranging from medicine, engineering, art and design, communications, and international affairs to computer science, Islamic studies, law and public policy, humanities and social sciences, and business. The integrated nature of QF's ecosystem allows its students to take courses at different universities that stand just yards from each other; have real-world experience of scientific research and tech entrepreneurship, including transforming their university startups into commercial enterprises; and cultivate a sense of citizenship and a desire for personal growth through leading and supporting community programs, becoming involved in volunteering, and benefiting from opportunities for cross-cultural understanding and exploring new interests.
