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:

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.

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 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.