Doha: Northwestern Qatar, one of the partner universities of the Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, celebrated the Class of 2024 graduation ceremony, which includes 126 graduates from 31 countries. In his speech before the graduates, Dean and CEO Marwan Kraidy urged them to apply their strength as evidence-based storytellers to "look beyond differences, geography, and existing ways of knowing." He added that, as communicators across borders and boundaries, there is an opportunity to make an impact. "We are people of the word; We are people of the image," he emphasized. "Use the arts, sciences, and crafts of media you have acquired here at Northwestern to bring change and improve the world we live in." Kraidy reflected on the state of the world and how it has impacted the graduates' academic journey. "You joined the Northwestern family during a global pandemic, and you are graduating at a time of antagonism and violence," said Kraidy. In these times of change, he reminded them "to repair, to heal, to bring peace." Similarly, graduation speaker award-winning counselor and author Hala Kazim told the audience that humility is key as they prepare to step into the future. "If you are humble, you open the doors to life," said Kazim. As they move from classroom to industry and embark on the next chapter of their lives, Kazim encouraged the graduates to "be open to learning" and to lead with curiosity and open-mindedness. Class speaker Haya Al Kuwari commended her peers for their perseverance and prompted them to embrace the future. "As we celebrate the end of this journey, a new beginning awaits us," said Al Kuwari. "A beginning filled with opportunity, challenges, and uncertainty. A beginning I encourage you to embrace and welcome with an open heart because, despite our circumstances, our fears, or our doubts, our stories are written within us." Northwestern University in Qatar is known for its distinguished history, famous programs, and an exceptional faculty. Northwestern Qatar provi des a framework through which students explore the world and, ultimately, shape its future through its distinguished programs in communication, journalism and strategic communication, and the liberal arts. Source: Qatar News Agency