From Systems to People: How Sabeel Rebuilt the Way I Think

For a long time, my studies and my work as an engineer meant staring at screens and negotiating with devices all day, every day. 

Over time, I realised that I was slowly losing my “human” side, the ability to have clear and effective conversations, to put myself in other people’s shoes, and to think about situations from a human perspective. I became so deeply immersed in technical details that the whole world started to feel like a machine.

During this period, I discovered the Sabeel application and thought it might simply help me reconnect with skills I had long sidelined. However, I was wrong. It didn’t just help me recover them, it recreated me. It shaped a new version of Khadija, richer and more aware than before.

At the start of the training, I assumed it would be a routine process: attend classes, submit assignments, receive results, and move on. Once again, I was mistaken. The program was highly organised and thoughtfully designed, focusing on every aspect a person might need in this area. The materials were clearly structured, with relevant information presented in well-planned documents, followed by beautifully prepared presentations that were shared in an exceptionally organised Google Drive.

After each live session, we completed a feedback form. To me, this was more than just a form; it showed how much Sabeel valued our opinions and how committed they were to continuous improvement. Following the lessons, we engaged in simulations that taught us how to apply what we had learned to real-life situations. Furthermore, the one-on-one feedback sessions that followed helped us develop even further. 

The most exciting part was the real test after the course, where we had the chance to face genuine challenges. 

In addition, being surrounded by diverse, highly skilled professionals made the experience even more valuable. Each person brought unique experiences, and listening to their stories widened my perspective in ways I had not expected.

Suppose I compare Khadija before the training to Khadija after the training. In that case, I can confidently say that this experience created a new version of me; someone who can handle human situations more effectively and view the same issue from different angles in order to achieve better outcomes.

While working on Sabeel projects and as a VEA means I will always use my engineering skills and mind, I now feel much more equipped to embrace the soft skills that will make my work reach the next level.