ICBF ties up with CIGI to launch ‘Career Connect’ to empower community

In a significant initiative aimed at empowering the Indian expatriate community in Qatar, the Indian Community Benevolent Forum (ICBF), in collaboration with the Centre for Informa...

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Qatar tribune In a significant initiative aimed at empowering the Indian expatriate community in Qatar, the Indian Community Benevolent Forum (ICBF), in collaboration with the Centre for Information and Guidance India (CIGI, Qatar), has launched ‘Career Connect’, a free, fortnightly career and employability clinic. The initiative was officially inaugurated on September 12, at the ICBF Kanjani Hall by the Ambassador of India to Qatar HE Vipul. The event also saw the presence of Indian Embassy First Secretary and ICBF Coordinating Officer Eish Singhal.

The launching ceremony commenced with a warm welcome from ICBF General Secretary Varkey Boban, who expressed excitement over the overwhelming response to the programme. The very first session of ‘Career Connect’ scheduled for the following day, was already fully booked, demonstrating the significant demand for career guidance within the community. ICBF President Shanavas Bava, during his address, emphasised the importance of ICBF’s recent initiatives.



He informed that ‘Career Connect’ would set a new benchmark for the organisation, similar to the success of the ‘Legal Clinic’, which has been running twice a week in ICBF’s premises. Bava also highlighted a recent awareness seminar on prohibited substances and drugs in Qatar, organised in collaboration with the Indian Embassy. These efforts, he noted, exemplify ICBF’s ongoing commitment to expanding its outreach and supporting the Indian community in Qatar.

The Indian envoy praised ICBF for its continued dedication to the welfare of the Indian community. He noted that ‘Career Connect’ would be an invaluable resource for the labor community, particularly in helping them gain critical insights into career planning for their children back home in India. The programme aims to provide tailored guidance on educational and professional opportunities, ensuring that families make informed decisions about their future.

The event was further enriched by the presence of several esteemed guests, including ISC President and CIGI Chairman EP Abdurahiman, and CIGI Vice Chairman Adv Issudin. Both leaders spoke about CIGI’s contributions to the initiative and its longstanding role in supporting the community through educational and career development programs. One of the key highlights of the event was the introduction of the 19-member expert panel by ICBF Managing Committee Member Zareena Ahad.

This group of professionals will offer personalized, one-on-one career guidance to both students and job seekers. The sessions, which are scheduled for the second Friday and fourth Saturday of each month, will cover a wide range of career paths, helping attendees make informed choices about their futures. Individuals interested in participating can schedule their appointments in advance.

The launch was followed by a motivational session titled ‘Crafting Your Future: The Power of Career Planning’, delivered by Mohammed Faisal. His insightful presentation inspired attendees to take a strategic approach to career planning, underlining the importance of foresight and informed decision-making in shaping successful professional journeys. ICBF Managing Committee Member Neelambari Sushanth coordinated the event, while ICBF Secretary Muhammed Kunhi delivered the vote of thanks.

Distinguished community leaders, including ICBF Advisory Council Chairman Sam Basheer, member Ramaselvam, ISC General Secretary Nihad Ali, and representatives from various associated organizations were also in attendance. The event was made possible through the tireless efforts of ICBF Vice President Deepak Shetty and Managing Committee members Shankar Goud and Abdul Raoof. In addition to launching ‘Career Connect’, the ICBF also announced plans to extend its career development initiative to labor camps across Qatar.

The aim is to educate expatriate workers on how to guide their children towards better educational and career opportunities back in India. This outreach reflects ICBF’s commitment to empowering every segment of the Indian community in Qatar. Copy 23/09/2024 10.