Arab America Foundation Announces Exciting Program for 2026 CONNECT Empowerment Summit

posted on: Oct 6, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

REGISTER HERE

(WASHINGTON, D.C., October 6, 2026) The Arab America Foundation is excited to announce the program for the 2026 CONNECT Empowerment Summit, taking place Friday, November 6, and Saturday, November 7, 2026, at the Westfields Marriott Washington Dulles in Chantilly, Virginia.

This year’s two-day summit will bring Arab Americans from across the country together for an inspiring weekend of leadership, empowerment, culture, and connection. The program features more than 40 speakers, artists, and performers, with engaging panel discussions, interactive workshops, networking opportunities, and the recognition of the Foundation’s Rising Leaders.

Attendees will explore topics ranging from Arab American identity, education, civic engagement, entrepreneurship, media, careers, and leadership to issues shaping the next generation of the community.

CONNECT will also showcase the richness of Arab culture through live music, dance, visual arts, cultural performances, and cuisine, creating an experience that goes far beyond a traditional conference. Special musical performances will bring together talented Arab and Arab American artists representing diverse traditions from across the Arab world.

Throughout the summit, attendees will have opportunities to meet community leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, students, artists, and changemakers; visit exhibitors; engage with sponsors and partners; and build meaningful relationships with Arab Americans from across the United States.

CONNECT is where leadership meets culture, heritage meets the future, and our community comes together. Join us to connect, celebrate, learn, and be empowered.

Westfields Marriott Washington Dulles

Westfields Marriott Washington Dulles , Chantilly, Virginia

CONNECT Empowerment Summit Program

Friday Afternoon, November 6:

12:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Registration and Information

Exhibits Open

Friday Afternoon, November 6, 2026

Opening Session

1:25 pm – 1:30 pm

MC

Blanche Shaheen, Emmy Award Winning Journalist and NBC Lifestyle Correspondent

Welcome: Warren David, President, Arab America, Co-Founder of Arab America Foundation

1:30 pm – 2:15 pm

Who Will Tell Our Story?
For more than 150 years, Arab Americans have helped build this country. Yet too often, others have told our story. This Summit is about taking ownership of our narrative—not through politics or division, but through leadership, education, culture, public service, storytelling, and community.

Panel: We are All Educators: Changing Hearts, Changing Minds, One Conversation at a Time

Whether in the workplace, classroom, neighborhood, or online, every Arab American has an opportunity—and a responsibility—to shape how others understand our community. This conversation explores how everyday interactions can challenge stereotypes, celebrate our heritage, and inspire the next generation to proudly embrace their identity.

Moderator:

Omar Kurdi, Community Advocate. Influencer, and Musical Artist

Panelists

Fadi Abughoush, Arabic Education Innovator, Chicago Public Schools

Karim Nagi, Egyptian Musician, Dancer, and Cultural Educator

Helen Zughaib, Arab American Painter and Multi Media Artist

Bios of Speakers Here

2:30 pm – 3:15 pm

PANEL: Brewing a Movement: How Arab Entrepreneurs Are Changing America’s Taste and Culture

Arab food and coffee are becoming powerful vehicles for entrepreneurship, cultural visibility, and community building. This panel brings together leaders from cafés, bakeries, sweets, packaged foods, beverages, and hospitality to explore how Arab entrepreneurs are introducing new flavors to mainstream America while preserving authenticity.

Moderator: Ahmad Ashkar, Founder and CEO Falafel Inc.

Panelists:

Edward Mafoud, President and Co-Owner, Damascus Bakeries

Youssef Mubarez, CEO, Founder MoKafe

Blanche Shaheen, Emmy Award Winning Journalist, Food Blogger and Author Feast in the Middle East

Nada Shatila, CEO Shatila Bakery, Dearborn, Michigan

Bios of Speakers Here

Networker and Interactive Cultural Moment for Young Professionals

3:40 pm – 4:30 pm

Aftenoon Activities End

4:30 pm

Friday Evening, November 6, 2026

6:00 pm – 7:30 pm

EVENT: Ahlan Networking Reception and Dinner

Ahlan! Welcome to the much-awaited opening reception of the CONNECT Empowerment Summit! This is the moment we’ve all been eagerly anticipating—a joyous kick-off where we come together for the first time to forge new connections. Prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey of empowerment, inspiration, and community. 

7:45 pm – 10:00 pm

EVENT: Fann Wa Tarab Concert and Cultural Evening

Master of Ceremonies

Ameera David, Emmy Award Winning Journalist and Influencer

Open: Warren David, President, Arab America, Co-Founder of Arab America Foundation

PERFORMANCE: Fann Wa Tarab: Tarab Across Generations: The Songs That Raised Us

On Friday, November 6, the 2026 CONNECT Empowerment Summit opens with an evening celebrating the music that has lived in our hearts, our homes, and our families for generations.

Following a 6:00 p.m. reception, Fann Wa Tarab, CONNECT’s signature cultural showcase, takes the stage at 8:00 p.m. with Tarab Across Generations: The Songs That Raised Us.

This year also marks the debut of the Arab America Ensemble, under the musical direction of renowned composer, artist, and qanunist Firas Zreik, and featuring vocalists Mona Miari and Kareem Yousef.

From Umm Kulthum and Fairuz to Abdel Halim Hafez and Wadih El Safi, the evening celebrates the legendary voices and timeless melodies that shaped generations across the Arab world and throughout the diaspora.

These are the songs that filled our parents’ and grandparents’ homes, accompanied family gatherings, echoed through cafés and concert halls, and traveled with immigrants as they built new lives in America. Rooted in poetry, passion, improvisation, and the tradition of tarab, they carry stories of love, longing, homeland, joy, and resilience.

Tarab Across Generations will bring these beloved classics to life while celebrating how their music continues to inspire new generations of Arab Americans.

More than a concert, it is a celebration of memory, identity, heritage, and connection—and the enduring power of Arab music to cross borders, bridge generations, and bring our community together.

The Arab America Ensemble
Musical Direction: Firas Zreik
Featuring Vocalists Mona Miari & Kareem Yousef

OPENING PERFORMANCE: Franco-Algerian Singer-Songwriter Nadir Benmansour and his Band

We are delighted to feature Nadir Benmansour and his band as part of our musical program. Nadir will be joined by two musicians traveling from Paris and four local musicians for a special performance celebrating the rich sounds of North Africa.

Nadir Benmansour is a Franco-Algerian singer-songwriter whose music weaves together Andalusian traditions, Oran Raï, Saharan Gnawa, folk, blues, reggae, and Mediterranean influences. Originally from Tlemcen in western Algeria and now based in Marseille, Nadir performs in several languages and is a soloist with the Arab-Andalusian Orchestra of Provence. Through his music, he celebrates the extraordinary cultural and musical diversity of North Africa.

This special performance is included with full registration to the 2026 CONNECT Empowerment Summit.

REGISTER HERE

SATURDAY Morning Session

Connecting and empowering Arab Americans nationwide with presentations by community leaders, influential women, rising leaders, and awesome performers.

8:00 am-3:30 pm

Registration and Information

Exhibits Open

8:00 am – 9:30 am

EVENT: Man’oushe, Foul, and Qahwa Networking Breakfast

Indulge your senses in authentic Arab and American delicacies and prepare yourself for a delightful morning as you mingle and connect with fellow summit attendees. You’ll have the opportunity to meet and get acquainted with like-minded Arab Americans from diverse backgrounds. 

9:30 am – 3:30 pm

Music Interludes

Abe Diab, Arab Org Keyboardist

Opening Session

9:30 am – 9:45 am

Master of Ceremonies

Sara Shouhayib Alawar, Emmy Award-Winning Journalist

Welcoming Remarks:

Warren David, Co-Founder and Board Member, Arab America Foundation

Dr. Amal David, Co-Founder and Board Member, Arab America Foundation

9:45 am – 10:30 am

PANEL: Leading from the Front: Arab Americans in Public Service, Government & Civic Life

As Arab American political engagement continues to evolve, new questions are emerging: How do communities translate activism into lasting influence? What role do public servants, organizers, advocates, and civic institutions play in building community power? How can Arab Americans strengthen representation and ensure that their voices are heard in the public decisions that affect their communities?

Moderator:

Ryan Suto, Senior Manager of Government Affairs at FairVote

Panelists:

Abbas Alawieh, Candidate Michigan Senate, Co-Founder Uncommitted National Movement

Layla Elabed, Arab American Organizer and Co-Founder Uncommitted National Movement

Jude Hussein, Civic Leader, Candidate for Philadelphia City Council

Anas Shallal, Activist, CEO Bus Boys and Poets

Bios of Speakers Here

10:30 am – 10:45 am

Cultural Performance:

Nibal Malshi, Arab American Vocalist

10:45 am – 11:30 am

PANEL: Women Leading the Way: The Voices Transforming Our Community

What can we learn from the women shaping our future? Arab American women continue to redefine leadership across business, education, healthcare, public service, philanthropy, and the arts. This inspiring conversation explores resilience, mentorship, breaking barriers, and empowering the next generation.

Moderator:

Mona Zugbhi, Emmy Award Winning News Producer

Panelists:

Sahar Khamis, Professor of Communication and Women’s Studies, University of Maryland

Lana Abu-Gharbieh, Mrs. Arab USA 2026

Rana el Kaliouby, Egyptian American Computer Scientist, Co-Founder and CEO Affectiva

Sophia Agag, Algerian American Community Advocate and Public Servant

Bios of Speakers Here

11:30 am – 11:45 am

Recognition of State Team Leaders and Representatives

Moderator: Dr. Amal David, Co-Founder Arab America Foundation

11:45 pm – 12:30 pm

EVENT: Rising Leaders Recognition

Join our Zeffa celebration as we honor the Rising Leaders of 2026! This unique initiative aims to highlight the outstanding talents and valuable contributions of Arab Americans in three distinct age groups: 40 Under 40, 30 Under 30, and 20 Under 20. These exceptional individuals represent the rising leaders of our community, and we take immense pride in acknowledging their unwavering dedication and hard work. Close to 600 Arab Americans have been recognized since 2020.

Moderator:

Nabeleh Ghareeb, Rising Leaders Co-Coordinator, Michigan Team Leader

Bios of Speakers Here

12:30 pm – 1:30 pm

EVENT: Sahtein Networking Lunch

Join us for the Sahtein Networking Lunch, a unique opportunity to connect with Arab American attendees from across the United States. This midday gathering offers a welcoming space to share ideas, build relationships, and strengthen professional and personal networks. Over a delicious meal, participants will engage in meaningful conversations that celebrate community, culture, and collaboration. Whether you are meeting new colleagues or reconnecting with familiar faces, the Sahtein Networking Lunch is a highlight of the CONNECT Empowerment Summit experience.

Saturday Afternoon Session:

1:30 pm – 3:30 pm

CONNECT Arab America Empowerment Summit

Connecting and empowering Arab Americans nationwide with presentations by community leaders, influential women, rising leaders, and awesome performers.

1:30 pm – 2:15 pm

PANEL: From Silence to Strength: Mental Health in the Arab American Community

Mental health is increasingly part of the conversation in Arab American homes, workplaces, schools, and communities—but stigma, cultural expectations, and access to care remain significant challenges. This panel explores how we can move from silence to openness, strengthen emotional well-being across generations, support young people and families, and create a culture where seeking help is understood as a sign of strength rather than weakness.

Moderator: Micheline Maalouf, Influencer, Mental Health Counselor, and Educator, Serein Counseling

Panelists:

Shatha Atiya, Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Mahmoud Khedr, Egyptian American Innovator, Healer, and Suicide-Attempt Survivor

Adel Korkor, Influencer, Physician, Entrepreneur, Founder and CEO, AB Korkor Foundation for Mental Health

Bios of Speakers Here

2:15 pm – 2:30 pm

Culture Performance:

Karim Nagi, Egyptian Musician and Ethnic Dance Artist

A Rhythmic Trip Around The Arab World
Musician and educator Karim Nagi is back by popular demand. His upbeat and participatory performance uses drums & rhythms to convey the sonic diversity of the Arab world. From the creator of Detour Guide, and the TEDx Talk The Tambourine, my Partner in Diplomacy & Disruption, Karim helps us understand ourselves through music.

2:30 pm – 3:15 pm

PANEL: From Visibility to Influence: Taking the Arab American Narrative to the Next Level

Recent events in the Arab world have brought Arab American voices, perspectives, and experiences into the national conversation with new urgency. Political candidates, elected officials, journalists, advocates, and community leaders are increasingly shaping public discourse rather than simply reacting to it. This closing conversation will examine progress across politics, policy, media, and civic life—and explore how Arab Americans can sustain this momentum, strengthen their collective voice, broaden public understanding, and take the emerging narrative to the next level.

Moderator:

Abderrahim Foukara, Distinguished Fellow, Former Washington DC Bureau Chief, Al Jazeera

Panelists:

Tamara Kharroub, Executive Director, Arab Center Washington DC

Helen Hatab Samhan, Co-Founder and Former Executive Director, Arab American Institute

Shibley Telhami, Anwar Sadat Professor for Peace and Development, University of Maryland

Bios of Speakers Here

3:30-4:30 pm

Breakout Panel: Our Future: Building Tomorrow’s Arab American Leaders

Big Question: How do we prepare the next generation to lead? Leadership doesn’t happen by accident. Mentorship, opportunity, and service cultivate it. Hear from emerging leaders and accomplished mentors about developing confident, engaged, and visionary Arab Americans who will shape our future in business, public service, education, and community leadership.

Moderator:

Noura Ismail, Economic Development Specialist, Co-Team Leader, New York

Amr Abozaid, Director of Small Business Services, YAMA

George Qadado, Palestinian American Professional Cyclist

3:30 pm-4:15 pm

Event: Yalla Let’s Baladi

Instructor: Zizi Zabaneh, Acclaimed Middle Eastern Dance Instructor

4:30 pm

Summit Daytime Activities End

SATURDAY Evening, November 7:

5:30 pm – 11:00 pm

EVENT: Al Rabitah Gala Banquet

On Saturday, October 25, at 5:30 p.m., the CONNECT Empowerment Summit will host the Al Rabitah Gala, inspired by Al Rabitah Al Kalamieh, the literary society founded by Kahlil Gibran and his colleagues over a century ago to celebrate Arab identity and culture. Meaning “The Connection,” Al Rabitah symbolizes unity through art and expression. In this same spirit, the Gala will feature a sit-down dinner and an exhilarating evening of Arab pop and folk music with the incomparable Arab American Jordanian vocalist from Dallas, Texas, Tarek Haddad—a night filled with song, dance, and the spirited dabke.

Open and Introductions:

Sara Shouhayib Alawar, Master of Ceremonies, Emmy Award Winning Journalist

Performance:

Malikat Al Dabke Folkloric Dance Troupe

Remarks:

Warren David, Co-Founder, Arab America Foundation

Remarks:

Issam Andoni, Chairman, Arab America Foundation Board

Remarks:

Dr. James Zogby, Founder and President, Arab American Institute

Bios of Speakers Here

8:00 pm 

Dinner

8:45 pm

Tarek Haddad and Ensemble

11:00 pm

End of Saturday Evening Activities

Optional: Sunday, November 6:

9:00 am-11:00 am

EVENT: Yalla Connect! Farewell Networker

Join us for one last chance to connect and bid farewell to one another. This gathering allows us to come together once more, cherishing the memories we’ve created and celebrating the bonds we’ve formed. Yalla, let’s make the most of this moment and bid farewell with a promise to stay connected and meet again soon!

Westfields Marriott Lobby

11:00 am-4:00 pm

EVENT: Bus Tour of DC, Arab American Landmarks and Lunch

Sunday, October 26 • 11:00 AM–4:00 PM • $50 + fees*

Join the fun and excitement, including lunch at the Jerusalem Fund, and a stop at the Kahlil Gibran Memorial Garden. Take our bus tour of Washington, DC: Sunday, November 8, 2026, approximate time–11:00am-4 pm.

Meet and connect with like-minded Arab Americans who share pride in our heritage and identity.

Space is limited—sign up now!
Optional add-on: This is a separate ticket and not included with summit registration. Prices exclude processing fees.

Register HERE for this Event. (Scroll Down to Optional Event)

For Press Inquiries: Rita Yelda

ryelda@arabamerica.com

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