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:

Laura Dunn

Chief Operating Officer, HSBC Bank Middle East Limited

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

Maryam Wahid

Maryam Wahid is a British photographer and consultant, leading Tasweer Photography Festival's Program and Outreach. Her award-winning work explores identity, migration, and belonging, with exhibitions worldwide. She also judged the National Portrait Gallery's Hold Still project.
 
Watch the full interview.

Omar Abd El-Aziz Al-Nama

Omar is the Assistant Undersecretary for Special Education Affairs at the Ministry of Education and Higher Education. He previously worked as the Director of the Evaluation Department in Schools and the Assistant Director of the Government Schools Affairs Department, as well as a teacher at all educational levels during the years (1998-2006). Omar holds a Bachelor's degree in Education from Qatar University.
 
 

Robert Tripoli

With nearly three decades of experience, Robert Tripolo is a skilled Electronic Engineer specializing in sales, marketing, and business development in the automotive sector. He has successfully launched businesses from the ground up, including establishing Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) as the new importer in Finland and Iceland. His extensive expertise also includes creating Fiat’s commercial department in India, where he spearheaded export operations and business growth.

Watch the interview.

Sebastian Betancur

With a background in architecture, sculpture, and museum practice, Sebastián blends the sensibilities of a landscape architect, urbanist, and maker to create public art masterplans and interventions. As a curator, artist, and fabricator, he works across Latin America, the Caribbean, and the WANA region, focusing on mobility, global politics, and local ecologies.

Teresa Albor

Teresa Albor is a British-American artist, designer, entrepreneur, and activist, currently working across London, Doha, and Dhaka. A cultural producer, she supports the work of others, collaborates with change-makers, and leverages social enterprise to drive positive impact.

Khalid Al-Ali

Advisor at the Minister Office, Minister of Education & Higher Education

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.

 

Mulshankur Binoy Sobnack

Dr Binoy is an experienced lecturer in Physics and Mathematics, joined OUC-LJMU, Qatar in the summer 2021 as a senior lecturer in mathematics, bringing along with him more than 20 years of experience of working in Universities in the UK. With a vast experience in academia, Dr Binoy holds a PhD in Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics from Trinity College, University of Cambridge.

Watch the interview.

Abdullah Mohamed AL-Baker

Abdullah AlBaker brings a wealth of experience in architecture, urban planning, and value engineering. Throughout his career, Abdulla has held numerous leadership roles, including serving on the Qatari Engineering Society's board and founding the Architects Association under QSE. He has also represented Qatar as a member of the executive board in the Organization of Arab Architects, advancing architectural standards and innovation across the region.

Watch the interview here.

Dr. Samer Ahmed

Founder and CEO of ClearExhaust LLC and Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Qatar University, holds a PhD from the University of Cambridge, specializing in combustion, emissions, and alternative fuels. Dr. Ahmed has led numerous high-impact research projects funded by government and industry, earning recognition for his innovation and excellence. He is also a global finalist for the British Council Study UK Alumni Award in the Entrepreneurship category.

Watch the full interview.