Loading ...Arab America Foundation Announces 40 Under 40 Awardees--Class of 2025
For Immediate Release
Washington, DC (July 2, 2025): The Arab America Foundation announced today the awardees of their 40 Under 40 initiative–Class of 2025. Forty Arab Americans from various fields and disciplines were announced.
The awardees are: Hia Abdelqader, Salma Abdalla, Ziad Abdulmalik, Thafer Abu Qamir, Ranya Ahmed, Zayn Alexandre, Sahar Al-louthai, Omar Alhalabi, Ahmed Almuhr, Kamal Alsawafy, Zaynab Alsharif, Muhannad Alsyouf, Leila Bahbah, Lina Barkawi, Eli Bohemond, John Boutros, Natalie El-Eid, Layla Elabed, Ali Elaydi, Youssef Elkei, Ahmed Elkhanany, Mostafa Elmorsy, Jackie Essis, Marwa Hachem, Raeda Hamra, Zeinab Kachmar Zahid, Amel Khalil, Rawan Latif, Amir Makled, Shady Makary, Jad Mubaslat, Fadel Nabilsi, Emad Nawasreh, Haidar Nemer, Samantha Shada, Muhammad Shehata, Ali Sobh, Safouh Takrouri, Shatha Yas, Zeinab Zaiter, and Paul Zecharia.
40 Under 40 is a celebration of accomplished young Arab Americans. The program showcases Arab American professionals in a wide range of fields, including education, law, public service, politics, nonprofit work, business, entrepreneurship, engineering, medicine, the arts, entertainment, writing, and media. These young professionals have outstanding achievements both in the workplace and in their communities.
“The 2025 class of 40 Under 40 reflects the incredible diversity and dynamism of Arab Americans across the nation. These leaders come from every corner of our community—innovators, advocates, artists, and entrepreneurs—who each make a powerful mark in their respective fields. Their collective achievements inspire unity, pride, and a renewed commitment to lifting up the next generation,” said Warren David, co-founder of the Arab America Foundation and president of Arab America.
All awardees are under the age of 40, excel in their respective industries, and are actively engaged in promoting their heritage and culture to empower their communities and make a positive difference. The competition is open annually to all professionals who live and/or work in the United States and are of Arab descent.
The Arab America Foundation and its board are grateful for the leadership of the initiative’s coordinators, Nabelah Ghareeb and Elias J. Khalil, as well as the prestigious panel of judges.
About the Arab America Foundation
The Arab America Foundation (AAF) is a non-profit (501c3) educational and cultural organization. The mission of AAF is to promote the Arab heritage, empower and educate others about the Arab identity, connect Arab Americans, and build coalitions with diverse organizations across the U.S.
Awardees will be honored at the CONNECT Empowerment Summit, October 24-25, at the Teaneck Marriott Glenpointe, Teaneck. New Jersey.
For more information about the 40 Under 40 initiative, click here.
For more information about the Arab America Foundation, click here.
For media inquiries, contact Claire Boyle here.
The 40 Under 40 Awardees, Class of 2025
Hia Abdelqader
Hia Abdelqader is a Palestinian-American Deaf Educator and LSLS Certified Auditory-Verbal Educator committed to advancing culturally responsive care for deaf and hard-of-hearing children. Her cultural background informs her work with Arabic-speaking families and strengthens her ability to support other underserved communities, fostering more consistency and improving long-term outcomes. As Senior Education Specialist at the NYU Cochlear Implant Center, she guides families through intervention decisions, consults on complex cases, and contributes to system-level improvements through advisory board involvement, consultation, professional presentations, and the development of clinic protocols. She collaborates with professionals across the MENA region to identify service gaps, expand resources, and strengthen deaf education. Hia was recently awarded the LISHA Special Citation Award in recognition of her contributions and commitment to D/HH children. She hopes to continue advancing equitable access and strengthening the development of deaf education across the MENA region.
Salma Abdalla
Salma Abdalla is a dedicated epidemiologist and first-generation Sudanese Muslim immigrant whose work centers on health equity, community empowerment, and culturally competent public service. At the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, she leads disease surveillance and outbreak response efforts for infectious diseases, including COVID-19, RSV, and influenza. With a Master of Science in Public Health from Grand Canyon University and Certified in Public Health (CPH), Salma also contributes to the future of the field as a Subject Matter Expert for the CPH exam. Her leadership has extended from managing COVID-19 response teams to volunteering with Catholic Charities, where she supports newly arrived Arab and Muslim refugees. A bilingual Arabic speaker and frequent speaker on global health and equity, Salma combines technical expertise with empathy, making her a respected leader and advocate within both the public health and Arab American communities.
Ziad Abdulmalik
Ziad Abdulmalik is a dynamic leader, entrepreneur, and community advocate with a proven track record of service and innovation. A first-generation American of Yemeni descent, Ziad is a husband, father of three, and a black belt martial artist. As CEO of United System LLC and Suburban Global System, he has led efforts to streamline operations and build sustainable business solutions across logistics, maintenance, and technology sectors. A former candidate for Michigan State Representative, he has dedicated years to civic leadership and public service. He served two terms as a Dearborn City Beautiful Commissioner and Chair of the Business Committee, promoting economic growth and neighborhood development. With hands-on experience spanning mechanical work, executive leadership, and political organizing, Ziad brings insight from countless backgrounds and disciplines. Grounded in faith, purpose, and resilience, he continues to lead by example through integrity, action, and community impact.
Thafer Abu Qamir
Thafer Abu Qamir is a Palestinian American writer and organizer based in New Orleans. He is the co-founder and co-host of the NOLA Freedom Forum, a lecture series that explores the interconnectedness of global liberation struggles. He is also a founding member and board member of the Palestinian Youth Movement New Orleans and an organizer of the Palestine Film Day event series. Thafer is also a 2025 Young Leaders for Social Change Fellow.
Ranya Ahmed
Dr. Ranya Ahmed, a Bahraini American, is a social justice advocate with a decade of experience in the nonprofit and academic sectors. She is passionate about “Data for Good” – using data to improve efficiencies within organizations, as well as using data for advocacy. Ranya is the Head of Analytics at the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), where she oversees technical projects on a wide range of civil society issues, including immigration and racial justice. She also serves on Amnesty International-USA’s Board of Directors. Dr. Ahmed holds an MPA from the University of Missouri, a Master’s degree in International Studies, and a Doctorate in Political Science with a concentration in International Relations and National Security from the University of Kansas. She also completed a Research Fellowship at Harvard University’s FXB Center for Health & Human Rights. She has published a series of peer-reviewed articles, including a book on counterterrorism.
Zayn Alexandre
Zayn Alexandre is a Lebanese American director, writer, and actor based in New York City. His debut short film, “Abroad”, premiered at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival. His follow-up, “Manara”, received a special screening at the 76th Venice Film Festival (Venice Days) and went on to win over seven international jury awards. A recipient of the Khayrallah Prize for Lebanese Diaspora Art ’20 and an alum of the TIFF Filmmaker Lab ’21, Alexandre holds graduate degrees from Columbia University and NYU. His work explores identity, family dynamics, and generational tension, often grounded in sharp societal critique. His latest short film, “Saint Rose”, premiered at the 2024 Red Sea International Film Festival and was selected for a special screening at the 2025 Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival.
Sahar Al-louthai
Sahar Hasan ( سحر اللوذعي)، is a Yemeni-American artist, curator, and founder of Qamaria for Arts, a nonprofit, now registered in Pennsylvania after operating independently. Her work centers on Arab identity, post-war narratives, and women’s suppressed voices. She was honored by a New York Congresswoman for her impact on the community through the arts in 2022. In 2025, she was named Yemen’s Fine Arts Ambassador at a UNESCO-affiliated event in Dubai. Her curated exhibition, “Do You See Me?”, at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum, endorsed by the City of New York and attended by Mayor Eric Adams, provided crucial media exposure and financial support while introducing Arabic aesthetics to a US audience. Sahar also organized exhibitions on Arab heritage and Islamic art in Manhattan, attended by UN delegates and public officials, addressing Islamophobia through cultural engagement. Her mission is to elevate Arab-American voices, celebrate Arab and Islamic heritage, and empower future generations.
Omar Alhalabi
Dr. Omar Alhalabi is a medical oncologist at MD Anderson Cancer Center specializing in genitourinary cancers, with a particular focus on bladder cancer. He leads clinical trials aimed at overcoming immunotherapy resistance and advancing treatment for rare subtypes of bladder cancer. His research has been recognized and supported by national organizations, including the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), through Young Investigator and Career Development Awards. Dr. Alhalabi also serves as co-chair of the Clinical Effectiveness Committee within his department, where he is actively involved in initiatives aimed at optimizing the management of immunotherapy-related toxicities. His work integrates clinical care, translational research, and collaborative leadership to improve outcomes for patients with bladder cancer.
Ahmed Almuhr
Recognized as one of the Top 10 Business Leaders Driving Change in the GCC and named among Spotlight’s 40 Under 40 Finance Visionaries, Ahmed Almuhr is a results-driven finance leader with a global perspective and a passion for transformation. He brings deep expertise from Wall Street, now applied to managing the World Bank’s investment portfolios, which exceed $100 billion. His work spans strategic finance, investment management, and innovation across both public and private sectors. Ahmed has led high-impact initiatives that have shaped market outcomes, advanced economic development, and positively impacted the Arab community in Washington, DC. His insights and achievements have been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, Reuters, and S&P Global, underscoring the significance and reach of his contributions. He remains committed to leveraging finance as a force for sustainable growth, regional progress, and long-term value creation.
Kamal Alsawafy
Kamal Alsawafy is a Dearborn City Councilman, proud Army veteran, and dedicated public servant committed to delivering for residents in every corner of the city. Elected as the first Iraqi American to serve on the council, Kamal brings a grassroots, community-first approach to local government, focused on transparency, equity, and real results. He regularly engages residents through multilingual outreach and has championed initiatives supporting small businesses, inclusive recreation, and more accessible city services. Kamal also co-founded the Iraqi American Business Network to help local entrepreneurs access resources and expand their businesses. In addition to his civic work, he serves as a U.S. Army Officer (Captain) in the Michigan National Guard. He is a Bronze Star recipient, having led a multinational mission to repatriate displaced civilians from Syria back to Iraq. Kamal is proud to serve both his city and his country, working every day to make government more responsive, effective, and inclusive for all.
Zaynab Alsharif
Zaynab Alsharif is a Palestinian-Irish artist and cultural leader committed to preserving Palestinian heritage through the traditional art of tatreez. She is the founder of Kana’an Collective, a cultural initiative that connects Palestinians in the diaspora to their roots while uplifting the work and dignity of artisans in Palestine. Through Kana’an, Zaynab leads community workshops and tatreez circles across the DMV area, fostering cultural education, intergenerational exchange, and a deepened sense of identity. Her leadership centers collective memory and cultural continuity, creating spaces where tradition is actively practiced and honored. In addition to her artistic work, Zaynab balances a full-time professional career with her commitment to cultural advocacy, ensuring that Palestinian identity remains visible, resilient, and empowered across communities.
Muhannad Alsyouf
Dr. Muhannad Alsyouf is a surgeon-scientist and Urologic Oncologist at Loma Linda University Health, born and raised in Jordan. He completed advanced training in urologic oncology at the University of Southern California, a world-renowned institution in the field of urologic oncology. Dr. Alsyouf has built a distinguished career focused on advancing cancer care through surgical expertise and innovative research. His work spans testis, bladder, and prostate cancers, with an emphasis on cancer outcomes and health disparities. A prolific researcher, he has published widely and received recognition from national and international societies. He currently leads several multicenter clinical trials on testis cancer outcomes, aiming to improve survivorship and quality of life. Dedicated to mentorship and academic leadership, Dr. Alsyouf actively supports the next generation of physician-scientists, including trainees from the Arab world. His work reflects a deep commitment to scientific discovery, patient care, and global health.
Leila Bahbah
With a pulse on culture and a passion for purpose, Leila Bahbah crafts brands that don’t just sell, but stand for something. As the U.S. Women’s Health Brand Lead at Perrigo, she is the driving force behind the historic launch of Opill—America’s first daily over-the-counter birth control pill. She also architected the brand’s groundbreaking partnership with the WNBA, centering health equity and reproductive freedom. Leila’s career spans the CPG and healthcare sectors, from heritage brands at General Mills and Conagra to disruptive Rx-to-OTC innovations. Known for her empathy-driven leadership and boundary-pushing creativity, she builds inclusive teams and bold brands that drive real impact. Originally from Phoenix, Arizona, and a proud first-generation Palestinian-American, Leila holds an MBA from Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business and a BS from the University of Arizona. She is deeply committed to elevating women’s voices and people’s choices in healthcare.
Lina Barkawi
Lina Barkawi is the founder of Lina’s Thobe, a platform dedicated to helping Palestinians and allies reclaim the tradition of tatreez by creating their own handmade Palestinian thobes. As a Palestinian Panamanian raised in the diaspora, Lina began stitching as a personal act of reconnection, and soon realized how deeply others were searching for the same. Through digital courses, a global membership community, a sold-out kit line, and her podcast, Tatreez Talk, she invites thousands into the world of Palestinian embroidery, not just as art, but as a form of resistance, storytelling, and self-expression. Before founding her business, Lina built a foundation in design thinking and strategic innovation as a consultant at Accenture and product developer at Mastercard’s innovation lab. She holds degrees from NYU and Virginia Tech, and currently lives in New York City, where she continues to dream of a future where every Palestinian proudly wears a thobe of her own making.
Eli Bohemond
Eli Bohemond is a Lebanese-American career coach and social entrepreneur who has empowered over 7,000 individuals across more than 120 countries through his purpose-driven coaching company. As the former Director of Coaching at WeWork’s Flatiron School, he scaled the coaching team from 30 to 110 members while maintaining a 92% job placement rate for over 3,000 students. Previously, as an adjunct professor at Hult International Business School in London, he achieved the highest global evaluation rating among all professors for student satisfaction. His commitment to Arab American advancement runs deep through mentorship and community service. Eli has mentored hundreds of first-generation students, with mentees securing positions at Google, Microsoft, and Adobe. He selected and mentored two Arab community members through their early career stages, with one launching a successful social media agency and the other securing admission to competitive medical school programs. A certified career coach with dual degrees from Penn State, Eli donates 10% of the company’s revenues to effective charities and has created a pro-bono workshop series for first-generation, low-income high school students.
John Boutros
John Boutros is a proud Lebanese American committed to amplifying visibility, inclusion, and equity at the intersection of cultural identity and LGBTQ+ advocacy. As a Service Leader at Cardinal Health, a Fortune 15 Company, he brings both professional excellence and lived experience to every initiative, using his platform to champion representation in spaces where Arab and queer voices are often underrepresented. He serves on the board of Arab Americans of Cleveland (AAC), working to uplift the local Arab Community through data-driven advocacy and cultural engagement. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the LGBTQ+ Centers of Greater Cleveland and is Co-Chair of Programming for Cardinal Health’s PROUD ERG. John creates spaces where queer people and people of color are heard and celebrated. Fluent in Arabic, inspired by travels to the South of France, and shaped by a childhood in Beirut, Lebanon, John believes authenticity is a form of leadership. His work bridges heritage and identity, paving the way for future generations of Arab LGBTQ+ leaders.
Natalie El-Eid
Dr. Natalie El-Eid specializes in contemporary transnational literatures and cultures of the Arab world. Natalie’s book project, “Druze Afterlives: Between Bodies and Borders,” draws attention to the testimonies of transnational Druze communities, most notably regarding their fundamental belief in reincarnation, as an intervention into studies of trauma and memory relating to what she frames as the “ongoing Lebanese Civil War.” Dr. El-Eid is the current American Druze Foundation Postdoctoral Fellow in the Center of Contemporary Arab Studies at Georgetown University, as well as the recipient of the 2025-26 ACLS Marwan M. and Ute Kraidy Centennial Fellowship in the Study of the Arab World and Latin America.
Layla Elabed
Layla Elabed is a Palestinian American mom, organizer, and political strategist from Dearborn. She led the “Listen to Michigan, Vote Uncommitted” campaign, which mobilized over 100,000 protest votes in the 2024 primary and ignited a national movement demanding U.S. accountability for the genocide in Gaza. She co-founded the Uncommitted National Movement and continues to organize anti-war voters and Arab and Muslim communities—not just for visibility, but for power. Her work includes campaigns to win immigrant protections in schools, challenge corporate polluters poisoning neighborhoods in Wyandotte, MI, and foster Black and Arab solidarity across Southeast Michigan. She also helped launch Arab Americans for Progress to build a genuine political home rooted in strategy, not symbolism. As a mother of three raising her children in Dearborn, she organizes with urgency and vision for a future where her community is safe, powerful, and impossible to ignore.
Ali Elaydi
Dr. Ali Elaydi is a Gaza – Born , Dallas raised , Yale trained orthopedic surgeon. He traveled to Gaza on a mission trip, where he performed surgeries under heavy bombardment. His experience, including being denied re-entry for a second mission, has fueled his passion for medical outreach and advocacy. Dr. Elaydi’s expertise in orthopedic surgery and his global perspective are reflected in his scholarly contributions. He has co-authored influential research, book chapters and given numerous talks, focusing on critical medical issues in Gaza with features on major media outlets such as CNN, The Guardian, and NPR. Outside of surgery, Dr. Elaydi is a tireless advocate for his people in Gaza, channeling his experiences into meaningful action. He continues to be an outspoken figure in the global conversation on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, balancing his medical career with a growing platform of social advocacy.
Youssef Elkei
Youssef Elkei is a first-generation Egyptian-American diplomat with over a decade of service in U.S. foreign policy. Currently stationed at the White House Situation Room, he is the first Egyptian-American to hold this pivotal role. His prior assignments span the Secretary of State’s staff, the U.S. Mission to the United Nations in Geneva, and U.S. Consulates General in Istanbul and Cape Town. Youssef is dedicated to fostering authentic dialogue among stakeholders, particularly in high-stakes shuttle diplomacy. His commitment has earned him multiple State Department Superior Honor Awards and Randolph College’s inaugural Distinguished Young Alumni Award. Fluent in Arabic, with conversational proficiency in Turkish and French, and a working knowledge of Farsi, Youssef brings a rich cultural perspective to his work. Inspired daily by his wife and mother, he enjoys skiing, photography, and exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations in his free time.
Ahmed Elkhanany
Dr. Ahmed Elkhanany is an Egyptian-American breast medical oncologist and assistant professor of medicine at Baylor College of Medicine. A founding member of the Egyptian American Association for Medical Training and Research (EAMTAR), he has spent 15 years expanding the network to 100,000 members and developing grant-funded programs that demystify U.S. residency, fellowship, and waiver pathways for physicians from the Middle East. He co-created ENROL, a registry of 1,000+ underserved Hispanic and MENA breast cancer patients, and is launching CureCompass, a patient advocacy hub connecting survivors with newly diagnosed peers. Through the Egyptian American Society of Houston, he spearheaded a landmark mixer that united 200 Egyptian physicians for research and career collaboration. With 30+ peer-reviewed papers, three NCCN guideline contributions, and multiple “Educator of the Year” awards, Dr. Elkhanany champions culturally competent oncology while mentoring the next generation of Arab-American medical leaders.
Mostafa Elmorsy
Established TV Actor, stuntman, and filmmaker. Grew up in an Egyptian diplomatic family and moved to California at age 14. Broke into theater, acting, and stunt work, landing roles in shows like Lioness, 13 Reasons Why, Netflix, The Terminal List, Ramy, Hulu, and FBI. Now, he channels his immigrant experience into writing and directing personal global stories.
Jackie Essis
Jaclyn (Jackie) Essis is an Arab American fashion entrepreneur and founder of KOURIS, a clothing brand deeply rooted in Arab heritage and proudly produced through an entirely Arab-owned supply chain. A third-generation Palestinian-American from Ramallah, Jackie is based in New York City and has over a decade of leadership experience in the fashion industry. She has played a pivotal role in revitalizing iconic American brands, including Juicy Couture, Frye, and Sam Edelman, driving multi—million—dollar growth through strategic merchandising, creative direction, and product innovation. In 2024, Jackie launched KOURIS to celebrate Arab identity through contemporary design. The brand reimagines traditional motifs as a visual language of cultural pride, merging heritage with modern fashion. Jackie actively supports humanitarian efforts, donating a portion of proceeds to Middle East relief. As both a creative leader and cultural ambassador, she is committed to preserving and elevating Arab American stories through fashion, entrepreneurship, and purpose-driven community impact.
Marwa Hachem
Marwa Hachem is a Lebanese-American artist, certified art therapy practitioner, and entrepreneur based in Dearborn, Michigan. She holds a BFA in Fine Arts and Elementary Education and is the founder of Marwa Hachem Fine Arts Studio, a creative space dedicated to healing, self-expression, and community. Her studio offers Kids Art Club, Mommy & Me classes, paint parties, and therapeutic art workshops for women. Inspired by her own journey through postpartum depression, Marwa uses art as a transformative tool for emotional wellness and empowerment. Her work often highlights themes of feminine strength, spiritual connection, and cultural identity. In addition to her studio work, Marwa is a passionate advocate for integrating creativity into mental health, frequently collaborating with local schools, organizations, and wellness professionals. Her mission is to help others reconnect with their inner world through art and creativity, making healing and self-discovery accessible, meaningful, and beautifully expressive.
Raeda Hamra
Raeda Hamra is a seasoned media professional and academic trainer with over a decade of experience in journalism, media production, and education across the U.S. and the Middle East. She currently serves as the CEO of Hamra Media Production Company and as a Student Advisor at Columbia University’s Community College Research Center. A certified Arabic interpreter and academic trainer, she supports journalism programs throughout the region. She holds a Master’s degree in New Media, a Bachelor’s in Media & Communications with a minor in Political Science, and a National Security certificate with honors from the United States. Her media work includes producing award-winning investigative journalism for leading outlets such as Radio Sawa and Ro’ya TV. Her contributions have been recognized by the Thomson Foundation, ARIJ (Arab Reporters for Investigative Journalism), and the King Hussein Cancer Center. Fluent in Arabic and English, Raeda combines strong communication and leadership skills with a robust digital presence, reaching an audience of over 220,000 followers across major platforms.
Zeinab Kachmar Zahid
Zeinab Kachmar Zahid is the founder and lead attorney at ZKZ Law, having practiced as an attorney since 2017. Zeinab founded ZKZ Law in an attempt to continue supporting her family while also being allowed to support her clients. ZKZ Law is proud to be a woman-owned and family-run business.
Amel Khalil
Amel Khalil is a Palestinian American writer, actor, and communications strategist. She is also an adult orphan—a truth that marks the beginning of her story. Her mother passed away before she had the chance to ask about the Nakba, about raising kids in poverty post-9/11, or how she managed to keep them laughing through it all. Like many millennials navigating grief, identity, and creative ambition, she left grad school to pursue acting, with no backup plan. Her performances on shows like FBI, New Amsterdam, and The Equalizer, as well as her experience navigating Hollywood as an Arab, taught her the power in the roles we accept—and the ones we refuse. She came to understand that if she wanted to see her truth reflected in the media, she’d have to write it, demand it, or walk away. Today, she leads communications at Impact Charitable, fundraises for Donkeysaddle Projects, co-hosts It’s Okay Habibi, and runs Pal Perspective, a Palestinian film club. She refuses to be silent about Arab stories, because Arab survival isn’t quiet—it’s poetic, resilient, and, sometimes, just a little too honest at the wrong time.
Rawan Latif
Rawan Latif, PharmD, MPP, is a health policy expert, pharmacist, and Major in the U.S. Air Force dedicated to public service and health care innovation. As a Manager at Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, she leads critical health policy initiatives, including Medicaid program enhancements and federal drug pricing reforms. Her initial path to public service while interning for U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow led to her commissioning in the Air Force. Through her Active and Reserve military career, Rawan deployed twice to U.S. Central Command, directed multiple military pharmacies, and oversaw multimillion-dollar budgets and care delivery for over 800K TRICARE beneficiaries. During her deployment supporting OPERATION INHERENT RESOLVE, she constructed an Islamic prayer room for Muslim military members and base workers, demonstrating her commitment to inclusivity. A proud Arab-American, she actively engages in initiatives promoting health equity, community empowerment, and fostering a deeper understanding of Arab-American contributions to public service and national security.
Amir Makled
Amir Makled is a trial lawyer specializing in serious injury, civil rights, and complex criminal defense cases in both state and federal courts. Since beginning his legal career in 2012, he has represented clients in high-stakes matters, including cases that have garnered national and international attention. He began practicing law alongside his current partner, Cyril Hall, advocating for victims of civil rights violations and those suffering from serious injuries. Today, as managing partner, Amir leads a firm committed to aggressive, strategic, and client-centered representation. He continues to fight for individuals facing life-changing legal challenges—from wrongful death and personal injury claims to serious criminal charges. His practice is grounded in values of integrity, justice, and relentless advocacy. Amir earned his BBA in Finance with high distinction from the University of Michigan-Dearborn and his JD from Wayne State University Law School. He is widely recognized as a results-driven, respected, and relentless trial lawyer.
Jad Mubaslat
Jad Mubaslat is a tech entrepreneur, Bitcoin expert, and passionate community leader who has made waves both nationally and in the Arab American community. At 19, he launched BitQuick.co — the first cryptocurrency marketplace based in Ohio — and scaled it to process over $1.6 million in monthly transactions before its acquisition. He has also served as a blockchain advisor to various startups, delivered keynote speeches, and earned a Master’s degree in Industrial and Human Factors Engineering. Proud of Palestinian heritage, Jad has been outspoken about the conflict in Gaza and is working to educate fellow Americans about the truth. As a Board Member of the Dayton Arab American Forum, and past Treasurer, he champions cultural understanding and civic engagement, especially among young Arabs.
Shady Makary
Shady Makary, an Egyptian-born entrepreneur and film enthusiast, has been a dedicated figure in the entertainment industry since 2011. His journey began as a volunteer at the Dubai International Film Festival, where he discovered his passion for cinema and the business behind it. This experience propelled him into the industry, leading him to work for one of the largest media and promotion firms in the Gulf region. Throughout his career, Shady had the opportunity to collaborate with major international studios such as Paramount, Lionsgate, Fox, and Universal, as well as prominent Bollywood and Arabwood studios.
Fadel Nabilsi
Fadel M. Nabilsi is a first-generation Palestinian American attorney and community advocate. An Ann Arbor native, he earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan with a double major in International and Comparative Studies and Near East Studies, and his Juris Doctor from the Michigan State University College of Law. While in law school, he led the Middle Eastern Law Student Association and served as a liaison to the Office of Diversity and Equity Services. Fadel is a Senior Associate Attorney at HNH Law Group in Dearborn, MI, where he specializes in personal injury and supports the firm’s civil litigation and transactional matters. He has contributed to urgent justice efforts, including assisting in the repatriation of American citizens stranded in Gaza and supporting the legal defense of student protesters advocating for Palestinian rights. Outside of his legal work, Fadel is dedicated to mentorship, education, and collective progress. He serves in leadership roles with the National Arab American Bar Association – Michigan Chapter and the MENA American Chamber of Commerce. His work is grounded in clarity, compassion, and a deep commitment to uplifting underrepresented communities.
Emad Nawasreh
Emad Nawasreh is a distinguished Arab American leader dedicated to cultural diplomacy, cybersecurity, and community empowerment. He is the Founder and President of the Jordanian American Heritage Association, where he promotes cultural awareness and strengthens ties between Jordan and the United States. As CEO of CyberFirm Solutions and a seasoned cybersecurity engineering manager, Emad leads innovative solutions that enhance digital security. He also serves as a respected professor, educating and mentoring future leaders in the field of cybersecurity. With over a decade of experience spanning public, private, and nonprofit sectors, Emad is recognized for his dedication to service, education, and cross-cultural collaboration.
Haidar Nemer
Mr. Haidar Nemer is currently the Chief Executive Officer of Hamadeh Educational Service (HES). He has been with HES since 2013. Mr. Nemer holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in accounting from Wayne State University. With an extensive background in ensuring financial stability for the Academies and working to ensure all needs have been met for HES, Mr. Nemer brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the company. Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated a remarkable ability to ensure stability, foster growth, and navigate complex challenges. His strategic mindset, coupled with a deep understanding of market trends and customer needs, positions our company for a strong future. Mr. Nemer is confident in his ability to continue delivering exceptional services to our communities and stakeholders. His strategic direction will undoubtedly steer HES toward new avenues of growth while staying true to the core values that define HES. He is poised to redefine our standards, push boundaries, and make lasting impacts.
Samantha Shada
Raised in the mountains of Colorado and on the plains of Nebraska, Samantha Shada is a proud descendant of immigrants from Fiaa, Lebanon. She graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in film production from Emerson College in Boston, then moved to California where she has worked with notable companies across the film industry from the William Morris Agency and the United Talent Agency to Universal Pictures, Overbrook Entertainment, and Sony Pictures Studios. Her short films premiered at the Oscar Qualifying® LA Shorts International Film Festival and broadcast worldwide on ShortsTV, while her screenplays participated in Sundance Co//abs, Stowe Story Labs, and the Joan Scheckel Filmmaking Labs. Currently, Shada is preparing to direct her debut narrative feature, titled COME HOME WITH ME, about her experience growing up in the Midwest as an Arab American.
Muhammad Shehata
Muhammad Shehata is a serial entrepreneur and community leader passionate about building lasting legacies through business and service. He is the founder of Cargo Champion, Egypt, with Shehata (Yallah Habibi), and Little Stars Child Care Center. With a degree in Architecture and a minor in Sustainability from Iowa State University, he has successfully transitioned his skills into ventures that uplift and empower communities. Under his leadership, Cargo Champion has grown to over $750,000 in revenue in under a year. He has led more than 100 travelers through Egypt and established the first minority-owned daycare in Black Hawk County. He also serves on the Board of Directors for Madinah Academy of Madison, where he played a key role in raising over $300,000 for the construction of a permanent facility.
Ali Sobh
Ali Sobh is a second-generation Lebanese American, a devoted husband, and a proud father of three. He is a Michigan-based orthopedic surgeon specializing in robotic and minimally invasive hip and knee replacements. In 2023, he was honored as a Top Doctor in Orthopedics in Michigan. He earned his medical degree from Wayne State University with Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) honors at age 24 and achieved the top national score on the Orthopedic In-Training Exam for two consecutive years. Outside medicine, Dr. Sobh is a real estate investor and active member of NAAMA, the Lebanese American Heritage Club, and the American Moslem Society. He has led medical missions to the Middle East, most recently to Iraq, where he provided orthopedic care to refugees, immigrants, and pilgrims. Locally, he regularly volunteers at free clinics in Detroit, delivering care to underserved populations. As a board member of several philanthropic groups, he supports widows, orphans, and displaced Lebanese orphans. He also serves as a clinical instructor at Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, mentoring future physicians.
Safouh Takrouri
Safouh is a member of the Strategy & Analytics group at OpenAI, based in San Francisco. He previously managed the Strategy & Analytics practice at Snowflake, driving key initiatives that fueled the company’s growth. Before that, Safouh spent five years at Goldman Sachs in the Technology Investment Banking group, advising software and e-commerce companies on strategic growth and financial investments. He holds a B.S. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago.
Shatha Yas
Shatha Yas is a comedian, writer, and director – born and raised in Palestine – and currently based in New York. Previously, for over a decade, Shatha served as a policy advisor on high-level peace processes in the Arab world, including Syria, Yemen, and Libya. In this capacity, she supported Arab political and civil society leaders in pursuing diplomatic strategies and promoting their visions for the futures of their countries. After stints inside and outside the United Nations, Shatha decided to transition to storytelling, aiming to connect with people more directly through their screens. Shatha is committed to writing stories that interrogate power and affirm humanity, informed by her upbringing in the Middle East. Her work often centers on people caught in institutions – such as families, governments, and cultural systems – who are trying (and often failing) to thrive. Shatha has performed standup internationally, with her unique political and social commentary, and her scripts have been placed in numerous TV festivals and competitions.
Zeinab Zaiter
Zeinab is a dedicated educator and community advocate based in Dearborn, Michigan, committed to uplifting young people through education and storytelling. She founded Enlightening Books, a book club helping young authors publish their work and has successfully brought many of their stories to life, with the goal of filling library shelves with their voices. Over ten years ago, she and her spouse launched Educare Student Services, a tutoring company that has since grown into a trusted, one-stop educational center for local families. Zeinab supports students with tutoring all subjects, college applications, resume writing, test prep, and more, finding deep joy in guiding them toward their goals. She holds an Associate’s degree in Education and a Bachelor’s in Neuroscience and Biological Studies, and continues to serve as a reliable, inspiring presence in her community.
Paul Zecharia
Paul Zecharia was born in London, Ontario, Canada. He spent much of his childhood with his eyes glued to the television, but it wasn’t until his first visit to Los Angeles in 2001 that he decided to pursue a career in filmmaking. After graduating from Columbia College Chicago, Paul moved to Los Angeles, where he started working as a background actor and a production assistant. He’s written, directed, and acted in several of his own projects, including his award-winning short film Last Call and the upcoming I Don’t Like My Voice. Paul is currently developing his first feature film and a novel series. He has also hosted panels at San Diego Comic-Con, Los Angeles Comic-Con, and WonderCon on Middle Eastern and North African representation in media. When not on set, Paul enjoys photography, cosplaying, and cooking.
Honorable Mention
Mony Loutfi
Mony (Omnia) is a passionate advocate for community development and cultural heritage. Born in Chicago to Egyptian parents, she grew up in a family of small business owners and experienced a childhood with little visible Arab representation. This led her family to spend five years in the Middle East, where Mony deepened her connection to her Arab identity and found her calling in community service. Back in the U.S., she dedicated herself to supporting the Arab diaspora and strengthening community ties. In New York City, she expanded her impact by collaborating with local organizations and city officials on initiatives aimed at empowerment. Her passion for community building eventually led her to the real estate industry, where she now works to develop vibrant, inclusive neighborhoods that create opportunity and lasting impact.
Compiled by Arab America
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