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:

Huda Walid

A motivated, energetic, passionate, and detail-oriented radio host,VO artist, Master of Ceremonies and Sports Venue Announcer with over 18 years of experience in the radio industry who is always excited to entertain, inform, enlighten, and engage with listeners. My experiences range from hosting live shows, conducting informative and compelling live/pre-recorded interviews, voicing radio & TV advertisements/documentaries, to operating audio consoles and many more.

 

Watch the full interview.

Julia Gonnella

Dr. Julia Gonnella is Director of the Lusail Museum in Doha, leading its vision and planning for a 2030 opening. Formerly Director of Doha’s Museum of Islamic Art, she oversaw its 2022 renovation and curated exhibitions like Baghdad: Eye’s Delight. She previously worked at Berlin’s Museum of Islamic Art and participated in Aleppo excavations. She holds degrees from SOAS and a PhD from Tübingen University.

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.

Khalifa Al Haroon

Khalifa Al Haroon is the Founder and CEO of the ILQ Media Network, RaqamiTV and Store974.  He is also a founding partner of PayLater.  Khalifa currently holds the position of Executive Advisor to the General Secretary at the Qatar Football Association and was recently appointed as CEO of Qatar E-sports Federation. Additionally, Khalifa is the Chairman of the Qatar eNational Team. 

Watch the interview here.

Khalifa Al Yafei

Dr. Khalifa Al Yafei, CEO of Qatar Finance & Business Academy, is a prominent leader in higher education with over 12 years of experience. He has held key roles at institutions like Northumbria University Qatar, Sidra Medicine, and HBKU. Dr. Al Yafei holds a PhD from Lancaster University, an MSc from Penn State, and a Bachelor's in engineering from the University of Leeds.

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

Maha Alshebani

Maha Alshebani is the Country Lead for Qatar–UK relations and Senior Coordinator for Northern European relations at Qatar Museums, within the Cultural Diplomacy team in the Chairperson’s Office.

She previously worked in Strategy Development and International Cooperation under the CEO’s Office.

Maha holds a BA in Communications from Northwestern University in Qatar, a Politics minor from Georgetown University, and an MA in Diplomacy and Culture from SOAS, University of London.

Maryam Al Saad

Ms. Maryam Al Saad is CEO of the Katara Public Diplomacy Center and Secretary General of GPDNET. A leader in cross-cultural dialogue, she promotes public diplomacy and global cooperation. Since 2010, she has boosted Katara’s international profile and now leads initiatives showcasing Qatar’s heritage and fostering global dialogue on peace, prosperity, and sustainability.

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.

Mr. Zlatan Fazlic & Dr. Ozgur Mert Hasan

Zlatan Fazlić and Özgür Esen are accomplished music educators and performers. Zlatan, a seasoned choral conductor and former UK department head, now directs Qatar Music Academy and leads its award-winning Youth Choirs. Özgür, a prizewinning Turkish pianist with a doctorate from St. Petersburg Conservatory, serves as Principal and Head of Western Music at the Academy, performing globally and mentoring young talent.