Doha: In a celebration of leadership, learning, and global impact, HEC Paris, Doha marked the graduation of 144 participants at the Qatar Foundation Convocation 2026, underscoring its continued role in shaping responsible leaders for Qatar and beyond. Held as part of Qatar Foundation's annual ceremony, this year's convocation brought together four diverse cohorts of participants from the Executive MBA (EMBA). Reflecting both national pride and international reach, 26% of graduates are Qatari nationals, 34% are women, representing a global community from across the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and Africa, reinforcing Qatar's growing stature as a global education hub.
According to Qatar News Agency, the event celebrated academic excellence, leadership, and the longstanding partnership between HEC Paris, Doha and Qatar Foundation, aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030 and its ambition to foster sustainable development through education and innovation. Highlighting the importance of this collaboration, Djelloul Bekka, Chief Operating and Administrative Officer at HEC Paris, Doha, emphasized the shared ambition to unlock human potential and drive impact and excellence.
This year's convocation also saw two HEC Paris, Doha participants, Mashael Mohammed AlSulaiti and Quan Wei, receive the prestigious Qatar Foundation Excellence Awards, honoring outstanding academic performance, civic duty, impact and leadership reach, and professional and entrepreneurial skills. Addressing the significance of the occasion, Joshua Kobb, Chief Growth and Impact Officer at HEC Paris, Doha, highlighted the diverse and globally minded nature of the graduating class.
Reflecting on the practical impact of the program, Executive MBA Emerging Leaders Track participant Maryam Al Darwish shared insights on how the experience translated directly into her professional environment. Throughout their academic journey, participants engaged in immersive learning experiences designed to strengthen strategic thinking, leadership capabilities, and a strong sense of responsibility.
"The convocation represents more than an academic milestone," added Bekka. "It is a call to lead with integrity, contribute to society, and actively create positive change, which is central to HEC Paris, Doha's mission of emphasizing responsible leadership and community impact." Abdulrahman Al Jumaily, from the Executive MBA program, reflected on his transformative journey and strengthened commitment to contributing meaningfully to his organization and the wider community.
The Class of 2026 now joins a dynamic and expanding global HEC Paris alumni network of over 80,000 graduates, strengthening connections across industries worldwide. Building on the momentum of previous years, HEC Paris, Doha continues to elevate its position-and that of Qatar-as a leading provider of executive education in the region.