At Qatar Foundation (QF), students are empowered to pursue their sporting passions while receiving the academic support, personal guidance, and life skills they need to thrive.
From early years to graduation, QF schools take a holistic approach to education, nurturing well-rounded individuals who succeed both in competitive sports and in life.
Jassim al-Hussaini, 18, recently graduated from Qatar Academy Al Khor, part of QF’s Pre-University Education. A member of both the Qatar Cycling Federation and the Qatar Triathlon Federation, he has represented his country locally and on the international stage multiple times.
“I realised I wanted to pursue sport seriously around the age of 15,” he explained. “At that point, I saw the potential to grow, compete, and represent my country. The discipline it required gave me a sense of purpose, and I began structuring my life around both athletic and academic goals – and finding this balance taught me the importance of planning and discipline.
“I trained six days a week, usually early mornings or evenings, which meant I had to stay organised with my schoolwork. I often used breaks during the day to study or complete assignments. I also made sure I got enough rest because recovery is just as important as training.”
According to Al Hussaini, QF played a key role in helping him develop into a well-rounded student – extending beyond academics and sports. During his time at the school, he learned to lead initiatives and collaborate with others, such as organising a charity run earlier this year. These experiences strengthened his leadership, resilience, and teamwork – qualities that supported both his academic success and development as a student-athlete.
Maryam Hamad al-Qahtani, a Grade 4 student at PUE’s Tariq Bin Ziad School, is an aspiring basketball player. She joined the Qatar Basketball Federation in October 2024 after her PE teachers recognised her talent and encouraged her to pursue her passion.
Al-Qahtani trains around eight hours a week in addition to taking part in basketball activities at school, so she has to plan her time carefully – with the help of her parents.
“My parents support me all the time,” she explained. “They help me stay organised so I can balance my schoolwork, training, and still have time to rest and recharge.
“Meanwhile, my teachers always encourage me to do my best. They recognise my achievements and celebrate them in front of my classmates, which really motivates me and fills me with honour.”
Al-Qahtani says that QF has given her incredible opportunities, and one of her most unforgettable moments was participating in QF’s National Sport Day celebrations at Education City, which she described as the true starting point of her basketball dreams.
