In Dubai, where ambition and resilience converge, several couples have proven that love, education, and family can flourish side by side. These inspiring stories showcase how they navigated college life, careers, and even parenthood while building their lives together.
Xin and Fan Yang: Graduating as a Family
Xin and Fan Yang’s journey began with a shared dream of higher education. While Fan enrolled at the University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) in 2020, Xin joined the MBA program in 2021. They supported each other, spending long hours in the library and overcoming challenges like Xin learning English from scratch.
In 2022, life threw a curveball when Xin became pregnant. She took a brief academic break and welcomed their baby in June 2023. Despite the hurdles, the couple graduated together in October 2024, with their baby in their arms. “It wasn’t just about us anymore—it was about our family,” Xin said, reflecting on their journey.
Shruti Ganesh and Vineet Garmella: From Classmates to Fiancés
Shruti and Vineet’s love story blossomed while pursuing their Master’s in Marketing at UOWD. Initially competitors in class, they bonded over shared academic interests and their Telugu heritage. Their connection deepened with time, and Vineet proposed in a playful way, hiding their engagement rings in Pokémon balls.
The couple celebrated their academic achievements at a shared graduation ceremony, where their names were called one after the other. They are now planning to tie the knot in February 2025, marking the next chapter in their story.
Azam and Ayesha Azam: A Childhood Connection Rekindled
For Azam and Ayesha, their journey began with a shared surname in school. Although they didn’t interact much during their early years, fate brought them together in college. The Pakistani expats grew close while studying hospitality management in Dubai Knowledge Village and decided to get married.
Their union faced initial resistance from Azam’s family, but over time, Ayesha became an integral part of their household. Thirteen years and three children later, Azam reflects, “She is the best daughter-in-law and sister-in-law in the house.”
Inspiring Journeys of Resilience
These stories highlight how determination and mutual support can turn challenges into milestones. From juggling studies and work to embracing parenthood and marriage, these couples exemplify the power of shared goals and love.
As these graduates step into new phases of life, their journeys inspire others to pursue their dreams—together.