British Council Qatar’s Podcast Series

Through an in-depth understanding of Qatar and the UK, Dr. Waseem Kotoub leads the development and delivery of effective, sustainable and corporately aligned cultural relations between the two geographies, and also within the wider context of the Gulf, drawing on the UK’s cultural assets and thereby strengthening collaboration with the wider UK and Qatar.

Watch the full interview here.

Mr Neerav Patel is His Majesty’s Ambassador to the State of Qatar since January 2024. With extensive senior diplomatic experience in the Middle East and South Asia, he has worked for the past 7 Prime Ministers in London on foreign, security and development policy in a range of roles at the centre of the UK government. His work has focused on strategic policy-making, international terrorism, and global economic and energy issues.

Watch the full interview here

Hessa Khalil Al Suwaidi, a visionary leader, founded and chairs KON Group. Renowned for her expertise in women's empowerment , management, business and cultural diplomacy, media consultancy , she is a certified TOT, Emotional Intelligence Coach, and Life Coach. Her leadership, characterized by collaboration, cultural sensitivity, and forward-thinking, has enabled KON Group to thrive.

Watch the full interview here.

David Wilson is a highly experienced educator and Principal, holding a variety of educational and leadership roles in established and start-up schools across the globe. Passionate about students receiving every opportunity to realise their own potential, he believes strongly in creating a safe and engaging learning community, underpinned by clear values and a culture of aspiration. His leadership philosophy centres around the development of a trusting workplace culture.

Watch the interview here.

Minal Saluja transitioned from the aviation industry to co-founding Inspire Management Training Centre with her husband in 2018. Her passion for education and development has taken Inspire to new heights, offering innovative training programs that empower individuals and businesses. With a unique blend of industry expertise and a drive to make a difference, Minal continues to lead Inspire with vision and enthusiasm, ensuring each program delivers meaningful impact.

Watch the interview here.

Abdulrahman Al-Ishaq is the Director of Public Art at Qatar Museums, responsible for developing a holistic Public Art program aligned with QM's strategic goals. He previously served as Master Planning Manager at Lusail City and holds degrees from Columbia University and Ajman University. Abdulrahman has also been a board member at GORD, IN-Q Enterprises, and led the Technical Committee of Artworks under the Supervisory Committee for Beautification of Public Places. Watch the interview here.     

Sean has 31 years experience in education with 18 years as a Headteacher. Sean is also a trained BSO (British Schools Overseas) school inspector. As a BSO Team inspector, he acts on behalf of the UK DFE (Department For Education) measuring the performance of British International schools. In the past Sean has been a Lead facilitator for the NCLM on all their major leadership development programmes. He has led DESS to two Outstanding Inspection judgements in 2017 and 2023.

Watch the interview.

Gonzalo is an ecologist recognized as a global leader in the promotion of sustainability. As executive director of Earthna, he guides the center’s mandate of enhancing Qatar’s role within the global sustainability policy ecosystem. His previous positions including Managing Director for External Affairs at Pluspetrol and Head of Biodiversity at the Global Environmental Facility.

Watch the interview here.

Laura is a seasoned finance professional with 20 years of experience spanning investment banking, finance, and operations. Holding a Master’s in Business Mathematics, she has worked in Germany, England, the Philippines, and India before relocating to Qatar in 2017. Her career focuses on driving organizational value through strategic initiatives and team empowerment. Beyond work, Laura enjoys family time with her husband and three children, as well as traveling and outdoor exploration.

Interview

Dr. Khalid Abdulla Al-Ali serves as a consultant to Qatar’s Minister of Education and Higher Education, drawing from a distinguished career in academia and policy. Formerly Assistant Undersecretary for Higher Education, his leadership has spanned roles such as Associate Vice President at Qatar University and Chair of UNESCO's COMEST in Paris. His contributions to the fields of Genetics, Education, and Ethics are widely recognized, with numerous publications to his name.

Watch the full interview.