The greatest embodiments of Qatar Foundation’s globally unique education ecosystem are its skilled and values-driven students – and across its schools and universities, 16 of these students have been recognized through the 19th edition of the Qatar Education Excellence Award. 

The students received 10 gold medals and six platinum medals under the Award, which every year honors academically distinguished Qatari students.

And they have spoken of their pride and joy at the accolade – while emphasizing how learning within Qatar Foundation’s (QF) integrated education system has opened up opportunities for leadership, innovation, and growth.

Hamad Khalifa Al Yafei, a sixth-grade student at QF’s Qatar Academy Doha and a Platinum Medal recipient, recalled the moment of winning: “At first, I couldn’t believe it; I felt joy, excitement, and gratitude that my hard work had paid off.” And his family’s pride made the moment even more special: “They hugged me and called me a champion - we celebrated as if it were a dream.” 

Through his ‘Baraka’ app, which connects those with surplus resources to those in need, and his ‘We Are All Winners’ initiative that promotes respect and teamwork in sports, Al Yafei has focused on creating positive impact. “True victory,” he says, “is winning with character, not just results.”

And he credits the supportive learning environment at QF for his growth. “This award is only the beginning,” he says. “I want to continue learning, innovating, and representing QF’s values wherever I go.”

Waad Al-Maadeed, a student at QF partner university Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q), has always viewed excellence as a lifelong commitment rather than a fleeting achievement. “Excellence is a way of life,” she says. “True success is leaving a positive impact wherever we belong.”

Her decision to study at QF reflects this belief, allowing her to embrace a global education while staying rooted in her Qatari identity. “Holding onto our identity doesn’t contradict openness,” she says. “The deeper our roots, the more confidently we engage with the world. That’s what my university represents, a global mindset with a local spirit.”

A recipient of the Platinum Medal and first place in the undergraduate category, Al-Maadeed sees the award as recognition of dedication and perseverance, not simply grades. “It was the moment hard work became tangible,” she says. “I’m grateful to QF and GU-Q for nurturing leadership and initiative, and for creating an environment that turns ambition into meaningful impact in the community.”

Hissa bint Khalid Yahya bin Abbas Al Khuzaei, a graduate with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design from QF partner university Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar, and recipient of the Gold Award for Academic Excellence, transformed a personal observation into a thesis exploring the pressures of cultural adaptation and the psychological well-being of the Indian community in Qatar.

“My project began with simple observations,” she says. “At Souq Al Haraj, I realized how essential this community is to daily life.”

Over two semesters, her research, which included an interview with India’s ambassador to Qatar, developed into a proposal for an Indian cultural center in the former Gulf Cinema in Najma. “Working within the existing theater pushed me to think more creatively about adaptive reuse and design,” she added.

Speaking about her award, she says, “My feelings were a mixture of pride and gratitude, but the most moving moment was when my father said, ‘I never doubted you would win this award. If anyone deserves it, it’s you’. 

“QF became a space that gave me clarity and creative support. This award is not the end, but rather a starting point for the next stage of my journey.”

Fatima Al-Janahi, an alumna of QF partner university Texas A&M University at Qatar and recipient of the Education Excellence Award in the Master’s category, having received her master’s degree from Texas A&M University’s home campus in the US, describes the recognition as the culmination of years of dedication. “The application process was a deep review of my research journey,” she says. “It’s an indescribable feeling of pride and gratitude to see that hard work honored.

“The journey wasn’t easy. But the encouragement of my family and professors eased the burden and reminded me why I began.” 

“This award is not just academic recognition; it’s an acknowledgment of a long journey of patience and hard work, and of the immense value of humanitarian support.”

For Shaikha Khalid Al Nasr, a student at QF’s Tariq Bin Ziad School and winner of the Gold Award for Scientific Excellence, her portfolio of achievements was not merely a collection of certificates, but a continuous learning journey.

“Managing my time and multiple responsibilities was the biggest challenge I faced,” she explains, “but thanks to my determination and the support I received, I was able to succeed.”

Her award-winning recycling project with the ‘Bina Foundation’ began with a simple goal: raising awareness about pollution. As she says: “I learned that art can be a powerful tool for raising awareness, and that promoting responsibility and recycling contributes to creating a better life for future generations.

“My school was a supportive and stimulating environment. It encouraged me to think, innovate, and participate in various competitions and initiatives. My teachers' guidance and confidence in me had a significant impact on shaping my character and developing my skills."

And her advice to girls who share the same dreams she held? "Believe in yourselves, let ambition be your driving force, and don't be afraid of challenges. Every step makes a difference."

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