Key Takeaways from the HADABA Summit 2025
- MIE SPPU
- Oct 6
- 2 min read
On September 28–29, 2025, I had the privilege of attending the HADABA Summit 2025, hosted by the College of Public Policy at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Qatar.
The summit brought together diverse voices and ideas, with sessions spanning topics from Data Storytelling to Public Narratives. What stood out most was the emphasis on the power of stories—every individual carries a unique narrative, and when shaped positively, these stories can foster collaboration across cultures, industries, and disciplines.
For me, the summit bridged the gap between classroom theory and real-world practice, reminding me that effective leadership today requires more than technical skills. It demands empathy, resilience, and the courage to work across differences.
Key Takeaways
Humanitarian narratives inspire empathy and action by highlighting dignity, resilience, and lived experiences.
Personalization matters — start with a first name.
Numbers become meaningful only when translated into stories and insights.
Verified data is essential — context and critical evaluation are key.
Visual storytelling techniques, from John Snow’s cholera map to Nightingale’s diagrams and Rosling’s Gapminder, remain powerful tools.
Public narratives should follow a framework: Audience → Voice → Goal → Flow.
Grassroots storytelling builds authenticity and empowers communities.
At its core, the goal of narrative and data is solidarity — to act together.
One of the most inspiring moments for me was meeting Mrs. Salma Sameh, Head Teaching Fellow at Harvard Kennedy School. Her lecture and personal insights were transformative, offering perspectives that will stay with me for a long time.
I am deeply grateful to MIE-SPPU for nominating me to attend this summit and to my faculty members for their support.
In conclusion, the HADABA Summit 2025 was more than an academic event—it was a transformative journey. It challenged me to think critically, expand my worldview, and envision my role in shaping a better future. I look forward to applying these lessons in my academic path and beyond.
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