International School, a change he refers to as‘ significant.’ School for him does not mean academia alone but an array of extra-curricular activities offered on a silver platter:“ There are many activities such as MUN, piano exams which we do in Qatar, chances we would normally not receive in India mostly because of the high competition there. It is relatively easier to be involved in these activities here in Qatar.” Participating in inter-school debates, road races and competitions Johann has made the most of whatever has come his way thus far. Owing to his optimist nature there is no doubt that he has already begun his success story.
He enjoys diversity among people and feels that it adds colour to one’ s personality. He calls Qatar a‘ get-away’ however beautifully describes it as“… living there forever, you are on vacation but it is a never-ending vacation!” However, Johann suggests that anyone who comes to Qatar especially adolescents should plan ahead:“ Think on your feet and be aware of your surroundings. Obviously the law is very different here so you must take that into consideration as well.”
In terms of higher education, Toqa believes that universities in Qatar offer quality education. Moreover Qatar as a society offers professions and opens fields of work and study that have a wide range. A vibrant personality, Toqa has thus far taken part in MUN conferences, Qatardebates and the STEM competitions:“ We love Qatar … there are fun activities we can be involved in.” The appreciation Toqa displays for this nation is evident in the twinkle in her eye when she speak about her home town!“ I would not advice you to live in Doha because it is a very busy place. Al Wakrah is a nice place to live in as I have lived most of the years and it is a comfortable place.”
with people around the world,“... especially here at THIMUN Qatar: I’ ve met with so many delegates from the USA, Indonesia and Sudan... to collaborate and work together to solve world problems.” An aspiring Medical student, Reem explains how Weill Cornell Qatar offers activities such as workshops where they teach high school students the basic about medicine. This gives insight to young minds and becomes a motivating factor in more ways than one.
To Reem, Qatar does not only represent a prosperous country with employment opportunities but it is also an entertainment hub;“ right now, Qatar is preparing
Toqa Darwish
A 16-year-old girl with spunk. When she first arrived from Egypt, she was enrolled in numerous schools before entering Mesaieed International School, her current alma mater. According to her, she has enjoyed every moment of every school experience and it has ensured that she gains for herself a host of friends from a multitude of cultural backgrounds:“ I have a lot of friends in Qatar and I feel very comfortable here. I feel I can fit in with them in the community and society.”
30 Society
Reem Al Janahi
Speaking with immense pride about Qatar, her home country, Reem Al Janahi of Qatar Academy Doha stated;“ It provides a lot of high quality services in areas such as education, health and communicating with people around the world. The area that I would like to focus is very dear to my heart and it is education.” This 9th grader describes Qatar as a benevolent land that is concerned about educating the underprivileged around the world so that it could take part in creating better societies. She feels that Qatar has a school for everyone depending on what is offered and this allows youngsters to work to stage the CATS musical and they bring in other artistes to the country as well. A lot of festivals take place especially cultural treats in Souq Waqif where you can learn about the culture of Qatar.” Qatar is a nation that is developing at lightning speed yet it has not discarded its humble beginnings. In fact the country and its people celebrate it and as a citizen, Reem too feels that everyone who visits Qatar, regale in its culture and traditions have lesson that they can acquire for life. When asked what message she would like to impart, this was her response:“ Take every opportunity you are handed. Make the most of it, have fun and make friends!”