Celebrating 90 Years: British Council Qatar’s Podcast Series 

The British Council’s 90th Anniversary celebrations are in full swing, and we invite you to listen to our podcast series as part of the UK-Qatar Festival 2024. In collaboration with I Wanna Grow podcast, this series showcases the remarkable stories of partnership and impact that define our legacy.

With up to 90 compelling interviews, the podcast features leaders, innovators, and cultural changemakers who have been pivotal in strengthening the bond between the UK and Qatar. Each episode brings to life inspiring narratives of creativity and shared achievements. Explore the stories and get to know the voices behind decades of collaboration. 

Tune in today and be part of the celebration!

This is only the beginning - check back soon for more episodes:

Dr. Waseem Kotoub

Country Director, British Council Qatar

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.

Neerav Patel

His Majesty’s Ambassador to the State of Qatar

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

Hissa Khalil AlSuwaidi

Co-Founder, Chairperson of KON Group

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

CEO and Principal, GEMS Wellington School Qatar

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

Managing Director, Inspire Management Training Centre

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

Director of Public Art, Qatar Museums

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.     

Muna Al-Bader

Contemporary Artist

Known as the "Artist of Blue", Muna is a highly acclaimed Qatari artist whose work is inspired by the captivating beauty of her hometown, Doha.

With a remarkable talent for capturing the essence of the sea and sky, she skillfully explores the diverse shades of blue, infusing each with its own symbolic significance. She actively advocates for artistic expression and cultural exchange and her journey serves as a powerful testament to the transformative power of pursuing one's passion.
 
Interview

Sean Sibley

Principal, Doha English Speaking School (DESS)

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 Castro de la Mata & Shireen A. Obeidat

Earthna

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.

 

Kate Jackson

Kate Jackson is an accomplished educational leader with over 24 years of experience, currently serving as Principal at King’s College Doha. She has played a key role in developing the Senior School, implementing the IGCSE and A-Level curriculum, and improving teaching quality through innovative strategies like the "King’s Tapestry." Kate is known for fostering collaboration, promoting student progress, and leading professional development.

Watch the full interview.