Loading ...Arab America Foundation Announces 30 Under 30 Awardees--Class of 2025
For Immediate Release
Washington, DC (May 21, 2025): The Arab America Foundation announced today the awardees of its 30 Under 30 initiative, Class of 2025. Thirty outstanding Arab Americans were chosen from a diverse group of applicants nationwide. A panel of judges from different Arab nationalities reviewed the applications.
The awardees are: Hesham Aldhaibani, Rawan Almallahi, Ahmad Alsheikh, Omar Ammari, Deena Ayesh, Layal Bou Harfouch, Tala El-Fahmawi, Nesreen Ezzeddine, Lisa Farraj, Asmaa Hasan, Youssef Hasweh, Jude Husein, Usama Ibrahim, Tariq Issa, Julianna Jadon, Ray Kaidbay, Lara Kamal, Cinderella Ksebati, Lana Mahbouba, Reem Matar, Ali Mosawi, Adan Murad, Asel Mustafa, Tammam Odeh, Deena Sukhon, Yaqoub Saadeh, Raya Tuffaha, Fatima Yahya, Kaitlyn Zablock, Razan Zaher.
“A core element of our mission is to uplift and recognize Arab American rising leaders who are shaping the future with purpose and passion,” said Warren David, co-founder of the Arab America Foundation and president of Arab America. “The 30 Under 30 Class of 2025 reflects innovation, resilience, and cultural pride. Their accomplishments inspire us and reaffirm the powerful impact of Arab Americans across all sectors of society.”
30 Under 30 is a celebration of accomplished young Arab Americans. The program spotlights Arab American professionals in all fields, including but not limited to education, law, public service/politics, non-profit, business leaders, entrepreneurs, engineers, medical professionals, artists, entertainers, writers, and media representatives. These young professionals have great achievements both in the workplace and in their communities.
All awardees are between the ages of 20 and 30, excel in their industry, and effectively engage with the world around them. The competition is open annually to all professionals of Arab descent who live and/or work in the United States.
The Arab America Foundation and its board are grateful for the leadership of the initiative’s coordinators, Nabelah Kakish Ghareeb and Elias J. Khalil, and for the prestigious panel of judges.
The 30 Under 30 awardees for the class of 2025 will be honored during the Connect Arab America: Empowerment Summit, October 24-25, 2025.
About the Arab America Foundation
The Arab America Foundation (AAF) is a non-profit (501c3) educational and cultural organization. Its mission is to promote Arab heritage in the U.S., educate Americans about Arab identity, and connect and empower Arab Americans across the country.
The 30 Under 30 Awardees, Class of 2025
Hesham Aldhaibani
Hesham Aldhaibani is Biomedical Engineer, holds both a Bachelors in Biomedical Engineering and a Masters degree in Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering. He is a Yemeni American committed to building a stronger community of leaders. As the President of the American Association of Yemeni Students and Professionals (AAYSP), he has brought numerous innovative ideas to enhance the organization’s initiative. Under his leadership, the organization has launched its virtual College and Career mentoring program. It has also supported hundreds of students through college tours and workshops. In addition to his work with the AAYSP, Hesham has actively participated in several research projects in the field of Biomechanics at Wayne State University and the Detroit Medical Center. His research was recognized and featured in Today@Wayne News. Hesham’s commitment to innovation and problem solving drives his efforts, making a meaningful impact on both the community and the academic realms.
Rawan Almallahi
Rawan Almallahi is a Senior Research Specialist at the Dow Chemical Company. She earned her B.S. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Houston with University Honors and Honors in Major and her Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Her dissertation work centered on addressing sustainability challenges associated with the emergence of cheap and abundant natural gas in the chemical industry. She worked on utilizing innovative approaches to develop efficient systems and processes to seamlessly upgrade natural gas into higher-value chemicals. Her research work resulted in five article publications, two were in the premier journal of Science, and one patent application. Rawan was born in Jordan, raised in the Emirates, and moved to the US during high school for college. She is passionate about STEM and mentoring younger students in pursuing STEM-related careers, especially to create a more diverse future generation of scientists and engineers.
Ahmad Alsheikh
Ahmad Alsheikh is originally from Aleppo, Syria, and is a graduate of Harvard University with a Bachelor’s in Chemistry and Government with highest honors. A researcher, health policy advocate, and aspiring physician-scientist, Ahmad strives to empower Arab American voices in healthcare by advancing culturally competent care and community-driven solutions. He served as President of the nonprofit Arab American Healthcare Initiative, where he introduced a health policy series and organized speaker events with experts in the health advocacy space. As an undergraduate, Ahmad actively supported the passage of legislation aimed at expanding healthcare access to marginalized and rural communities at both state and federal levels. In his home state of New Mexico, he was recognized by the state House of Representatives for his civic engagement. He currently works as a Clinical Research Coordinator at Massachusetts General Hospital and is spearheading Ruwwad Syria, an initiative connecting Syrians in the diaspora with those inside Syria through mentorship and knowledge exchange.
Omar Ammari
Omar Ammari, a Palestinian-Jordanian pre-med student, graduated Magna Cum Laude from Stony Brook University with a B.S. in Biology. Taking time off before medical school, he pursued his passion for mental health advocacy, driven by his own experiences and the stigma surrounding mental health in the Arab American community. Finding no existing organizations addressing this issue, he founded the Arab American Mental Health Association (AAMHA) to reduce stigma, promote awareness, and improve access to resources. AAMHA also educates healthcare professionals on cultural competence to effectively treat diverse patients and the challenges that Arab Americans face when seeking out healthcare. In addition to his advocacy, Omar works as a nurse attendant in a stroke unit and a pediatric medical scribe. He also volunteers as a Crisis Counselor for Crisis Text Line, a tour guide and educator at Long Island Children’s Museum, and a psychology research assistant studying 9/11 first responders.
Deena Ayesh
Deena Ayesh is a Palestinian-American from Ramallah, currently based in Los Angeles. She is a researcher, organizer, and Master’s of Global Health candidate at NYU, dedicated to advancing justice through health. She uses her platform to center the untold stories of her Arab community, focusing on refugee health, structural violence, and liberation in the Levant and broader Middle East. Her work has received numerous awards and recognition from countries around the world. Beyond academia, Deena builds lasting change in every space she enters. Her leadership has mobilized $80,000 in equity programs for low-income students. She is the founder of the SWANA Health Alliance, and helped establish MESAA at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, advocating for institutional support of South Asian and North African communities. Inspired by her roots and her family’s resilience, Deena aims for a career in international health, hoping to empower the rights of communities locally and abroad.
Layal Bou Harfouch
Layal Bou Harfouch is a translational health researcher, harm reduction policy analyst, and community advocate with a deep commitment to public health equity. She currently serves as a Drug Policy Analyst at the Reason Foundation, where she develops evidence-based recommendations that center harm reduction and individual autonomy. With a Master of Science in Biotechnology from Johns Hopkins University and a background in clinical research coordination, Layal has led multi-site addiction trials, managed healthcare marketing initiatives, and worked across sectors to advance innovative, patient-centered solutions. She is the Founder and President of Omniwomyn, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering BIPOC women through mentorship, professional development, and community service. Layal has presented her work at national conferences including AMERSA, NAAMA, and the Arab Health Summit, and has published numerous articles on drug policy, ethical research practices, and healthcare reform. Her interdisciplinary work bridges science, policy, and advocacy—with a core focus on promoting dignity and access for underserved populations.
Tala El-Fahmawi
Tala El-Fahmawi is a Palestinian-American writer, educator, and the founder of Good Rain Publishing, a Palestinian-owned independent children’s book publishing company. With a bachelor’s in psychology from UC Berkeley and a master’s in education from Boston University, Tala is committed to promoting empathy, cultural understanding, and community values through storytelling. Through Good Rain Publishing, Tala has created a platform for Arab voices in the U.S. and abroad, starting with a team of exclusively Palestinian writers, illustrators, and editors. The company’s mission extends beyond publishing—through book sales, Good Rain provides community aid to Gazans, donates school materials, and supports initiatives like Playgrounds for Palestine. Tala believes that children who are readers today will be leaders tomorrow, and she strives to empower Arab children to become the change the world needs, fostering a generation dedicated to justice, empathy, and meaningful action.
Nesreen Ezzeddine
Nesreen Ezzeddine is a Lebanese American who earned her B.A. in political science with honors from the University of Michigan. She also holds a master’s degree in Policy, Organization, and Leadership Studies from Stanford University. She is the education programs manager at Commonwealth Club World Affairs California where she develops programs that engage youth and intergenerational audiences on socio-political issues. In her free time, she enjoys playing beach volleyball, practicing gymnastics, and cooking Lebanese food.
Lisa Farraj
Lisa Farraj is the granddaughter of Jordanian and Palestinian immigrants. She holds a Masters in Public Health from New York University with a concentration in Global Health. In 2023, she graduated from the University of California, Riverside where she obtained her B.A. in Public Policy with a minor in education. During her time at UCR, Lisa published ‘Arab Americans and The Invisible Health Crisis’ which evaluates the health of Arab Americans under the lens of the Social Determinants of Health Framework. She was a Community Health and Education Worker Intern at Loma Linda University Health where she developed health education materials for dissemination, including topics like diabetes, asthma, mental health, and stress. At the Riverside County Office of Education, she worked as a Policy Intern to develop and enhance programs to serve the foster youth populations. During her time in London, Lisa presented ‘A Whole School Approach to Mental Health’ to the Greater London Authority, highlighting interventions of best-practice to improve mental health outcomes among children in secondary school. Lisa is passionate about improving health equity within institutions, especially for Arab Americans who often face additional barriers when seeking care.
Asmaa Hasan
Asmaa Hasan is a Palestinian-American bioengineering professional passionate about using science and technology to serve others. She works as a Specialist in Clinical Biologics at AstraZeneca, supporting the delivery of life-saving medicines. Asmaa earned a B.S. in Chemical Engineering with a concentration in Bioengineering and Biotechnology from UMBC and is pursuing a Master of Engineering in Bioengineering at the University of Maryland. A committed advocate for equity in STEM, Asmaa has held leadership roles in national engineering and professional organizations, where she champions mentorship, outreach, and inclusive programming to uplift underrepresented communities. Rooted in her Arab heritage, she is an active member of the Arab American Association of Engineers and Architects and shares her culture through the arts as a henna artist and co-organizer of tatreez (traditional Palestinian embroidery) circles across Maryland. Through her work and community engagement, Asmaa aims to empower others and celebrate the resilience of her heritage.
Youssef Hasweh
Youssef Hasweh, 23, is a Palestinian-Moroccan Brooklyn native and recent alum of the University of Chicago. Youssef has developed a higher-education advocacy platform connecting students to resources and scholarships making education more accessible. He’s built a community of over 300 thousand students, amassing well over 150 million total views of his educational content. Through his work, he’s been able to become a 6x Scholarship Founder at 23, giving out more than $18,500 to students in his community. Additionally, through my work in the creator industry, I have led and executed campaigns with Coach, Ralph Lauren, CVS, Dell, Prime Student, YouTube, and many more brands, non-profits, and orgs. This has allowed Youssef to represent his Arab community in spaces, including keynote speaker at Adweek’s Social Media, College Influencer of the Year, and 1 of 10 Community Leaders chosen by TikTok for their Creator Diversity Collective supporting Arab initiatives across TikTok globally.
Jude Husein
Jude Husein is a passionate advocate for underserved communities. Born in Palestine and raised in North Philadelphia, she has built a strong track record in community organizing, political strategy and advocacy. Currently pursuing her master’s at La Salle University, Jude serves as Chief of State Advocacy and Strategic Initiatives for the Pennsylvania State Senate, where she is the only Arab staffer in the General Assembly and serves as Deputy Executive Director of PhillyBOLT. A TEDx speaker and Pew Emerging Leaders Corps alum, Jude actively contributes to boards and initiatives such as Philadelphia250, City Commissioners Language Advisory Committee and multiple community advisory committees. Drawing from her extensive background in strategy development for nonprofit, political, and youth-serving organizations, Jude founded Dome Strategies LLC, a Consulting Firm. Jude ensures that marginalized voices are not just heard but also incorporated into decision-making processes. Named Activist of the Year by the Philadelphia Citizen, her unwavering commitment to community organizing, strategic planning, and political advocacy establishes her as a respected messenger and advocate for the diverse residents across the Commonwealth and beyond.
Usama Ibrahim
Usama Ibrahim is a litigation associate at Kirkland & Ellis LLP. Prior to then, he clerked for the Honorable Sarah L. Cave of the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York and the Honorable Dana M. Sabraw, Chief Judge of the United States District Court for the Southern District of California. Prior to his clerkships, he was a Public Interest Law Initiative Fellow at Legal Aid Chicago. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Illinois at Chicago, where he was a member of the Honor’s College. There, he was awarded the Jane Addams Distinguished Service Award, the Eugertha Bates Memorial Award, and the Chancellor’s Student Service Award. He earned his Juris Doctorate from Northwestern Pritzker School of Law, where he was the President of StreetLaw, Habeas Chorus, and the Muslim Law Students Association. He also served as a Notes Editor on the Northwestern University Law Review, and a student attorney with the Supreme Court Clinic.
Tariq Issa
Tariq Issa is an orthopaedic surgery resident completing his training at Mount Sinai in New York City with a focus on advancing spine care through research, innovation, and health equity. Born and raised in the United States with Palestinian and Jordanian roots, he earned his medical degree summa cum laude from Northwestern University and was elected into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honors Society. He completed his undergraduate studies at Vanderbilt University where he served as the student body president. Tariq has published over 100 peer-reviewed articles, with research spanning spine surgery outcomes, health policy, and healthcare disparities. He has held leadership roles in the Illinois State Medical Society and American Medical Association where his advocacy has shaped state healthcare legislation. He is committed to delivering high-value care and mentoring the next generation of clinician-scholars, particularly those of Arab and Muslim backgrounds. Tariq draws deep inspiration from his cultural heritage and family, and he hopes to be a bridge between science, policy, and the communities he serves.
Julianna Jadon
Julianna is the founder of Habiby Hub — a growing community platform that creates intentional spaces for Arabs across the U.S. to meet, connect, and feel seen. What began as a simple WhatsApp group has evolved into a full-fledged movement, now with over 10,000 members and events ranging from dinners and concert outings to sports groups and more. The first singles mixer in Miami? It sold out within days. Without a traditional marketing background — no formal degree or set blueprint — Julianna built everything through intuition, heart, and an unwavering drive to create what didn’t exist for people like her. Today, she works full-time in marketing and event management while continuing to grow Habiby Hub and launching Habiby Hour, a podcast centered on Arab voices, drama, and storytelling. Whether she’s curating unforgettable experiences, fostering meaningful connections, or sipping her daily Haute Coffee latte (a non-negotiable), Julianna’s mission remains constant: to make people feel like they belong.
Ray Kaidbay
Ray Kaidbay (she/her) is a doctoral student (Psy.D.) at the Michigan School of Psychology. She pursued her BA in Psychology at the American University of Beirut in Lebanon and her master’s in Clinical Applications of Psychology from Kingston University of London. After the Beirut explosion on August 4th, 2020, Ray co-founded a mental health initiative called Be Brave Beirut (BBB). BBB was born out of the recognition that the Lebanese government lacked the means and ability to address the mental health needs of the victims of the explosion victims and anyone in need of support. Ray is currently a clinical practicum student at the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor.
Lara Kamal
Lara Kamal is an Iraqi-American data scientist with a background in mathematics, astrophysics, and artificial intelligence. Driven by a lifelong curiosity about the universe, she pursued graduate studies in astrophysics at UC Berkeley, applying machine learning to cosmology to explore the large-scale structure of the universe. Her research was fueled by a deep desire to seek answers to the fundamental questions of our existence. She is currently a Research Data Scientist at Booz Allen Hamilton, where she focuses on AI applications in quantum computing, bridging cutting-edge research with real-world innovation. Beyond her work, Lara remains deeply connected to her Arab heritage and actively engages with her community through music. As a member of an Arabic choir, she celebrates cultural traditions through song, fostering both artistic expression and a sense of belonging.
Cinderella Ksebati
Cinderella Ksebati is a Syrian American creator shaping the next generation of confident performers through vocal education, cultural storytelling, and digital innovation. Her YouTube channel has over 9.8 million views and reaches singers in 60+ countries. She is the founder of Sing with Cinderella, a premier vocal training program offering personalized coaching, workshops, and performances for young artists across the U.S. As a performer and adjudicator, she has appeared on stages across the U.S., South America, and Europe, and supports students of all backgrounds in developing confidence through the arts. Her educational recital Middle Eastern Perspective explores depictions of the MENA region through Western classical music, American musical theater, and Arabic song—bridging cultures through performance. She is also the author of two singer journals and the creator of Ace the Audition, a digital course helping students book lead roles. Through teaching and content creation, Cinderella makes vocal training more accessible and inclusive for all.
Lana Mahbouba
Lana Mahbouba emigrated to the United States at 9 years old and became a citizen at 14. She is the first Muslim woman and first Iraqi student to graduate from Deep Springs College, a two year college on the California-Nevada border where 26 students engage in self governance, physical labor, and humanities focused seminar classes. Lana is currently pursuing a self-designed course of study in Environmental Health on a pre-medical track at Williams College, including a year at Harvard College, and aspires to specialize in gynecology and pursue a PhD in Environmental Health. She researches the environmental impacts on reproductive health and has conducted fieldwork in contaminated sites across Iraq, Alaska, Canada, and Chile. Guided by a commitment to sustainable activism, she works to build alliances and advocate for the dignity and autonomy of mothers and their children. Outside of her studies and research, Lana enjoys riding horses and hiking.
Reem Matar
Reem Matar, M.B.B.S, is currently completing her Internal Medicine Residency at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. She holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery from St George’s University of London and an Honors Bachelor of Arts and Science from the University of Toronto. Reem is also pursuing an Advanced Master of Public Health at Columbia University. A member of the prestigious Sigma Xi Research Society, she has co-authored over 100 publications and contributed to groundbreaking research. Reem is deeply committed to the Arab American community, mentoring youth and advocating for healthcare equity. Her leadership, research contributions, and dedication to service make her a role model for future generations in medicine and public health.
Ali Mosawi
Ali Mosawi is quickly rising among today’s most promising entrepreneurs, known for his bold vision and strong sense of purpose. In December 2023, he launched 707 HairFactory, an award-winning barbershop that has rapidly become a local favorite, known for its high quality service and welcoming atmosphere. A devoted Muslim, Ali leads with faith and honor, actively giving back through charitable work and youth mentorship. His ambition goes far beyond the barbershop. He’s seen making strategic moves in real estate and has big plans to expand 707 HairFactory, aiming to leave a lasting mark on the hair/beauty industry. Additionally, his haircare brand, Mosawi Magic, has grew from a garage setup to a thriving e-commerce operation adding on to his vast portfolio. With vision, values, and ambition, Ali Mosawi is building more than businesses—he’s putting the sons of Karbala on the map.
Adan Murad
Adan Murad is an organizer and event production & marketing specialist who transforms big ideas into meaningful experiences—both for some of the world’s most recognizable brands and her local community. A Palestinian American with roots in both the fallahi village of Beit Anan and New Orleans, she is fiercely driven and inspired by the hospitality, humor, art, generosity, food, traditions, and struggles of both communities. Adan proudly serves as a founding member and co-host of NOLA Freedom Forum, a conversation series exploring and connecting global liberation movements; an organizer with Palestine Film Day, a community event series that uplifts Palestinian perspectives and experiences through the art of film; and a founding member and board member of Palestinian Youth Movement New Orleans. Leveraging a decade of event planning and community-building experience, Adan’s various efforts and engagements have raised over $350,000 to support Palestinian causes since November 2023.
Asel Mustafa
Asel Mustafa is a third-year Palestinian medical student at Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine. Born and raised in the U.S. Virgin Islands, she brings a unique Caribbean perspective to health equity and advocacy. She co-founded and led the BU chapters of the American Muslim Medical Student Association (AMMSA), the National Arab American Medical Association (NAAMA), and Bridging Gaps in Care (BGC), a student-run health equity initiative. Asel has organized numerous campus-wide & inter-school events—including fundraisers, educational panels, cultural showcases, and film screenings—to amplify Arab, Muslim, and underrepresented voices in medicine. Asel serves as a student delegate on the Massachusetts Medical Society, advocating for inclusive, justice-centered policy reform. A poet, artist, and speaker, she uses creative expression to explore identity, grief, and resistance. She received the CAIR “Steward of Justice” award and is currently writing a poetry book centered on the Palestinian experience.
Tammam Odeh
Tammam Odeh is a Syrian harpist, guitarist, and music educator based in Fredonia, NY. He completed his undergraduate studies at the High Institute of Music in Damascus, Syria, and earned an Advanced Performance Studies certificate at Bard College. He is currently finishing his Master of Music degree at the State University of New York at Fredonia, where he is also a member of the Fredonia Guitar Quartet. Tammam has performed with the Fredonia Symphony Orchestra and the Bard College Orchestra, and has given solo recitals on both harp and guitar. He has appeared in works by renowned composer Tan Dun and is passionate about blending classical traditions with contemporary and culturally inspired music. With over eight years of teaching experience, he has taught in Syria, Oman, and the United States, working with students of all ages. He composes original music that fosters artistic expression and cross-cultural dialogue.
Yaqoub Saadeh
Yaqoub Saadeh graduated from Indiana University Indianapolis (IUI) with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology. He also received a certificate for Child Abuse and Neglect through the school of Social Work and studied Arabic and Islamic studies. Since graduating in May 2024, he has been working full-time with the Indiana Muslim Advocacy Network (IMAN) as their Community Engagement Coordinator. He also currently serves as the political advocacy chair for the Arab-American Anti Discrimination Committee (ADC) chapter in Indiana. Yaqoub is from Nablus, Palestine but he grew up in Fishers, Indiana. He was very involved in community service from a young age and his involvement continued throughout his college years after receiving a service-based leadership scholarship. He went on to co-found the Middle Eastern Student Association (MESA) at IUI to create a safe space for Arab students. In 2024, he was awarded the William M. Plater Civic Engagement Medallion as well as the Bonner Scholar Community Impact Award for his dedication and service to the community.
Deena Sukhon
Deena Sukhon is a third-year MD candidate at Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, with a Master’s in Business Management from the University of Michigan. She co-founded Avicenna Community Health Screening with her brother, an undergraduate pre-med student, to provide essential health screenings—such as BP, HR, glucose, and O2—at local shelters, mosques, and community centers. The initiative focuses on training volunteers and non-medical professionals in basic health screening techniques to increase access to healthcare in underserved communities. By connecting aspiring pre-med students with medical professionals, Deena bridges the gap in healthcare services while fostering the next generation of healthcare providers. In her research role at the Center for Healthcare Outcomes & Policy, she contributes to the development of the HeroiQ AI-driven hernia risk calculator and has led interviews to improve the Fundamentals of Leadership Development course through SAGES, focused on DEI in surgical leadership. A former touring Dabke dancer who performed for over 1,500 people, Deena now leads cultural workshops at Arab American heritage events. She is passionate about learning new languages and plans to open free clinics for refugee populations while also mentoring first-generation students through the healthcare field.
Raya Tuffaha
Raya Tuffaha is a Palestinian actor, fight director and writer based in Seattle. Her work champions Palestinian women and their self-determination. After completing the first undergraduate thesis in fight direction at Swarthmore College, she returned to Seattle and helped revitalize The Seattle Sockeye stage combat workshop. As the only Arab fight director in the PNW, her practice highlights the body as an art form and record keeper. She studies both stage combat and Palestinian self-sustenance as models for collective safety, care & liberation. She’s published two poetry books, and is excited to continue her writing career as a poet, playwright, ethnographer and children’s book author, with an ultimate goal to preserve Palestinian culture and heritage. Her community work began with artistic PTSD relief for Syrian refugee children in Amman, and she continues to support arts organizations in their commitment to equity and justice.
Fatima Yahya
Fatima Yahya is a legal advocate and graduate from Wayne State University, earning a 3.98 GPA with degrees in Political Science Honors, Philosophy, and Peace and Conflict Studies. A former refugee from Iraq, her experiences shape her commitment to justice and service. She previously served as District Manager for Michigan House District 9, where she connected underserved constituents to essential state and local resources. Currently, Fatima interns at the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MI), supporting civil rights and legal advocacy. She also assists Arab clients, many trauma survivors, at Eva Jirjis Legal Consulting with U.S. citizenship applications, offering translation during USCIS interviews. On Saturdays, Fatima leads the middle school girls division at her local mosque, mentoring and counseling youth. Guided by purpose, she serves her community, honoring her own journey from displacement to belonging, and advocating for justice, dignity, and hope for others.
Kaitlyn Zablock
Kaitlyn Zablock is an Iraqi-American medical student from metro-Detroit committed to advancing women’s healthcare in underserved communities. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Biomolecular Science with a minor in Gender & Health from the University of Michigan. Her extracurricular involvement and leadership guided her work with under-resourced populations in medical and social contexts. As a medical student at Wayne State University School of Medicine (WSUSOM), Kaitlyn continues tackling community disparities. As the president of WSUSOM American Medical Women’s Association, she founded the school’s first menstrual hygiene kit program. Under her leadership, the program donated over 400 kits to free clinics in Detroit. Kaitlyn also served as the WSUSOM ACCESS x NAAMA Coordinator, connecting medical students with volunteer opportunities at ACCESS. Additionally, her ongoing research focuses on healthcare accessibility barriers among Arab American women. As she advances her medical education, Kaitlyn aspires to become a physician-leader who champions advocacy and culturally-informed care.
Razan Zaher
Razan Zaher is a proud school leader and PhD candidate in Educational Leadership at Oakland University whose journey has touched lives across continents. She began her career in Lebanon as one of the youngest professors and assistant directors, supporting students with special needs and igniting change with compassion and conviction. With years of teaching and leadership experience across U.S. and international schools, she brings a wealth of knowledge, cultural understanding, and an unwavering commitment to equity and service. Honored as a former Miss Arab USA finalist and 2024 Cultural Ambassador by the Centennial International Institute of Metropolitan Detroit and The World in America, Razan’s impact reaches both school communities and broader society. She leads with the belief that education is not about titles but about transformation. Her mission is to cultivate spaces where every voice is valued, every learner is empowered, and every challenge becomes a stepping stone toward something greater than imagined.
For more information about the 30 Under 30 initiative click here.
For more information about the Arab America Foundation, click here.
For media inquiries, contact Claire Boyle here
Compiled by Arab America
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