Canadian University Dubai is pleased to invite you to attend the “Transfer to Canada: Kwantlen Polytechnic University Where Thought Meets Action” seminar, presented by Zainab Al-Koubaisi and Paola Gavilanez from Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) – one of Canada’s leading universities in British Columbia, along with Dr. Maha Salman from CUD.
Thursday | February 8th, 2024 | 10:00 am – 11:30 am | CUD HUB Atrium
The seminar topics include:
Studying at KPU and Global Learning Prospects
Speaker: Zainab Al-koubaisi is the Director of Global Engagement responsible for the strategic direction, vision, and growth of the Office of Global Engagement at Kwantlen Polytechnic University. As a seasoned administrator with more than fifteen years of experience in higher education, Zainab oversees the ongoing expansion of international work-integrated learning programs, global experiences for students and faculty, articulation agreements, and international partnerships and development at Kwantlen Polytechnic University.
The Interior Design Profession in Canada: Education, Job Market, and Work Opportunities
Speaker: Paola Gavilanez is the Program Chair of the CIDA-accredited Interior Design Program at KPU’s Wilson School of Design. She is a registered interior design practitioner and educator with more than 22 years' experience and both LEED AP ID+C and NCIDQ certified. Paola holds formal training in interior architecture and design, and a Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies focusing on communications and sustainability. Her extensive portfolio includes senior-level design contributions to diverse commercial, hospitality, and multi-unit residential projects. Her research covers teamwork skills, multi-disciplinary design practices, and ePortfolio pedagogy in design education.
Futuristic Interior Design: Navigating the Blend of AI and Creativity
Speaker: Dr. Maha Salman is the Head of Interior Design program at Canadian University Dubai. She is a LEED Accredited Professional (BD+C) with over 25 years of industry and academic experience in North America and the MENA region, publications and books, and awards for her research work. Dr. Salman received a Ph.D. in Sustainable Architecture from the University of Huddersfield, UK, where she got "The Vice Chancellor's Award for Outstanding Research." Her research focuses on design pedagogy for creativity, curriculum development, sustainability, vernacular architecture, and human interaction with the built environment. Dr. Salman held several leadership roles as a Dean and Head of Departments in Canada and the UAE.