The Qatar University (QU) Student Writer's Club recently held an awards ceremony to recognize the winners of a short story competition, as part of a course on creative writing, presented by the English Language Program at the US Embassy in Qatar.

Following the completion of the 13-week course, the awards ceremony was held in recognition of 17 participants, which was attended by Ms. Megan Cassell, the Press Attaché at the US Embassy in Qatar and Ms. Hanadi Damra, the English Language and Education Outreach Coordinator. The three competition winners, Shahd Elamin, Fatima Ali and Mariam Sweify were invited on stage to read excerpts from their stories.

Participant Zainab Khala commented on the sessions saying, “The sessions helped me develop my writing skills, as well as style, by equipping me with practical tips to write creatively. A huge thanks to all of the workshop organizers. I would love to be part of similar programs in the future.”

The ceremony included a short speech about the Club activities by Mr. Mohammad Hosam Al Nahas, the Club Advisor, and English Lecturer at QU’s Foundation program. Mr. Mohammad also called for students to submit written contributions to mark the first issue of the Student Writer’s Club bi-annual student magazine ‘Quill and Ink.’ He remarked, “The magazine is a new platform that would encourage our students to develop and showcase their writing skills; it is also a great opportunity for QU students to start community discussions on topics of general interest.”

Previously, the club hosted American poet Mr. John Herlihy and soon renowned short story writer Mr. George Saunders will join the next session.