Judges

Ayesha Siddique
Art

I was a Fine Arts major in college and earned my Bachelor’s degree in Product Design. I have been teaching my students to express and polish their artistic skills since 2015. My students have participated and excelled in various national and international art competitions. I believe that art is an innate passion of us all. You just have to discover your streak. My advice to all participants is to be observant, persistent and self-disciplined. Inspiration for art is all around you. When transferring your thoughts to the medium of your choice, put your heart and soul into it. Be Bold. Be Creative. Be Expressive. I look forward to reviewing your masterpieces.

Sonia Nisa
Art & Calligraphy 

I am a Kashmiri origin, Qatar-based British national with Pakistani roots. My professional qualifications are within the ICT sector and teaching. I have pursued Islamic Scholarship (Alimmiyah) Studies and the study of Greek Herbal Medicine. I am a self-taught calligrapher. I had a passion for art from a very young age so I have been drawing, writing, and doodling ever since. I never really pursued any education in art or calligraphy. I and my husband moved to teach abroad in Doha, Qatar. Although I was working full-time, I found myself having adequate time on my hands, therefore, I started painting again to fill in the time gaps. You can visit my website www.sonianisa.com to see my work and for calligraphy inspiration.

Aishah Aslam
Art & Photography

My name is Aishah Aslam. I hold a degree in Early Childhood Education. In addition to my full-time job at the Department of Treasury, I am a wedding and portrait photographer alongside my husband, Hassan Aslam. You can visit my website for photography inspiration: www.aishahaslamphotography.com. My favorite medium for painting in watercolor. I encourage you to use your own unique style to express your ideas. I am looking forward to being a part of this competition and seeing all the talent that will be presented.

Zheala Qayyum
Dr.

Dr. Zheala Qayyum is the medical director of the Emergency Psychiatry Services at Boston Children’s Hospital, and a medical educator. She is board certified in general psychiatry, child and adolescent psychiatry and consultation liaison psychiatry. She also serves as a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Army Reserves Medical Corps.

Dr. Qayyum has a profound passion and interest in art, and believes in the power of art to heal, inspire, and foster a deeper understanding of the human experience. Dr. Qayyum integrates her love for art into her professional life, using it as a therapeutic tool to encourage creativity and emotional expression among her patients. She loves to encourage artistic expression in young people and also utilizes art for personal wellbeing.