Who is Emad Saif?
Emad Saif is an entrepreneurship educator, university lecturer, and certified LEGO Serious Play facilitator based in Qatar. With over a decade of experience in teaching and training, he is passionate about making education engaging, practical, and fun. Currently, he lectures at Qatar University’s College of Business and Economics and serves as a trainer at the university’s Center for Entrepreneurship. Emad’s innovative approach to education emphasizes experiential learning, particularly through the use of LEGO Serious Play.
Early Life and Education
Emad’s academic journey began in Canada, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering from Ryerson University. He furthered his studies with a master’s degree in Engineering Entrepreneurship and Innovation from McMaster University. His educational background laid the foundation for his unique blend of engineering principles and entrepreneurial mindset.
Professional Journey
Engineering and Startup Experience
Before transitioning into academia, Emad gained valuable experience in various engineering sectors, including manufacturing and logistics. He also ventured into the startup world, contributing to several tech startups. This diverse professional background enriched his understanding of business development and innovation.
Transition to Education
Emad’s passion for education led him to academia, where he could merge his industry experience with teaching. At Qatar University, he has been instrumental in developing and delivering entrepreneurship programs that are both practical and engaging. His courses often incorporate hands-on activities, case studies, and interactive workshops.
Innovative Teaching Methods
LEGO Serious Play
One of Emad’s signature teaching tools is LEGO Serious Play, a methodology that uses LEGO bricks to facilitate creative thinking and problem-solving. By building models, students can express complex ideas and explore different perspectives in a tangible way. This approach fosters deeper understanding and encourages active participation.
Design Thinking and Experiential Learning
Emad also integrates design thinking principles into his curriculum, guiding students through the process of empathizing, defining problems, ideating, prototyping, and testing solutions. His emphasis on experiential learning ensures that students not only grasp theoretical concepts but also apply them in real-world scenarios.
Contributions and Collaborations
Training and Mentorship
Beyond the classroom, Emad actively participates in training programs and mentorship initiatives. He has collaborated with various organizations, including Qatar Foundation, Injaz Qatar, and the Ministry of Transportation & Communications, to deliver workshops and support aspiring entrepreneurs.
International Engagements
Emad’s expertise has been recognized internationally. He has served as a keynote speaker and trainer at events such as the European Innovation Academy in Italy, Portugal, and China, as well as programs at Oxford University in the UK. These engagements highlight his commitment to fostering entrepreneurship on a global scale.
Online Presence and Resources
Emad maintains an active online presence, sharing insights, resources, and updates through his website and social media channels. His presentations and documents cover various topics related to entrepreneurship education, including business model innovation and personal business models.
Impact and Legacy
Through his innovative teaching methods and dedication to experiential learning, Emad Saif has significantly influenced the field of entrepreneurship education. His approach empowers students to think creatively, embrace challenges, and develop practical solutions. By integrating tools like LEGO Serious Play and design thinking into his curriculum, Emad continues to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs.
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