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The Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) reaffirmed its commitment to the Middle East market with its participation at this year’s Qatar Travel Mart (QTM), held last week in Doha. Speaking to Gulf Times on the sidelines of the event, Xiaolong Wu, Senior Marketing Manager at MTA, said the fair offered a “special and meaningful” opportunity to reconnect with travel trade, airline, and media partners, to strengthen Malta’s visibility in Qatar and the wider GCC region. "This is our second time participating in QTM. We first attended in 2023, and this year felt even more special,” Wu said. “I met many familiar faces who remembered us from our previous visit. The Middle East market is warm, friendly, and people here truly engage in meaningful communication." She praised the organisation of the fair, noting that the quality of exhibitors and the level of interest from buyers demonstrated the region’s strong tourism potential. “From the buyers we met, we can feel the market has big potential. It’s a very good opportunity for us to explore more.” **media[389636]** According to Wu, experienced Middle Eastern travellers—many of whom have visited Europe multiple times—are increasingly seeking new, distinctive, and more premium destinations. For these high-end travellers, Malta offers a compelling blend of luxury, exclusivity, and rich heritage, with experiences that feel both familiar and refreshingly different. “People from this region are seasoned travellers who seek destinations that are new and distinctive — places they can tell their friends, ‘I’ve been somewhere different.’ Malta is exactly that kind of destination, not only through its history and culture but also through its cinematic appeal. Many iconic movies and series have been filmed across the islands, giving visitors the chance to explore locations featured in major productions like Jurassic World, Game of Thrones, and Gladiator,” she said.She highlighted several strengths that make Malta particularly attractive to visitors from Qatar and the neighbouring GCC countries. Safety, halal-friendly services, and a sense of cultural familiarity are among the key factors that resonate strongly with travellers from the region. "Travellers can rest assured that Malta is a very safe country. It is also a Muslim-friendly destination with halal-friendly dining options,” she said. “Historically, Malta has deep connections with Arabic culture, and even the Maltese language shares linguistic roots with Arabic. This helps visitors feel comfortable and relaxed — which sets the right mood for a perfect holiday". Beyond comfort, Malta’s deep history — stretching back 7,000 years — remains a major draw. Whether visitors seek archaeological sites, medieval architecture, cultural experiences, or Instagram-worthy backdrops, Malta delivers on multiple levels.As an island, it also offers abundant seaside experiences. “Guests can enjoy simple activities like a harbour tour or the Blue Grotto, or more luxurious options like hiring a yacht for a full day,” she said. Malta’s year-round pleasant weather, especially in winter, adds to its appeal for GCC travellers seeking a warm Mediterranean getaway. New tailored tourism experiences for 2026 “Looking ahead, Malta plans to develop more tailor-made travel experiences for the Middle East market in 2026. My recent visits to Qatar, Dubai, and Riyadh have shown that travellers from this region increasingly appreciate bespoke itineraries — whether that means exclusive cultural access, luxury escapes, or private, curated experiences,” Wu said.“Signature Maltese events such as the Rolex Middle Sea Race, the Mdina Classic Car Grand Prix, and the Valletta Baroque Festival offer world-class experiences that showcase Malta’s rich heritage and culture.”She added that Visit Malta, in collaboration with AVIAREPS (MTA’s Middle East Representative), has recently introduced its first-of-its-kind Private Jet Holiday Packages — that enables travellers seeking ultra-luxury experiences to book through concierge desks or top travel agencies across the GCC. “This allows us to curate exclusive Maltese experiences, including hidden gems, private tours, after-hours access to UNESCO sites, luxury yacht charters, and VIP cultural events for high-net-worth travellers who want something truly extraordinary,” Wu said.Wu also sees storytelling and cultural connections as powerful tools. The Maltese language, she noted, shares linguistic roots with Arabic—an angle MTA intends to highlight more in future content and marketing initiatives.Strengthening ties with regional travel agencies will also remain a core priority. “Travel agents here are extremely professional, and their clients are very loyal to them. Working closely with our trade partners ensures that Malta is presented accurately and effectively to travellers,” she said.Wu added that airline partnerships will continue to play a vital role, particularly as Malta aims to expand accessibility across the GCC region and beyond. She noted that Qatar Airways’ launch of direct flights to Malta in July 2025 — offering four non-stop flights per week between Doha and Malta — is a key airline partnership development that MTA warmly welcomed. **media[389635]** Personal bond with the Middle EastBeyond professional ambitions, Wu shared a personal admiration for the Middle East and expressed her desire to spend more time exploring its destinations. “Even though I come for work, I always find new and interesting places to discover. Doha has wonderful museums, shopping malls, and restaurants,” she said. She expressed gratitude for the hospitality shown during QTM, noting how many visitors and partners offered to show her around during future visits.“That was really touching. It made me feel welcomed and special. I hope I can come more often and experience the Middle East from different perspectives,” she said. “The region’s culture — and especially its people — are genuinely hospitable and welcoming, and spending more time here also helps me better understand what Middle Eastern travellers look for when planning their holidays.”As Malta positions itself to attract more travellers from Qatar and the wider GCC, Wu says the goal extends beyond tourism figures—it is about building long-term relationships.“For us, it’s not only about promoting Malta to the Middle East. It’s also about understanding the region, learning from it, and building real friendships,” Wu said.With renewed momentum from this year’s Qatar Travel Mart, Malta Tourism Authority looks set to deepen its engagement with the Middle East as travellers increasingly seek diverse, culturally rich, and year-round destinations like Malta. 

Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser on Thursday inaugurated Lawh Wa Qalam: MF Husain Museum at Qatar Foundation’s Education City, unveiling a landmark cultural space dedicated to the legendary modernist Maqbool Fida Husain.Conceived in close collaboration with the late artist and built on a promise made to him, the museum marks a historic addition to Qatar’s growing constellation of world-class museums.Among the invitees witnessing the inauguration was award-winning author, multimedia journalist, and cultural curator Sahar Zaman, who conducted one of the most widely watched interviews with Husain before his passing.With 25 years of experience and a celebrated career that includes founding Asia’s first arts web channel, Hunar TV, and authoring the acclaimed 2024 biography “Talat Mahmood: The Definitive Biography”, Sahar’s presence added a deeply personal dimension to the museum’s debut.Speaking with Gulf Times about her memories of the legendary artist, Sahar recalled her interviews with Husain during the last decade of his life—a period marked by creative urgency, global travel, and self-imposed exile.“I say with great pride and equal humility that MF Husain became a friend in the last and final decade of his life,” she said. “In his 90s, he was racing against time to finish his large-scale projects—Indian cinema, Arab civilization, and his final work Seero fi al Ardh.”She remembered interviewing him in Dubai, often accompanied by spontaneous moments that revealed his childlike energy. “I once sat with him in his red Ferrari for a short drive,” she said. “He told me the car would be part of an upcoming artwork. I laughed it off then—but a week later he flew to Italy to work on the Morano horses. His life moved at the pace of his Ferrari.”Reflecting on his creative vision, Sahar described Husain as “fearless”—an artist unmoved by judgment or controversy. “His strong brushstrokes and straight lines were a depiction of that fearlessness,” she said. “At 90-plus, he relocated to Doha to start afresh, create new work, and build a museum. His zest for life was unmatched.”Though his art stirred political controversies in India, Sahar believes time has reaffirmed his stature. “When the noise of those debates settles, it’s the genius of his work that shines. Collectors still vie for his art—just this year his Gram Yatra sold for a record $13.8 million. His significance remains unquestionable.”A promise fulfilled in DohaSahar described Lawh Wa Qalam as “a triumph of human spirit, unprecedented posthumous glory, and the honour of a promise made to him by Sheikha Moza.” She praised the museum not only as an artistic milestone but as a profound example of cultural stewardship.“It’s an exemplary display of a promise made and a promise kept,” she said. “Fourteen years have passed since Husain’s death, yet the commitment to build his museum was never forgotten. Sheikha Moza will be remembered in golden letters for preserving, showcasing, and reintroducing Husain to generations who might never have known him.”She added that the museum, positioned in Doha at the crossroads of East and West, will help bridge cultural narratives. “Lawh Wa Qalam will sit at the heart of the international art circuit,” she said. “It will not just preserve Husain’s story but create new dialogues between cultures.”A legacy for future generationsFor Sahar, the museum offers a powerful takeaway for visitors. “They will see that art takes time, struggle, and patience,” she said. “But when made with sincerity and purity, it becomes immortal and timeless.”She believes contemporary artists continue to draw lessons from Husain’s mastery. “His strokes—whether large canvases or tiny sketches—show extraordinary control and ease. And beyond technique, he was a once-in-a-generation mix of talent, showmanship, strategy, and marketing. He knew what to paint and how to sell.”As Qatar opens the doors to Lawh Wa Qalam, Sahar sees the museum not only as a tribute to a global icon but as a celebration of artistic resilience and cross-cultural understanding. “It brings together two worlds—India and Qatar—through the vision of a man who created his own language of modern Indian art,” she said.

A talented henna artist and digital creator, Nazma has become a beacon of compassion and creativity, using her signature “henna crowns” to restore confidence and joy to women battling cancer. Nazma’s story began in 2017 when she arrived in Doha with aspirations of becoming a teacher. Although she had the qualifications and a deep passion for education, finding a teaching position turned out to be far more difficult than she had imagined. Rather than lose hope, she turned back to her first love — art. Henna had captivated her since the age of 13, and what started as a personal creative outlet soon evolved into something much more meaningful: a calling.Growing up in a family that believed in giving back to the community, she naturally absorbed that spirit of service. After losing loved ones to cancer and witnessing how the disease often steals away a person’s confidence, she felt compelled to use her talent to bring comfort to others. This desire gave birth to the idea of creating henna crowns for women undergoing chemotherapy.“For many patients, the loss of hair is emotionally painful,” she says. “I wanted to do something that would help them feel beautiful, strong, and seen again.”Her henna crowns, intricate designs drawn directly on the scalp, quickly became a symbol of courage and hope. They are not simply artistic creations; they are emotional lifelines.Stories that touch the heartEvery crown tells a story, and some have stayed with Nazma forever. She remembers one patient who had moved to Qatar and received a cancer diagnosis just three months after arriving. The woman confided that, had she been back home, she might not have survived. Under the care of HMC and the Qatar Cancer Society, she not only recovered but also developed a deep cultural connection to Qatar, shaped by the compassion, support, and healing she experienced throughout her treatment.“This story filled my heart with so much gratitude,” Nazma says. “It reminded me why I do what I do.”Nazma’s artistry continues to grow. Recently, she introduced white henna and Jagua henna to her work. Jagua, a natural, fruit-based ink, creates a deep black pigment that stands out beautifully, especially on darker skin tones. It offers an alternative for patients whose skin tones do not show traditional henna well. White henna, a mix of body paint and body glue, adds another layer of creativity and personalisation to her designs.With every design, Nazma strives for safety, comfort, and individuality. Patch tests are always done before using new materials, and each crown is customised based on the patient’s story and preferences.The reactions from cancer patients are often deeply emotional, filled with smiles, tears, and heartfelt gratitude. Many express that the henna crowns help them feel confident again during one of the toughest phases of their lives. These moments fuel Nazma’s commitment.“Every story and every reaction pushes me to be more thoughtful, more creative, and more dedicated,” she says. “Their courage inspires my creativity.”Empowering women creators in QatarNazma’s work is not limited to henna. She plays an active role in Qatar’s female content creator community, which has grown significantly in recent years. Through mentorship, collaboration, and sharing her own experiences, she has become a supportive voice for women striving to build their presence online.Her initiative ‘Light Up’ is one example, a platform she created to help women showcase their work, share resources, and grow together. She is now developing new activities under ‘Light Up’ that focus on creative healing and community wellbeing.Beyond henna and digital content creation, Nazma’s artistic journey has expanded to photography. Alongside a friend, she launched ‘Her Photo Club’, a women-only photography space where participants can learn, practice, and connect through creative expression. With workshops, photowalks, and collaborative sessions, it has become the first women-led photography club in the region.This project reflects Nazma’s belief that creativity is a powerful tool for self-expression and healing.Behind her warm smile and uplifting content, Nazma has faced her own creative and personal challenges. During such times, she turns inward, toward her family, her faith, and the small grounding moments of daily life. A walk outdoors, journaling, prayer, or simply reconnecting with the little things that bring her joy often helps her reset. She also finds strength by reflecting on how far she has come.“That reminder always pushes me to keep going, with gratitude and creativity,” she says.Nazma is currently working on expanding her therapeutic art approach beyond henna. She plans to introduce painting-based healing sessions where women can express their emotions freely through art. To her, painting is a form of therapy, a space where the mind quiets and the heart speaks through colour and brushstrokes. She hopes to announce more details very soon.Looking ahead, Nazma envisions a future where her work reaches women across the region. She hopes to build a larger platform that inspires, connects, and empowers, balancing family life with creativity and meaningful community initiatives. She aims to collaborate with brands that share her values and expand her projects into new areas of social impact and artistic expression.Reflecting on her journey from a 13-year-old henna enthusiast to one of Qatar’s most inspiring creators, Nazma shares one message:“Follow your heart. People may doubt you, but if your gut says ‘go for it,’ trust yourself and go all in. Stay true to your intentions, work hard, and remember that passion mixed with authenticity can make anything possible.” 

In the post-Covid world, lifestyle priorities have shifted dramatically, with travel emerging as a key avenue for personal wellbeing and self-care. Among the most notable developments in the tourism sector is the remarkable surge in women-only travel. More women than ever are seeking safe, empowering, and stress-free experiences that allow them to step away from the pressures of daily life, according to travel experts.This trend spans all age groups, with women traveling solo, with friends, or in small organized groups to destinations around the globe. Social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and Pinterest have become crucial sources of inspiration. They help women discover new destinations, share experiences, and connect with like-minded travellers.This surge reflects not only a desire for adventure but also a broader shift toward independence, empowerment, and redefining how women experience the world.Shahana Ilyas, a Qatar-based group leader who organises women-only travel adventures, shares her perspective:"Women carry many responsibilities in everyday life, and many seek a break from their hectic routines," she says. "As a group leader, I try to include as many participants as possible. I negotiate with travel agencies to ensure trips remain affordable for everyone."She adds, "Often, husbands encourage their wives to join these trips. They take care of responsibilities at home, including children, to provide their wives with a much-needed break. It’s a positive sign of the changing world today."This sense of camaraderie, encouragement, and shared empowerment is a defining feature of women-only travel. Many travellers report that women-only groups allow them to explore more freely, try new activities, and engage with cultures in ways they may not feel comfortable doing in mixed-gender groups.**media[375224]**Why women-only travel is boomingWomen-only group travel is experiencing a surge in popularity for several key reasons. These trips provide a safe and supportive environment where participants can connect, share experiences, and enjoy the companionship of like-minded travellers. While traveling in a group, women can explore new destinations with confidence, knowing they are in a secure and comfortable setting.Beyond safety, group travel offers opportunities for adventure, self-discovery, and empowerment. Many women increasingly value experiences over material possessions, and these trips allow them to step away from daily routines and fully immerse themselves in new experiences.Seena Manojkumar, who recently travelled to Georgia from Qatar with a group of seven women, shares her experience: "Our group had visited several Indian cities before, but we had always dreamed of exploring an international destination together. Visiting Georgia, taking photos in traditional Indian sarees, and sharing this experience was truly unforgettable."She adds, "Joining women-only trips has also given me the confidence to travel alone. I now feel capable of planning my own trips independently, without relying on anyone else."**media[375222]**A Boost to tourismIndustry experts note that this trend is contributing significantly to the global tourism economy. Hotels, airlines, and tour operators are tailoring services specifically for women, from female-only accommodations and guided tours to wellness retreats and networking travel experiences.Firos Nattu, Co-Founder and General Manager at GoMosafer, which organises many female-only trips from Qatar, attributes the surge to several practical and psychological factors:"Advancements in technology allow women to stay connected while travelling abroad," he says. "This reduces insecurity and gives peace of mind to participants and their families."He adds, "Group tours give women the freedom to explore their interests in a supportive, judgment-free environment. They can take a break from daily responsibilities and traditional roles.""Additionally, travel has become more accessible thanks to a wider range of flight options, lower fares to many international destinations, including European countries, and the availability of safe, private homestays," he says. "As a result, inquiries for female-focused travel packages have risen significantly, and we have successfully organized numerous trips for women’s groups from Qatar."More than just a tripBeyond sightseeing, women-only travel offers a range of mental and wellbeing benefits. It provides a safe, comfortable space for relaxation, social connection, and personal empowerment.Sara Ahmed, a Doha-based mental health expert, explains:"Women feel more at ease being themselves without worrying about being watched or judged," she says. "This leads to greater relaxation and enjoyment during the trip."She continues, "These trips allow participants to step away from daily pressures, focus on self-care, and reflect on personal growth. They offer a therapeutic escape that nurtures both mind and body. Such breaks help women return to their daily routines with a refreshed mind, enabling them to perform at their best—whether managing family responsibilities or excelling at work.As more women embark on these journeys, the trend is expected to continue shaping the global travel industry, providing opportunities for women to explore the world, build confidence, and recharge from the demands of modern life.

Chinese artist, writer, and scholar Su Ning has officially launched his long-awaited autobiography, Sun and Night. The book traces his extraordinary artistic journey across continents, from the misty mountains of Guilin and the deserts of Sudan to the vibrant cultural landscape of Doha, offering readers a profound reflection on art, identity, and the universal language of creativity.Sun and Night is not just a chronicle of an artist’s life; it is a bridge between civilizations. Through the pages of this book, Su Ning revisits his years of cultural exploration in Africa, his artistic collaborations in the Gulf, and his lifelong quest to find harmony between Eastern philosophy and global artistic expression.“Art, to me, is both a mirror and a window,” says Su Ning.“It reflects who we are while opening pathways to understand others. My time in Qatar has deepened this belief — here, cultures meet in dialogue, not division.”Over the past two decades, Su Ning has gained recognition for his Pure Shadow Painting System — a distinctive style that blends Chinese aesthetics with global influences. His works have been exhibited and collected by institutions such as the British Museum, the National Library of Sudan, and the National Museum of Myanmar. He was recognized by the governments of Sudan and Myanmar for his contributions to cultural and artistic exchanges between China and Africa, and between China and Myanmar, helping to bridge many gaps.The book’s release carries special significance, reflecting Su Ning’s growing ties with the country’s art community and its commitment to fostering cultural dialogue.“Qatar is not only a hub of modern creativity but also a place that honours tradition,”he notes. “It’s where I’ve found a new platform to reflect on the past, create in the present, and envision a shared future.”Published in English, Sun and Night offers rare insights into Su Ning’s philosophy of “art as a way of living.” It invites readers to journey with him through deserts, rivers, and cities — each becoming a metaphor for human connection and resilience.The artist recently designed a symbolic light-wood miniature of the China-Qatar Friendship Memorial Sculpture, featuring a Chinese panda and an Arabian oryx standing side by side in harmony. The piece symbolizes the enduring friendship between China and Qatar, and he hopes it will soon be realized as a large-scale public sculpture in Doha upon approval from the Qatari authorities.

In an era marked by growing social divisions and online hostility, journalists from around the world convened to explore how the media can serve as a bridge for peace rather than a source of conflict.On October 18, 2025, the international peace NGO Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) hosted an online workshop titled “Beyond Conflict to Harmony: Peaceful Media, Connecting the World,” highlighting the vital role of ethical and empathetic journalism in fostering global harmony.At the heart of the discussion was Article 9 of HWPL’s Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) — a clause that emphasizes religious and ethnic harmony. This principle, though written as an international peace standard, was reinterpreted by journalists as a moral guideline for their everyday work. Participants discussed how reporting on religion and ethnicity often shapes public perception — and how responsible journalism can prevent misunderstandings that may otherwise fuel conflict.The event also highlighted HWPL’s International Religious Peace Academy (IRPA), which connects journalists from different faith and cultural backgrounds to produce joint stories on interreligious dialogue. Through these collaborations, HWPL aims to strengthen the role of media as an educator for peace rather than a messenger of division.Following the presentation of HWPL’s achievements over the past 11 years, the focus of the event was the regional discussion sessions, Oceania, the Middle East, and Africa.In Africa, journalists spoke about “conflict-sensitive reporting,” emphasizing the importance of language — avoiding terms that inflame ethnic or political tensions.In the Middle East, participants reflected on how Article 9 could serve as the foundation for future journalist training programs to bridge long-standing divides between religious communities.In Oceania, speakers noted that even in multicultural societies, peace journalism requires more than coexistence — it demands empathy and a shared editorial vision that nurtures inclusiveness.Bizuayehu Tadesse Werkelule, an Ethiopian journalist of Amhara Media Corporation shared his personal commitment: “As a journalist, I wish to leave a voice that builds bridges, not walls. I aim for my reporting to amplify the voices of peacemakers, focus on solutions rather than just problems, and contribute to a more informed and empathetic global community.”The workshop followed in the spirit of the 11th HWPL World Peace Summit held a month earlier in Cheongju, Republic of Korea, where over 800 global leaders reaffirmed their commitment to lasting peace.In particular, HWPL’s Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) continued to gain momentum, with parliamentary bodies across Latin America, Asia, and Africa adopting resolutions in its support. HWPL’s peace education was also institutionalized into public school curricula in countries such as Zambia and Mongolia, while the launch of the Solidarity of Religions’ Peace Committee (SRPC) strengthened interreligious collaboration worldwide. Concluding the workshop, HWPL announced plans to launch a biannual media forum, beginning with pilot collaborations involving journalists from Ethiopia, Egypt, Palestine, and Australia who participated in the event.

When the cries of children echo through the war-torn streets of Gaza, devastated by relentless Israeli attacks, very few can look away without feeling compelled to act. Among those who did something meaningful was a young Indian humanitarian, Sreereshmi Udayakumar, whose small act of solidarity has touched thousands of lives.Sreereshmi, a 24-year-old from Kayamkulam in Kerala’s Alappuzha district and the founder of the Koottu collective, coordinated the delivery of a 3,000-litre water truck to 250 displaced families in southern Gaza. At a time when safe drinking water had become a distant dream, her effort brought both relief and hope. Gaza responded with gratitude, holding signs thanking “Reshmi and her friends from Kerala, India,” images that went viral on social media.In an exclusive interview with Gulf Times, Sreereshmi shares her journey, challenges, and what keeps her going.Q: Can you share a little about yourself and how your journey into humanitarian work began?A: My journey into humanitarian work comes from my own life experiences. I grew up in a family where three members are disabled, and I witnessed my mother’s struggles every single day. From childhood, I was encouraged to help others, and that shaped my empathy and commitment.Over the years, I’ve been part of several efforts: during the 2018 Kerala floods I worked in rescue missions, rehabilitation, and relief camps. In 2019, I helped people affected by the Wayanad landslide. I also initiated post-Covid support for people facing isolation, offering them a non-judgmental listening space. At times, I have even done post-mortem care, such as washing the bodies of victims of the Chooralmala landslide.Beyond disaster relief, I help students and families from financially weak backgrounds by supporting their education and basic needs. For me, humanitarian work means standing with ordinary and oppressed people, both in everyday life and in times of crisis. That commitment is what led me to focus on Palestine.Q: What was the turning point that pushed you to start supporting families in Gaza from Kerala?A: It was the realization of how privileged we are compared to the people in Gaza. Here, we can eat, drink, and sleep safely, while at the same time children are being killed, families destroyed, and people dying of malnutrition. It felt impossible for me to stay silent.During the war, I began communicating with a few families in Gaza, mostly women with children. Over time, they became like sisters to me. Even though we come from different nations, cultures, and languages, there was a deep bond of humanity. Listening to their pain moved me so much that I couldn’t sleep at night. That’s when I knew I had to act—not as charity, but as solidarity.Q: You coordinated the delivery of a 3,000-litre water truck. How did this effort come together?A: I’ve been in contact with families displaced from northern to southern Gaza. One of my closest friends there, Hadeel, a mother of two, raised the urgent issue of water scarcity for 250 families in Jamal Al Wadi. Together with Hadeel and my friend Lesley Hawksley, a TV producer from the UK, we searched for organizations distributing water in that area but found none.Finally, Hadeel located a private water truck owner and coordinated logistics. The truck cost USD 300, and we collected the amount through friends and family. The delivery brought immense relief. Hadeel shared the video of families receiving water—it went viral, and the gratitude shown in those moments will stay with me forever.Q: How did you establish and maintain connections with families in Gaza?A: Through social media. Since the war began, I’ve been closely following the situation in Palestine. I connected with families and began video calls with them—joining them in their daily lives, even simple moments like visiting the market or talking to their children. These small exchanges kept me emotionally connected.Over time, I was able to support around 50–60 families with food and water. Later, when they were displaced, we organized the water truck during a critical time.Q: What role did your friends and well-wishers play in this initiative?A: They were crucial. I am blessed with friends and followers—more than 160,000 on social media—who are ready to support any cause. They contributed through verified international donation links like Chuffed and GoFund, created by social workers from different countries.In Gaza, transactions are complicated and sometimes exploitative, with money exchangers charging up to 50%. So, my friends trusted me to coordinate support and make sure it reached the right people. I will never forget their solidarity.Q: When you saw the viral videos of families thanking you, what was your reaction?A: I was overwhelmed with happiness. Seeing their gratitude gave me peace. Hadeel and her two sons, Mohammed and Read, appeared in one of the videos. Their smiles reminded me that, even from afar, I could bring a little light during such dark times.The world has not witnessed such a targeted genocide against women and children in recent history. According to the Palestinian Health Authority, more than 66,000 civilians have been killed, including 19,000 children. Amidst this horror, if I can bring even a little happiness and hope, it means everything to me.**media[367253]**Q: What challenges did you face in coordinating relief from India?A: The biggest challenge is that direct payment channels from India to Palestine are blocked. We often had to send money through social activists abroad who then transferred it via crypto wallets. Internet blackouts in Gaza make communication difficult, but we still managed to coordinate.At times, even water trucks couldn’t reach families because roads were destroyed or blocked. Once, a truck got stuck in the sand, and we had to find another vehicle to pull it out. Every delivery is a challenge, but worth it.Q: You mentioned that families now need at least 6,000 litres of water daily. How sustainable is this?A: It’s very difficult. Around 280 families that I initially supported have fled to South Gaza. The main water source, the Basin Stream, is polluted after sewage plants were destroyed. Private water trucks face logistical hurdles in reaching these families.I cannot do this alone. International organizations must step in. We need global solidarity and structural support to sustain such efforts.Q: What are your next plans to continue supporting Gaza families? A: I want to continue supporting families who fall through the cracks of humanitarian aid—pregnant women, children needing essentials like diapers, and families without access to social media. My aim is not just food and water but also education and dignity. I don’t know how much I can achieve, but I will try.Q: What message would you like to share with young people who feel helpless but want to make a difference?A: Gaza represents the largest genocide since the Holocaust, and it targets women and children in ways the world cannot ignore. We must understand that this is not about politics—it is about humanity.Wherever possible, raise your voice. Speak about Palestine. Stand against injustice. Even if you cannot send aid, you can spread awareness, keep the conversation alive, and remind the world that silence is complicity.

The embassy of the Republic of Guinea in Qatar, together with the Guinean community, celebrated the nation’s 67th Independence Day with a reception at the Sheraton Hotel.The ceremony was attended by HE Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki al-Subaie, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, HE Ambassador Ibrahim bin Yousif Fakhro, Director of Protocol at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, HE Ali Ibrahim Ahmed, Ambassador of Eritrea and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Foday Malang, President of the Group of African Ambassadors, as well as ambassadors and dignitaries accredited to Qatar.In his address, Thierno Abdoulaye Sow, Ambassador of Guinea to Qatar, highlighted the growing strength of ties between the two countries. “Since the establishment of our diplomatic mission in Doha in 2019, and following the friendly and working visit of His Highness the Amir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani to Conakry, relations between Guinea and Qatar have continued to strengthen, enriched by close bilateral cooperation,” he said.He noted that cooperation had expanded to include scholarships and training opportunities. “This dynamic was recently illustrated by the granting of military training scholarships to Guinea within Qatar's military academies. Furthermore, our country currently benefits from training seminars at the Qatar Diplomatic Institute,” he added.Ambassador Sow also drew attention to Guinea’s reforms aimed at attracting investment. “Our country has adopted a modern, flexible, and incentive-based Investment Code, designed to encourage, regulate, and secure the initiatives of national and international investors,” he explained.He pointed to the Simandou 2040 Project as a transformative step for Guinea’s economy. “This project, which exploits the world’s largest high-grade iron ore deposit, is expected to create over one million direct and indirect jobs and boost our GDP by 26% by 2030,” he said, noting that it would also promote infrastructure development, education, and environmental sustainability through a new 650 km railway.Looking beyond mining, the Ambassador said, “Guinea is also a land of water and life, crossed by over 1,200 waterways, home to the largest primary forest reserve in West Africa, and rich in agricultural potential.” He further described the country as “an authentic tourist destination, blessed with biodiversity, majestic landscapes, and above all, the legendary hospitality of its people.”Ambassador Sow expressed gratitude to Qatar for its support, saying: “I wish to express my deep gratitude to the authorities of the State of Qatar for their warm welcome, their constant availability, and their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations between our two countries.” He also praised the Guinean community in Qatar, calling them “the ambassadors of Guinea, bearers of its values, its culture, and its hope.

Aggressive driving has become a rising concern on the country’s roads, with many motorists reporting that the lack of respect and patience behind the wheel is steadily rising. Unlike other traffic violations that carry penalties, there is no law to punish what experts describe as “morally insensitive driving.”“Rules can control speed, seat belts, and signal jumping, but no law can enforce empathy and courtesy,” says Ahmed Badri, a Doha-based road safety consultant. “Honking unnecessarily, flashing headlights to intimidate, refusing to let someone merge, or tailgating when a car stops for pedestrians — these behaviours increase stress and risk for everyone on the road.”For many, the daily commute feels like a battlefield. “Just yesterday, I indicated to change lanes, but the car behind me sped up instead of letting me in,” says Abdul Kareem, a delivery driver with 12 years’ experience. “Another time, I was honked at for stopping at a zebra crossing, where people were waiting in the hot sun. It’s frustrating to be punished for doing the right thing.”The consequences can be devastating. One motorist recalled: “A week ago, my cousin’s car was struck when a pick-up driver ran a red light. Seeing him in the trauma ICU, struggling to recover, is heartbreaking. Walking through the emergency corridor of the hospital, you see people injured by careless driving. These reckless motorists are not only risking their own lives but destroying the lives of others.”The rising number of vehicles on the road adds to the challenge. The surge in online delivery services has also brought more motorbikes into traffic. Their smaller size makes them less visible, and in an aggressive driving culture, they are particularly vulnerable.Another group especially affected are mothers managing the school run. “School drop-offs should not feel like a race track,” says Sanjana, a mother of three. “But you constantly see drivers speeding, honking, or cutting lanes even near schools. It’s especially stressful for new drivers, who get intimidated and sometimes provoked into unsafe behaviour.”Honking unnecessarily, refusing to let someone merge, or tailgating when a car stops for pedestrians — these behaviours increase stress and risk for everyone on the roadResidents have also raised concerns about overspeeding in residential areas. “Some drivers treat internal roads like highways,” said one resident. “Children play outside, people are walking to nearby shops, yet cars still zoom past at reckless speeds. It’s frightening, because one careless moment could lead to a tragedy in what should be the safest part of the city.”**media[363769]**A call for empathyEmpathy should be part of the culture. The mindset has to come from within — recognising that every driver is also a father, a mother, a worker, or a student just trying to reach their destinationExperts stress that while traffic laws can regulate behaviour, they cannot legislate empathy. “Many collisions happen because of pressure tactics — tailgating, lane-blocking, or intimidating other drivers with honking,” Badri explains. “These are not minor irritations; they directly compromise safety.”Driving schools, he adds, can only teach technical skills, not moral responsibility. “Empathy is not part of the syllabus, but it should be part of the culture. The mindset has to come from within — recognising that every driver is also a father, a mother, a worker, or a student just trying to reach their destination.”Among the most common risky habits is lane jumping. Drivers weave in and out of traffic in the hope of moving faster, but each lane change increases the chance of cutting off another car, entering a blind spot, or causing a collision. In congested traffic, this behaviour rarely saves time but heightens both risk and frustration.Another widespread practice is rushing through yellow lights. While the signal is meant to warn drivers to slow down and prepare to stop, many treat it as a chance to accelerate. Misjudging the timing often results in entering the intersection on red, endangering other vehicles and pedestrians.Aggressive driving is more than a nuisance — it is a public safety issue leading to accidents, injuries, and fatalities. Experts say reducing it requires both personal responsibility and broader awareness campaigns that emphasize respect and courtesy, not just rules.Next time, before you hit the road, remember that showing empathy, patience, and a sense of responsibility can make all the difference. “We are all on the same road,” Abdul Kareem reminds. “A little kindness can go a long way in keeping us, and our fellow motorists, safe.”

The Embassy of Malta in Doha marked two significant milestones: the 61st anniversary of Malta’s independence and the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Malta and Qatar.The reception, held at the Sheraton Grand Doha Hotel, brought together a large gathering of diplomats, government officials, and dignitaries, including Qatar’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology HE Mohammed bin Ali bin Mohammed al-Mannai; Director of the Protocol Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs HE Ambassador Ibrahim Fakhro; and European Union Ambassador to Qatar and Kuwait Cristian Tudor.Addressing the event, Malta’s Ambassador to Qatar Simon Pullicino reflected on his country’s journey since independence. “At independence, Malta faced serious challenges, with no natural resources and the scars of the Second World War still visible. Over the decades, however, the country diversified its economy, built modern infrastructure, and eventually joined the European Union,” he said.**media[362565]**Today, Ambassador Pullicino noted, Malta is among Europe’s fastest-growing economies. Tourism remains a key driver, with a record four million visitors expected this year—nearly eight times the island nation’s population. Beyond economics, he highlighted Malta’s role as a cultural bridge between Europe, North Africa, and the Arab world, underpinned by the Maltese language, the EU’s only official Semitic language.An exclusive two-minute recorded video message for the occasion from Ian Borg, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, was also played during the reception. He emphasised that Malta has thrived as an independent nation, led by a resilient, outward-looking people and a diversified economy driven by advanced manufacturing, tourism, and services. “Our global role far exceeds our size, as shown through recent leadership in the UN Security Council, OSCE, and Council of Europe. Diplomatic ties and deep-rooted people-to-people connections underpin our prosperity,” he said.The envoy also underscored the strength of Malta-Qatar relations over the past five decades, citing high-level visits, regular political consultations, and the opening of Malta’s embassy in Doha four years ago. He welcomed the reintroduction of direct Qatar Airways flights between Doha and Valletta in July 2025, describing it as a step that will further boost trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.On foreign policy, Ambassador Pullicino emphasised both nations’ shared commitment to diplomacy and dialogue. He praised Qatar’s mediation efforts in the Middle East and reiterated Malta’s recognition of the State of Palestine, calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages, and a two-state solution. He also voiced concern over the war in Ukraine, urging adherence to international law, human rights, and the UN Charter.

When Educate Girls became the first Indian non-profit to win the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award 2025, it wasn’t just an institutional milestone—it was a victory for millions of girls who had once been told that school was not for them. For founder Safeena Husain, the award represents the resilience of the girls who refused to give up on their dreams, the determination of communities who chose change, and the dedication of thousands of volunteers who have gone door to door convincing families to keep their daughters in school.“To be the first Indian non-profit ever to receive the Ramon Magsaysay Award is historic. For me, this award belongs first and foremost to the thousands of girls who refused to give up on their dreams” In this exclusive interview, Safeena reflects on her two-decade journey of championing girls’ education—from the challenges of walking through deeply patriarchal villages facing slammed doors, to pioneering innovative models like the world’s first Development Impact Bond in education. She shares moving stories of transformation, strategies that have helped over two million girls return to school, and her ambitious vision for the next decade: reaching 10 million learners in 10 years.At its heart, her message is clear—girls’ education is not a local issue, but a global priority, and real change begins when communities themselves take ownership of that future.Q: Congratulations on winning the Ramon Magsaysay Award 2025 — the first for an Indian organization. How did you feel when you heard the news, and what does this recognition mean for you and your team?A: It was an incredibly emotional moment. To be the first Indian non-profit ever to receive the Ramon Magsaysay Award is historic. For me, this award belongs first and foremost to the thousands of girls who refused to give up on their dreams.For our team, it is an encouragement to double down on what works and to share our learnings widely so that millions more girls benefit. But above all, it is a collective win for every family that chose to keep a daughter in school, every volunteer who knocked on a door, every government that partnered with us, every donor and partner who believed in us, and every girl who dared to dream bigger. This recognition tells the world that girls’ education is not a local issue; it is a global priority.Q: You have spent nearly two decades championing the cause of girls’ education. What inspired you to dedicate your life to this mission?A: My own journey is what led me to start Educate Girls. I had a very difficult childhood growing up in New Delhi, but thanks to the support of my family friend and aunt, I became the first in my family to go to university, studying at the London School of Economics. When I returned to India in 2005, I was confronted with the stark reality that millions of girls were still denied even basic education.I remember visiting a village in Rajasthan where a 10-year-old girl spent her days grazing goats because her family believed school was unnecessary. Sitting with families like hers, I saw both the barriers and the untapped potential of these girls. That conviction that education transforms not just a girl’s life but her entire family and community is what inspired me to dedicate myself to this mission.Q: Looking back to when you founded Educate Girls, what were the biggest challenges you faced in the early years?A: Convincing parents and communities proved to be the toughest. Walking door-to-door in deeply patriarchal communities, I often had doors slammed in my face and was told I was wasting my time. Poverty and social traditions made families hesitate about sending girls to school. Many would say, “Why educate her if she will get married?” But what kept me going was my faith in the girls and the power of communities. Slowly, we found and nurtured local leaders and volunteers who became change agents in their own villages. We also discovered that men could be powerful champions in the gender equity movement.**media[361126]**Q: How has your own upbringing and life experiences shaped your vision for Educate Girls?A: I remember the uncertainty and isolation that came with being out of school. It was only because of my aunt’s support that I got a second chance at education. That personal experience gave me a glimpse of what millions of girls feel when they are denied opportunities, and it has stayed with me ever since. Later, living abroad deepened my appreciation for what education makes possible, and when I returned to India, I felt a strong responsibility to ensure that girls were not left behind.Q: Educate Girls has impacted millions of children in rural India. Can you share one story of transformation that personally moved you?A: I recall meeting Dinesh in Rajasthan, the father of one of the first girls we helped return to school in 2008. At that time, he told us he believed in education, but only for his sons, while his daughter Shobha stayed at home. When I visited them again last year, Dinesh said something that has stayed with me ever since: “The world today is built for the educated. If you are not educated, you will be exploited like animals.”That shift—from excluding girls to recognizing their right to belong in that world—is perhaps the true work of changing mindsets. When communities change, culture changes, and norms begin to shift.Q: What strategies have been most effective in enrolling out-of-school girls and improving their learning outcomes?A: Our biggest strength has been the community itself. Through Team Balika (Team for the girl child), who are educated youth from the same villages, we go door to door, identify out-of-school girls, and build trust with families. Because they are from the community, they understand local dynamics and can change mindsets in ways outsiders cannot.Once the girls are back in school, we use Gyan ka Pitara, a remedial curriculum designed to build foundational literacy and numeracy. It helps children learn at their own pace through engaging, activity-based methods, enabling them to catch up, as they are often first-generation learners. That’s why it’s so important, because enrollment alone is not enough.Q: Collaboration with local communities is central to your model. How do you build trust and ensure long-term sustainability?A: Our most effective strategy has been to put the community at the centre. Today, we have over 23,000 Team Balika volunteers, from the same villages, who know every lane, every family. Their proximity builds trust, which is often the key to persuading parents to send their daughters to school.We also work hand-in-hand with governments so that enrollment drives, School Management Committees, and open schooling systems reach the very last girl. Once girls are enrolled, ensuring they stay and learn is critical. Over time, this has resulted in more than 2.4 million children improving their learning, alongside a 90% retention rate for the girls we enrol. It’s really a combination of community ownership, government partnership, and evidence-driven tools that has allowed us to bring more than 2 million girls into education and to ensure they don’t just sit in classrooms, but actually learn and thrive.Q: You pioneered the world’s first Development Impact Bond in education. How did that innovation change the way education programs are funded and delivered?A: The Development Impact Bond gave us a way to link funding to outcomes, not just activities, and we actually overachieved those targets. As validated by a rigorous gold-standard Randomised Controlled Trial (RCT), Educate Girls achieved 116% of its enrollment goals and 160% of its learning targets, equivalent to an additional year of learning gains.For us, the DIB was more than just innovative funding; it became a learning engine. It helped sharpen our model on two critical fronts: first, by developing a more targeted remedial learning curriculum focused on micro-competencies; and second, by revealing through the data that out-of-school girls were disproportionately concentrated in a smaller subset of villages, setting the stage for precision at scale. It also attracted partners who might never have invested in education otherwise, showing that social programs can be both accountable and ambitious.Q: Looking ahead, what are your top priorities for the next decade of Educate Girls?A: The bad news of winning an award like this is that we are getting more ambitious. In the last 18 years, we have brought over two million girls back into education by mobilising communities around them. But the next decade is about 10x10 - reaching 10 million learners in 10 years. That means going where exclusion is deepest, in the most marginalised and remote geographies.We want to crack open flexible pathways for adolescent girls and young women who have no structured way to return to education today. Technology and data will help us find out-of-school girls with precision, but the real engine will always be the community - the families, volunteers, and local leaders who change mindsets door by door. And just as important, once a girl is in education, we must ensure she learns well, develops skills, confidence, agency, and the power to shape her own life.“Over the past 18 years, we have brought more than two million girls back into education by mobilizing communities around them. The next decade, however, is about 10x10—reaching 10 million learners in 10 years”Q: With accolades such as the WISE Prize, the TED Audacious Project and now the Ramon Magsaysay Award, what drives you to remain deeply connected to the work on the ground and close to the communities you serve?A: The real reward comes from being in the villages, sitting with girls and hearing their dreams for the future. That’s where the energy comes from. Awards are encouraging, but they are not the reason we do this work. The reason will always be the girl who learns to write her own name for the first time, or the parent who proudly says, “My daughter is the first in our family to study.” At Educate Girls, we’ve always said that the community is the heart of change.Q: What advice would you give to young changemakers and social entrepreneurs who want to create large-scale impact?A: I suggest approaching problems with a long-term, problem-solving mindset rather than a project-oriented one. Start by understanding the realities on the ground and leverage what already exists, whether it is community programs, government schemes, or local resources. Build ownership within the community, because true leadership comes from within. Change does not come from the outside in; for it to be sustainable, it must be led by local voices with empathy and cultural insight. And above all, remember that change is rarely quick; it requires patience, persistence, and an unshakable belief that things can be different.