WCM-Q launches a pilot leadership program for students

The Division of Student Affairs at Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q) has launched a pilot program introducing the Student Leadership Challenge to students in collaboration with WILEY, a US-based global publishing and research company.

Developed by renowned leadership experts James Kouzes and Barry Posner, the program is designed to help students enhance their leadership skills through self-discovery, reflection and practical applications.

Held over three days, the pilot program saw thirteen pre-medical students take part, engaging in a series of interactive workshops and self-assessment exercises. The participants explored the key principles of leadership, with titles including ‘model the way’, ‘inspire a shared vision’, ‘challenge the process’, ‘enable others to act’, and ‘encourage the heart’.

The students also reflected on their current leadership positions and explored how they could apply what they learned in their student clubs and organizations, and within the Medical Student Executive Council (MSEC).  

The students were Aiza Tanveer Hassan, Ayse Demir, Dounia Baroudi, Laiba Qureshi, Mada Ghanem, Maryam Sohail, Mohammad Rana, Muhammad Eid, Nidhi Roy, Noor Numan, Nuh Murtaza, Ridwan Ahmed, and Sama Al-Saffar.

The students received a certificate from WILEY upon successful completion.

Commenting on the program, Dr. Sean Holroyd, associate dean for student affairs said: “We are committed to nurturing not only our students’ academic excellence but also their personal growth and leadership potential. The Student Leadership Challenge provided an opportunity for the students to reflect on the values, refine their leadership styles, and learn how to lead with both purpose and integrity. We look forward to seeing how they apply these principles within their clubs, organizations, and in their future medical careers to inspire and empower others.”

Dr. Amjad Abdo, events & student development specialist, who coordinated and introduced the program, said: “I believe it’s important to provide our students with the opportunity to further explore their understanding of leadership and how this applies to their daily lives. The Student Leadership Challenge provides a great framework and a solid foundation for our students to consider and apply when they are working on enhancing their leadership effectiveness and adaptability. I hope that we can expand this program to include additional classes as well”.    

Commenting on her experience at the program, student participant Nidhi Roy said: “The experience I had during the three days I spent under the Student Leadership Challenge Program was very rewarding. Getting the opportunity to work alongside my peers through interactive activities was a lot of fun, and the activities helped me to learn and understand values and components of leadership that I wasn’t previously aware of. I genuinely believe I have grown both as a leader and as an individual during the time I spent as part of the program, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking to develop and practice their leadership skills.”

Muhammad Eid, another student participant said: “The leadership program helped shape a brand-new outlook for both me and my peers. It is the perfect medium for developing introspective, social, and leadership skills.”

This initiative is part of a wide range of programs offered by the Division of Student Affairs, which provide a holistic approach for WCM-Q student development and growth. Based on the participants' feedback, the division plans to launch an expanded version in the Fall 2026 semester.