TEDxCUQ Ulster University Explores the Power of Choice in Shaping the Future

City University Qatar hosted the second edition of TEDxCUQ Ulster University under the theme “Built by Choice,” bringing together thought leaders, innovators, and industry experts for an evening of dialogue, discovery, and bold ideas on campus.

Rooted in the belief that the future is shaped by the decisions we make, the event invited attendees to reflect on the values they prioritise, the systems they build, and the responsibility that comes with leadership in a rapidly evolving world.

The programme opened with Homara Choudhary, an international broadcaster, presenter, UN moderator, and Founder of Homara Media LLC. Her talk explored how the stories we repeat in everyday life shape the way we lead, especially under pressure, highlighting the role of intentional thinking and personal accountability in leadership.

Ibrahim Baker, Co-Founder of Manjam Capital, followed with a perspective on values-driven decision-making in finance and technology, encouraging audiences to consider what becomes possible when human values — not speed or scale — sit at the centre of innovation.

Sustainability leader and Founder & CEO of Kingdom Konsult, Katina Aghayan, shared her journey of leaving comfort to build a purpose-driven organisation, emphasising how resilience, clarity, and deliberate choices can translate ideas into measurable, long-term impact.

Continuing the conversation on innovation and responsibility, Nour Al Hassan, CEO of Tarjama, explored the importance of human-centred innovation in the AI era, and how choosing people-first values over trends can shape responsible progress and sustainable growth across the region.

The event then welcomed Amr Metwally, a Director of Healthcare Innovation, entrepreneur, and keynote speaker, who delivered a strong reflection on leadership under uncertainty, reinforcing that progress depends not only on vision, but on the choices leaders make, supported by structure, ownership, and accountability.

The programme concluded with Dr. Bushra Shammout, Investor and Senior Advisor at Transform VC, who shared insights on deliberate, values-led decision-making in high-pressure environments, drawing on her experience across deep-tech investing, public policy, and national security.

The evening closed with a networking reception, offering attendees the opportunity to continue the conversations sparked throughout the talks and strengthen connections across academia, industry, and the wider community.

TEDxCUQ Ulster University: Built by Choice reaffirmed City University Qatar’s growing role as a hub for ideas and dialogue that extends beyond the classroom, empowering students and guests to engage with meaningful conversations that inspire action and long-term impact.