Reaffirming Arab Identity, Heritage, and Culture: Arab America Foundation Announces Performers at CONNECT Empowerment Summit, NY/NJ, Oct. 24–25, 2025

posted on: Sep 4, 2025

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(WASHINGTON, D.C., September 4, 2025) The Arab America Foundation is excited to announce that several notable artists will perform at 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. Through these performances, the Summit will reaffirm Arab American identity, heritage, and culture while celebrating community and empowerment.

Friday Evening, October 24, 2025

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.

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Saturday Evening, October 25, 2025

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.

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

REGISTER HERE!

Featured Performers for Both Events:

Maysoon Zayid

Maysoon Zayid is an actress, comedian, writer, and disability advocate who has broken barriers in entertainment and public life. A proud Palestinian American, she is best known for her sharp wit, fearless humor, and pioneering role as one of America’s first Muslim female comedians. She is also the author of the New York Times bestselling memoir Find Another Dream, which chronicles her journey with cerebral palsy and her path to success. Zayid co-founded the New York Arab-American Comedy Festival, delivered a widely acclaimed TED Talk, and continues to inspire audiences worldwide through performance, activism, and storytelling.

Yousef Shamoun

Yousef Shamoun is an acclaimed Syrian vocalist celebrated for his mastery of Tarab, the classical Arab musical tradition. Born in Aleppo, the historic center of Arab music, he trained under renowned musicians and quickly earned recognition for his powerful voice and emotive performances. Youssef has performed on prestigious stages across the Middle East, Europe, and the United States, preserving and promoting Arab musical heritage for new generations. Deeply connected to his cultural roots, he is committed to sharing the beauty and richness of Arab music with global audiences.

Nibal Malshi

Nibal Malshi is an extraordinary Palestinian artist born in the vibrant city of Haifa. Since age five, Nibal has enchanted audiences worldwide, drawing inspiration from revered Arab artists and gracing prestigious stages across her homeland, Europe, and the USA, including the renowned Institute de Monte Arab in Paris. A proud Academy of Music and Dance graduate in Jerusalem, Nibal’s artistry knows no bounds. From captivating dance workshops in Ramallah to inspiring collaborations in Germany to numerous concert performances in the U.S., she spreads harmony and unity through her music. Join Nibal and her Arab music ensemble for an unforgettable performance that will resonate deeply with you.

Marwa Morgan

Marwa Morgan is a renowned Egyptian vocalist known for her mesmerizing performances of classic Arabic music. She began singing at the age of 12 and has since performed on prestigious stages, including Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center, compelling audiences with her rich, powerful voice. Growing up in Cairo, Egyptian musical icons, including Umm Kulthum, heavily influenced Marwa’s musical style. Morgan brings the soul of Arabic music to life with her evocative interpretations.

Firas Zreik

Firas Zreik is a Palestinian-born, New York–based artist, composer, lyricist, and educator who has revolutionized the role of the kanun on the global stage. Blending the Arab maqam tradition with contemporary styles, his music is both authentic and innovative, marked by nuanced microtonal expression. Since 2013, he has toured internationally and collaborated with renowned artists including Roger Waters, Simon Shaheen, Residente, and his mother, celebrated vocalist Amal Murkus. A Berklee College of Music graduate, Zreik has performed at Lincoln Center, Boston Symphony Hall, WOMEX, and the Carthage International Festival, while also mentoring emerging musicians worldwide.

Karim Jaber

Karim Jaber is a Lebanese pop vocalist, songwriter, and composer whose powerful voice and dynamic performances have made him a beloved entertainer across the Arab world and beyond. He rose to prominence as the Golden Medal winner of Studio El Fan 2002 (LBCI) and has since built a career performing at weddings, engagements, festivals, and significant cultural events. Now based in Orlando, Florida, Karim continues to captivate audiences with his hit songs, including “El Bint El Lebnaneye,” “Bnayya Flastiniya,” and “Metl El Malak.” His artistry seamlessly blends passion, tradition, and modern pop flair, making him a standout talent in Arab music.

Abe Diab

Abraham Diab, a proud Arab American musician from Detroit, Michigan, has been immersed in music since childhood, beginning at age 7. Taught the Arab organ at the age of 13 by his late father and teacher, Abdallah Abbas, Diab was inspired to pursue a lifelong passion for music. Over the years, he has performed with local Arab ensembles at weddings, parties, and cultural gatherings, mastering both the Arab accordion and percussion—where he boasts over 40 years of experience—as well as the keyboard for more than 30 years. Since the inception of the CONNECT Empowerment Summit, Diab has enlivened the program with musical interludes between panels, creating a spirited atmosphere that bridges community and culture. This year, he will also join Karim Jaber on stage at the Al Rabitah Gala, adding his unique artistry to an unforgettable evening.

Cinderella Ksebati

Cinderella Ksebati is a vocalist, educator, and creator dedicated to accessibility, diversity, and high-level vocal training. She leads an auditioned, year-long College Prep program for high school singers and works with a team of instructors. Her channel, “Sing with Cinderella,” has reached over 10 million YouTube viewers. A vocal coach with Detroit Opera and national screener for programs like the Songbook Academy, she has also performed as a soloist internationally. Creator of Ace the Audition and The Practice, Progress, Perform Journal, Cinderella is a NATS National Finalist, George Shirley Competition First Prize, and an Arab America Foundation 30 Under 30 honoree, class of 2025. She holds Bachelor’s degrees in Voice and Music Education and a Master’s in Voice from the University of Michigan.

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The CONNECT Empowerment Summit offers a unique opportunity to engage with a vibrant community of visionary leaders, influential speakers, and like-minded individuals.

This dynamic two-day gathering brings together Arab Americans from across the nation for powerful sessions on networking, leadership, and celebration. Attendees will connect with trailblazing changemakers and emerging youth voices while exploring topics such as entrepreneurship, women’s empowerment, public service, youth leadership, and the richness of Arab heritage and identity.

In 2024, we welcomed over 400 attendees from 26 states—2025 will be even bigger. Don’t miss your chance to join this growing national movement!

The Arab American Foundation (AAF) is a nonprofit (501 (c) (3)) educational and cultural organization. Its mission is to promote Arab heritage, empower and educate others about Arab identity, connect Arab Americans, and build coalitions with diverse organizations across the U.S.

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For press inquiries: Claire Boyle: cboyle@arabamerica.com

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