This edition of our Prominent People in Qatar series features Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, a young, dynamic and versatile leader, who has been playing an instrumental role in enhancing the level of education in Qatar.

Sheikha Hind, who is the daughter of the former Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani and the sister of the current Amir HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, assumed her position as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Qatar Foundation in February 2016. 

Sheikha Hind also serves as the Vice-Chairperson of the foundation where she spearheads its mission to support the economic and social development of Qatar. 

Her Excellency leads initiatives and programs in three core areas: education, science and research, and community development.

Sheikha Hind strongly believes in the transformational power of education in strengthening societies and building a better world.

As a leader, active global citizen, and mother, she is a true reflection of how women are at the forefront of Qatar’s transformative journey.

With a keen focus on inclusivity, Sheikha Hind announced earlier this year that 50 percent of all panelists at QF-based conferences and events will be women from 2020.

"It is my belief, and that of Qatar Foundation, that neither gender nor any other consideration should present a barrier to a person's development, their pursuit of opportunity, and their voice being heard in global conversations," she said. 

The 34-year-old thought leader regularly represents Qatar on global forums and events, voicing her opinions on innovation, sustainability, and societal change.

In a very powerful op-Ed, Sheikha Hind also drew the world's attention to how Qatar's focus on education has helped the country emerge stronger from the blockade. 

"In addition to creating opportunities for many curious young people, our investment in education has sent a message to our region and the world about how knowledge and innovation have no boundaries or constraints," she notes in the opinion piece.

Sheikha Hind also serves as the co-chairperson of the Joint Advisory Board of Northwestern University in Qatar; Chairperson of the Hamad Bin Khalifa University Board of Trustees; Founder of the Qatar Social Work Foundation; and Chairperson of the Board of Directors of Teach for Qatar.

Her Excellency holds an Executive MBA from HEC Paris in Qatar, a Master of Arts degree in Human Rights from University College London in the UK, and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Duke University in the US.

--

Make sure to check out our social media to keep track of the latest content.

Instagram - @qatarliving

Twitter - @qatarliving

Facebook - Qatar Living

Cover Image Credit: Education World Forum