Class of 2025 student speaker Fatima Yousaf reflects on community spirit and contributing to Qatar’s tech future

DOHA, QATAR – For Fatima Yousaf, a graduating computer science senior from Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar (CMU-Q), the university experience was defined by a deep commitment to community – a value she now aims to carry forward into Qatar’s burgeoning technology sector. Yousaf was selected as a Qatar Campus Scholar, an Andrew Carnegie Society Scholar, and the Class of 2025’s student speaker at the graduation ceremony in May.

“I’ve always been someone who loves being involved in the community,” Yousaf stated. This passion translated into action through numerous leadership roles, including serving as a course assistant for seven different courses.

“I’m someone who is very proactive in the community,” she said, “someone who people can come to whenever they need advice or help.” For her, the CMU-Q community was like a second family that encouraged and supported one another throughout a challenging academic experience. 

This community-centric approach continues to shape Yousaf’s aspirations as she prepares to start her career as a software engineer at UBS. Determined to contribute back to Qatar, she sees both her technical expertise and her passion for leadership as key to making a tangible impact. 

“I intend to take on more leadership roles in the future so that I can contribute to Qatar, especially in its tech market,” she shared. 

Fatima Yousaf’s journey exemplifies how a deep investment in university community life can cultivate the skills and drive needed to contribute meaningfully to national goals, particularly within Qatar’s vital and growing technology landscape.