Muscat: ABA Oman International School recently hosted an engaging and insightful Careers Day for Grade 10 students, offering meaningful exposure to a broad range of academic and professional pathways. Led by Jinane Helou, ABA University and Careers Counsellor, the event was designed to support students at a key decision-making stage as they begin to explore subject choices, career interests, and future aspirations.
“Careers Day is an invaluable opportunity for our students to hear directly from professionals across different industries and gain insights that help them make informed, confident decisions about their future. We are incredibly grateful to our community for sharing their time, experience, and guidance,” stated Jinane. “Our goal is to help students make decisions with confidence, not pressure. Careers Day offers a safe space to explore options, understand different industries, and learn from professionals”, she added.
The Careers Day brought together a diverse group of professionals from fields including science and medicine, engineering, technology, entrepreneurship, finance, marketing, international development, media, health and wellness, and the creative industries. Drawing on the expertise of parents, educators, industry leaders, and senior students, the sessions provided real-world insights into career journeys, evolving industries, and the skills needed to succeed in a rapidly changing global landscape.
“Career paths are not always linear; they are built over time through learning, experience, and the development of skills such as communication, resilience, and adaptability. Careers Day empowers students to explore possibilities, ask meaningful questions, and understand how their strengths can translate into real-world impact.” stated Craig Williamson, ABA Head of School.
Among the speakers were Dr. Zahia Asekova, Assistant Professor in Plant Sciences at Sultan Qaboos University, who shared her work on climate-resilient crops and sustainable food systems. Dr. Nausheen Yaqoob, an experienced histopathologist, introduced students to the world of medical diagnostics and research, highlighting how laboratory science plays a vital role in healthcare decision-making. In the technology and innovation space, ABA alumni Aaditya Khimji, Technology & AI Advisor and Business Leader, explored how artificial intelligence is being applied in real business contexts, while Ashmeed Hosein provided insights into engineering careers in the upstream oil and gas sector.
Marketing strategist Anna Popova spoke about reinventing careers in a changing world, emphasizing how marketers adapt to new platforms, audiences, and technologies over time. ABA Board Director Hana Syed Fayyaz, MD, AHM Holding, discussed her journey from chemical engineering to global finance and private investment, while Sumaira Chowdhury, UNICEF Representative to Oman, discussed leadership, global impact, and career pathways in humanitarian and policy-driven work. Entrepreneur and angel investor Idriss Mokhtarzada offered a candid perspective on startup culture, innovation, and building companies for impact, while Ivana Hadzic, Personal Trainer & Fitness Coach, led an interactive session focused on health, fitness, and sustainable lifestyle habits, alongside career opportunities in wellness and sport science.
Jinane Helou guided students through building a strong digital presence and first impressions on LinkedIn, while alumni parent Clauss Niazi, Educational Consultant, led practical workshops on résumé writing, equipping students with essential tools for future internships and applications. Students also participated in skills-focused sessions, including a media workshop led by Huda Al Mosawi, Programme Director and Presenter at Virgin Radio Oman, offering a look at broadcasting, communication, and confidence on air.
The day concluded with a student-led panel discussion featuring Grade 11 and 12 students, facilitated by ABA’s Diploma Programme (DP) Coordinator, Samantha Cole. Senior students shared personal experiences related to IBDP subject choices, university applications, time management, and maintaining balance, giving grade 10 students the opportunity to ask questions and learn from peers who had recently navigated similar decisions.
“Careers Day helped me understand what different jobs actually involve and what skills I need to build now. Learning from industry professionals made me feel more confident about choosing my subjects for IBDP,” shared a Grade 10 student.
Careers Day remains a key initiative at ABA, reinforcing the school’s commitment to career readiness, experiential learning, and preparing students for success beyond the classroom. ABA Oman International School is a leading international school in Muscat, offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes with a strong focus on academic excellence, global citizenship, and lifelong learning. For more information, visit www.abaoman.org.
