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
Art & Psychiatry

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.