Arab America Foundation Announces Program for the CONNECT Empowerment Summit 2025

posted on: Sep 17, 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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(WASHINGTON, D.C., September 17, 2025) The Arab America Foundation is excited to announce the program for the CONNECT Empowerment Summit to be held on Friday, October 24, and Saturday, October 25, 2025, at the Teaneck Marriott at Glenpointe, 100 Frank W. Burr Boulevard, Teaneck, NJ.

The two-day summit brings together leaders, professionals, and students for engaging panels, skill-building workshops, and networking opportunities. Attendees will explore culture, identity, civic engagement, entrepreneurship, media, and careers. The program features over 40 speakers and performers, as well as the Rising Leaders recognition. Guests will enjoy cultural performances and gatherings. Exhibitors, partners, and sponsors will showcase opportunities. Join us to connect, learn, and be empowered.

Teaneck Marriott at Glenpointe Hotel

Venue: Teaneck Marriott at Glenpointe, 100 Frank W Burr Boulevard, Teaneck, NJ 07666

Whova Summit App

We’re using the Whova app this year to help everyone stay connected throughout the summit. You can use it to check the agenda, see who’s attending, and even message other participants directly. If you haven’t already, download the app by scanning the QR code and entering the event code AAFSummit2025. People are already introducing themselves in community chats, setting up meetups, and making professional connections- so don’t miss out. It’s a great way to make the most of your time here and keep those connections going even after the summit ends.

CONNECT Empowerment Summit Program

Friday Afternoon, October 24:

CONNECT Empowerment Summit

12:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Registration and Information

Exhibits Open

Friday Afternoon, October 24, 2025

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

Friday Panel: Roots in the Diaspora: Preserving Arab Identity Across Generations

How do Arab Americans pass down language, tradition, and values in an environment that pushes assimilation? This panel brings together educators, artists, and youth advocates to explore how identity is maintained—and how it evolves.

Moderator:

Omar Kurdi, President, Arab Americans of Cleveland, 40 Under 40, Class of 2020

Panelists

George Abud, Arab American Actor, Playwright, and Musician

Aymann Ismail, Podcast Host and Producer at Slate Magazine, Author of “Becoming Baba.”

Samer Khalaf, Community Activist, Attorney, Former President ADC

Heather Raffo, Iraqi American Award-Winning Playwright and Actress

Bios of Speakers Here

2:15 pm – 2:30 pm

Know Your Rights

Moderator:

Ameera David, Emmy Award Winning Journalist

Panelist:

Bassel Abdallah, Immigration Attorney

2:30 pm – 3:15 pm

PANEL: A Dialogue on Entrepreneurship and Business Leadership

An insightful panel discussion featuring entrepreneurs and business leaders who will explore key strategies for innovation, growth, and leadership in today’s competitive market.

Moderator: Mony Loutfi , Former NY Co-Team Leader

Panelists:

Abe Ayesh, Entrepreneur and Business Leader

Maha Elashri, Entrepreneur and Health Care Marketing Executive

Youssef Mubarez, CEO, ATM World Corp, Founder MoKafe

Summer Sharaf, CEO and Co-Founder, Novellis Health

Bios of Speakers Here

3:15 pm – 4:00 pm

PANEL: Reinventing Arab Careers: Thriving Together in a Changing World

As industries transform and global shifts bring new challenges — from automation to widespread layoffs — the ability to reinvent ourselves has never been more vital. In this engaging session, Noura Ismail sits down with acclaimed author and career reinvention expert Mustafa Ammar to explore how Arab professionals can adapt with confidence, build “Career Intelligence,” and turn uncertainty into opportunity. The conversation will be followed by an interactive professional networking experience, where participants connect by sector to exchange ideas, mentorship, and collaboration. Together, we’ll celebrate Arab talent, strengthen unity, and shape a shared future of growth and possibility.

Moderators:

Noura Ismail, Economic Development Specialist, Co-Team Leader, NY

Bios of Speakers Here

4:15 pm

Aftenoon Activities End

Friday Evening, October 24, 2025

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

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

PERFORMANCE: Fann Wa Tarab: Bridging Generations Through Humor and Song

On Friday, October 24, a reception will take place at 6:00 pm, followed by the program at 8:00 pm. The CONNECT Empowerment Summit will present Fann Wa Tarab, its signature cultural showcase.

This year’s program opens with the brilliant actress, comedian, and author, Maysoon Zayid, who will bring her unique brand of humor to set the stage for an evening of pride, laughter, and celebration.

The program then highlights three beloved genres of Arab classical and folk music: Arab Classical, featuring vocalist Marwa Morgan; Arab Pop, with vocalist Nibal Malshi; and the timeless Qudud Halabiya, performed by vocalist Yousef Shamoun.

Reimagining the golden age of Arab music for today’s stage, the performance is led by renowned New York–based artist, composer, and qanunist Firas Zreik and his dynamic Arab takht (ensemble). Together, they will take audiences on a soul-stirring journey across the Arab world.

The concert pays tribute to legendary icons: Umm Kulthum, whose legacy we honor 50 years after her passing; the beloved Fairuz and the Rahbani era, celebrated in the wake of the recent loss of composer Ziad Rahbani; and the evocative Qudud Halabiya tradition, immortalized by Sabah Fakhri.

With lush instrumentation, fresh interpretations, and the infusion of humor, Fann Wa Tarab bridges generations—connecting memory, melody, and cultural pride in an unforgettable night of Arab performance.

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

10:00 pm

EVENT: Post-Concert “After-Party” for Young Professionals following the Fann Wa Tarab Cultural Event. Organized by Arab Socials.

Organizer: Arab Socials

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SATURDAY Morning Session

CONNECT Arab America: Empowerment Summit

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

André Sayegh, Mayor of Paterson, New Jersey

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

9:45 am – 10:30 am

PANEL: From the Community to the Capitol: Arab Americans in Public Service

Public service is a powerful form of advocacy. Arab Americans in elected office, community organizing, and diplomacy will share their journeys—what drives them, the systemic challenges they face, and how they’re building trust and power.

Moderator:

Maya Berry, Executive Director, Arab American Institute

To Be Announced

Panelists:

Mike Khader, Former President, Yonkers City Council

Mohamed Khairullah, Mayor Prospect Park, NJ

Nader Sayegh, New York State Assemblyman, 90th District

Bios of Speakers Here

10:30 am – 10:45 am

Cultural Performance:

Nibal Malshi, Arab American Vocalist

10:45 am – 11:30 am

PANEL: Voices of Power: Arab American Women Leading Change

Arab American women are rewriting the narrative—from City Hall to Hollywood. This panel highlights trailblazers who lead movements, build institutions, and inspire the next generation, all while navigating the intersection of gender, culture, and representation.

Moderator:

Rania Batrice, Batrice and Associates

Panelists:

Rana Abdelhamid, Founder of Hijabs of NY, Women’s Initiative for Self-Empowerment

Lina Abirafeh, Feminist, Activist, and Author

Debbie Almontaser, Educator, Entrepreneur, Speaker, and Author

Nouhayla Errahili, Miss Arab USA 2025

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 2025! 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. Over 500 Arab Americans have been recognized since 2020.

Moderator:

Sandy Zaky Saffarini, New Jersey Co-Team Leader

Eynas Jarrar, New England, Co-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.

1:30 pm – 3:30 pm

Saturday Afternoon Session:

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: Bridging Wounds: Responding to Crises in the Middle East and U.S.

With trauma flowing from both ancestral homelands and daily life in the U.S., this panel explores how Arab Americans process pain and transform it into purpose. Speakers will discuss mental health, grief, organizing across divides, and building resilience in hard times.

Moderator: Stefan Ateek, Texas State Team Leader

Panelists:

Shatha Atiya, Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Marwa Janini, CEO of the Arab American Association, New York

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

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

Bios of Speakers Here

2:15 pm – 2:30 pm

Culture Performance:

Karim Nagi, Egyptian Musician and Ethnic Dance Artist

The Rhythm of Our Culture: A live demonstration on how Karim Nagi has used music to educate Americans and promote the diversity of the Arab world.

2:30 pm – 3:15 pm

PANEL: Unmuting Our Stories: Arab Americans in Media and the Battle for Visibility

Who gets to tell our stories? In an age of censorship and misrepresentation, Arab American journalists, creators, and influencers are pushing back. This panel explores strategies to amplify our voices across platforms and reclaim the narrative.

Moderator:

Mona Zughbi, Emmy Award Winning News Producer

Panelists:

Munir Atallla, Head of Production and Acquisitions, Watermelon Pictures

Khalil Jahshan, Executive Director, The Arab Center, Washington DC

Abe Kasbo, Founder and CEO, Verasoni Worldwide, Executive Producer “A Thousand and One Journeys”

Dean Obeidallah, Writer, Comedian, and Host of Sirius Radio’s Dean Obeidallah Show

Bios of Speakers Here

Summit Daytime Activities End

Optional:

3:30-4:30 pm

Breakout: Yemeni Community Meeting

Members of the Yemeni community gather to address the pressing challenges they face and explore ways to strengthen unity. The discussion will focus on critical issues affecting their local and global communities, emphasizing the importance of fostering collaboration and collective action to work toward common goals and build a stronger, more cohesive community.

Moderator:

Thekra El-Rowmein, Director of Family Youth, YAMA

Amr Abozaid, Director of Small Business Services, YAMA

3:30 pm-4:00 pm

Event: Yalla Let’s Baladi

Instructor: Zizi Zabaneh, Acclaimed Middle Eastern Dance Instructor

SATURDAY Evening, October 25:

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, a distinguished guest speaker (to be announced), and an exhilarating evening of Arab pop and folk music with the incomparable Arab American Lebanese vocalist from Orlando, Florida, Karim Jaber—a night filled with song, dance, and the spirited dabke.

Open and Introductions:

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

Performance:

Afrah Folkloric Dance Troupe

Remarks:

Warren David, Co-Founder, Arab America Foundation

Welcoming Remarks:

André Sayegh, Mayor, Paterson, New Jersey

Presentation: MVP Award 2025

Maher Abdelqader, MVP Awardee 2025

Performance:

Cinderella Ksebati, Arab American Vocalist and Educator

Remarks:

Issam Andoni, Chairman, Arab America Foundation Board

Remarks:

Linda Mansour, Vice Chairman, Arab America Foundation Board

Omar Kurdi, Community Advocate

Bios of Speakers Here

8:00 pm 

Dinner

8:45 pm 

Knafeh Fest!

8:45 pm

Karim Jaber and Ensemble

11:00 pm

End of Saturday Evening Activities

Optional: Sunday, October 26:

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!

Teaneck Marriott Lobby

11:00 am-4:00 pm

EVENT: Bus Tour of South Paterson Arab American Community and Vicinity

Optional Event: South Paterson Arab American Community Tour

Sunday, October 26 • 11:00 AM–4:00 PM • $40 + fees*

Join the fun—and lunch is included! This guided bus tour explores Paterson and nearby highlights:

• Little Palestine landmark on Palestine Way
• A walk along storefronts, bakeries, and grocers—flavors, sweets, spices, and traditional goods
• Visit the Palestine American Cultural Center (PACC) for local history, resilience, and advocacy
• Time to shop for pastries, spices, and handicrafts
• Bonus viewpoint: Manhattan skyline from Jersey City

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: Claire Boyle

cboyle@arabamerica.com

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For more information about the Arab American Foundation, please visit their website.

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