New york city: Qatar Foundation alumni, based in the US and Canada, gathered at a significant event to reconnect and strengthen their ties with each other, and with the ecosystem and nation that shaped them.
According to Qatar News Agency, the first Qatar Foundation Alumni Chapter Forum: US and Canada was attended by HE Vice Chairperson of Qatar Foundation Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al-Thani. The event brought together graduates from universities at Qatar Foundation (QF) who are now working and studying in North America. The forum facilitated connections, allowed participants to share their experiences, and helped build networks of knowledge and support.
Organized by the Alumni Office within QF's Higher Education division, the New York City forum was sponsored by Hamad Medical Corporation and the Qatar Cultural Attache Office at the Embassy of the State of Qatar in Washington D.C. The keynote speech was delivered by HE Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al-Thani.
The Qatar Foundation Alumni Chapter for the US and Canada, established in 2024, supports over 500 QF graduates pursuing impactful careers and advancing their studies in North America. This chapter is the first international alumni chapter launched by QF, with a UK equivalent following its initiation.
QF alumni across the US and Canada are now contributing in fields such as healthcare, education, engineering, technology, business, and cultural sectors, taking on roles as doctors, lawyers, educators, and artists.
"At Qatar Foundation, we are deeply proud of the global reach and the positive impact that Qatar's Education City university graduates continue to make around the world," said Francisco Marmolejo, President of Higher Education and Education Advisor, QF. He emphasized the importance of maintaining close ties with QF alumni to strengthen the global community and foster collaboration, mentorship, and the exchange of ideas.
Alumni at the forum also heard from Qatari entrepreneur Sheikha Mayes bint Hamad Al-Thani, a Georgetown University in Qatar graduate and Managing Director of the US-Qatar Business Council. Additionally, Dr. Mouhamed Yazan Al Ismail, an alumnus of Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, received the QF Alumni Legacy Award for his societal contributions in healthcare.
During the forum, Dr. Al Ismail shared his story alongside Dr. Karim Ginema, CEO and co-founder of EndoMD Health, a Virginia-based startup focused on pediatric care, and a graduate of QF's Hamad Bin Khalifa University, before a networking reception.
"Our global alumni vision began in June 2024 with the launch of our first international chapter in the United States and Canada, and we are proud to see this chapter grow into an active and thriving community," said Asmaa Al Kuwari, Manager of Alumni Engagement, QF. She highlighted the significance of hosting a global alumni forum to connect, exchange ideas, and celebrate achievements, especially given the growing alumni presence in North America.
Since its establishment 30 years ago, over 11,000 students have graduated from QF's universities, including six US partner universities.