2 weeks Ago By Qatar Tribune
Qatar tribune Tribune News Network Doha AFG College with the University of Aberdeen successfully held a business communications conference on ‘Strengthening Global Business Communications Capacity in Qatar’.The event brought together a range of industry figures, diplomats and communications experts to delve into the ever-changing landscape of global communications, here in Qatar. The event was sponsored by the British Embassy in Qatar and was endorsed by the Middle East Public Relations Association (MEPRA) and was an opportunity for delegates to hear from key figures on meaningful discussion around cross cultural communications, as well as its role in sport, culture and diplomacy.
The conference was attended by Dr Sheikha Aisha Bint Faleh Al Thani, chairperson and Founder of Al Faleh Educational Holding, Brian Buckley, principal of AFG College, Dr Julie Cross, vice principal Academic at AFG College, professionals from communications and diplomacy fields, staff, students and alumni of AFG College. The event programme featured high profile speakers, including the British Ambassador to the State of Qatar, HE Neerav Patel, Sheikha Reem Al Thani, acting deputy CEO of Exhibitions, Public Art and the future Rubaiya quadrennial at Qatar Museums and former director-general of Communications for the British Government, Simon McGee, who delivered a keynote speech on the important role communication plays in delivering messages during crises and how this can shape national agenda and ultimately drive success. With participation from senior government officials, diplomats, subject experts and PR professionals, the conference explored pertinent communications strategies and served as an opportunity for continued engagement, cementing Doha’s position as a global hub for leadership in the international sphere of public relations.
Attendees were afforded the opportunity to take part in a workshop on crisis communications, which was delivered by Justin Kerr Stevens, global CEO for BLJ. Running concurrently was an interactive exchange with a number of ambassadors discussing their insights on building trust across borders. Dr.
Sheikha Aisha Bint Faleh Al Thani commented “I would like to thank the delegates for taking part in today’s conference. It is important to hold such international gatherings to discuss the impact of communication in everyday challenges and to share experiences with international diplomatic figures.” Ambassador Patel commented “We are delighted to support this event with AFG College with the University of Aberdeen, focused on best practice in global and strategic communications, and promoting learning from brilliant practitioners with a range of backgrounds.
We are strong supporters of fair and impartial journalism and recognise its importance in fostering inter-cultural understanding and dialogue.” Sheikha Reem Al Thani, acting deputy CEO of Exhibitions, Public Art and the future Rubaiya quadrennial at Qatar Museums, commented on the occasion saying: “We are honoured to participate in this eye-opening conference, offering a perspective on how Qatar Museums has made the nation a bustling creative center. Coordinating the fields of culture and communications is essential to unlocking understanding, fostering collaboration, and bridging divides, goals that are at the heart of Qatar Museums’ mission.
” A key takeaway from the event was the need for greater research collaboration and expansion of understanding around new concepts and technologies being employed in communications, especially around the role of Artificial Intelligence. Recognizing the importance of cultivating research opportunities, Dr Julie Cross, vice principal academic at AFG College said “We understand the significant role that research plays in shaping future discussion on business communications, which is why, we as an institution, will build upon the conference themes and seek to engage with local and international organisations to offer industry insights, inform best practice and create lasting opportunities for the profession.” Copy 22/04/2025 10.
