Fast FWD - Fall 2026

Northwestern University in Qatar’s Executive Education Program, in partnership with NU-Q Student Experience, presents Fast FWD @ NU-Q, a professional development event for alumni of Qatar Foundation schools and current NU-Q juniors and seniors.

This fall's session, "Influential Public Speaking: Communicate with Confidence, Clarity, and Impact", is led by NU-Q faculty and broadcast media veteran, Scheherazade Safla-Gaffoor. Seating is limited, and the event also includes a networking meet-and-greet session and a complimentary buffet lunch.

Instructor

Safla-Gaffoor
Assistant Professor in Residence

Safla-Gaffoor will offer hands-on advice and strategies for becoming a more effective, confident public speaker. 

An assistant professor in NU-Q’s Journalism and Strategic Communications Program, Safla-Gaffoor has nearly 30 years of experience in broadcast journalism, on-air presenting, and podcasting. Her career has included work with television networks across the Middle East, Europe, and Africa, including Channel 5 in London and Al Jazeera. She was also a senior reporter and producer for The Exchange and Qatar 365 on Euronews.

Program

9:00–10:15 a.m. | Professional Development Seminar
"Influential Public Speaking: Communicate with Confidence, Clarity, and Impact" 

In this session, Safla-Gaffoor will demonstrate proven methods for managing nerves, strengthening vocal delivery, and communicating with greater clarity and confidence. Participants will learn skills they can apply when leading a meeting, delivering a pitch or moderating a panel, while remaining authentic and culturally aware.

10:15 a.m.–12:45 p.m. | Networking Meet-and-Greet
An opportunity for participants to connect with NU-Q students and alumni and build relationships within Qatar’s professional community.

12:45–2:00 p.m. | Lunch
Lunch will be provided for participants.