Maryam Alsubaiey was a regional winner for Middle East and Northern Africa at British Council Alumni Awards 2017 for her work inspiring young people in Qatar.
Maryam is a founder of multiple projects supporting young people and is also a successful writer, producer, director and creative leader in Qatar.
“Studying in the UK was not only useful in terms of having a great academic qualification, but for me it showed a different way of life and empowered me to be true to myself.
“Being an active student in the UK enabled me to know the value of an active civil society and the importance of the role of youth. Therefore, I wanted to create similar platforms and enable young people to grow and be active.”
As a result Maryam started two youth initiatives in Qatar - Uchange and Qatar Together - to promote the country's most talented and creative young people across different disciplines. These initiatives had a great impact on the youth community in Qatar and encouraged many young people to pursue subjects and issues they are really passionate about. Maryam also created her own start-up, QTalent.
When Maryam joined Qatar Television (QTV) she was the only woman and the youngest manager. For the re-launch of the channel, Maryam was responsible for the creative process.
After the launch she was promoted to Director of Programs. Her education and career in the UK proved vital for developing her skills as a director.
She said: “Coming back with professional British work ethics I was able to use those skills into creating a new work environment. The launch of the channel was a success and I was happy to provide this great project for my country.”
She said: “My personal journey of self-empowerment has also inspired many young girls in Qatar who are afraid to take bold steps to achieve their dreams.”