RECAP: CONNECT Arab America Empowerment Summit 2025 Welcomes Over 428 Guests from 21 States on October 24-25, Building Arab American Unity and Strength

posted on: Oct 29, 2025

The 2025 Arab America Empowerment Summit, held this past weekend at the Teaneck Marriott at Glenpointe in New Jersey, brought together hundreds of Arab Americans from across the country and abroad for a powerful weekend of dialogue, culture, and community.

The two-day event, organized by the Arab America Foundation, reflected the organization’s mission to unite and empower Arab Americans while celebrating their shared heritage and contributions to American society.

Friday opened with Emmy Award–winning journalist Blanche Shaheen as master of ceremonies and welcoming remarks from Warren David, President of Arab America and Co-Founder of the Arab America Foundation. The afternoon featured a series of thought-provoking panels on topics such as Preserving Arab Identity Across Generations, Knowing Your Rights, Entrepreneurship and Business Leadership, and Career Reinvention.

The evening’s Fann Wa Tarab concert, hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Ameera David, was a signature cultural highlight, featuring qanun player Firas Zreik alongside vocalists Marwa Morgan, Yousef Shamoun, and Nibal Malshi. Together, they paid tribute to the golden era of Arab music, performing selections inspired by icons like Umm Kulthum, Fairouz, and Sabah Fakhri. The program also included an opening comedy act by Maysoon Zayid, filling the room with laughter.

Saturday’s events began with the traditional Man’oushe, Foul & Qahwa breakfast. Saturday’s events were hosted by Emmy Award–winning journalist Sara Shouhayib, followed by a full day of panels exploring topics such as Arab Americans in Public Service, Women Leading Change, Responding to Crises in the Middle East and the U.S., and Arab Americans in Media.

Midday, the Rising Leaders Recognition honored 25 exceptional Arab Americans who are Rising Leaders from 40 Under 40, 30 Under 30, and 20 Under 20—representing the future of Arab American achievement. Since 2020, this initiative has recognized over 500 leaders across diverse professions who embody innovation, integrity, and community spirit.

The Saturday afternoon sessions continued the momentum with robust discussions on Bridging Wounds: Responding to Crises in the Middle East and the U.S. and Unmuting Our Stories: Arab Americans in Media and the Battle for Visibility. These panels tackled timely issues—from mental health and resilience to representation and the struggle for authentic Arab narratives in American media. A special cultural demonstration by Karim Nagi, The Rhythm of Our Culture, energized attendees through music and dance that celebrated the vibrancy of Arab heritage.

The summit concluded Saturday evening with the Al Rabitah Gala Banquet, a dazzling celebration of unity and culture. The Afrah Dabke Dance Troupe opened the night with vibrant energy, followed by the melodic performance of Arab American vocalist and educator, and 30 Under 30 Awardee, Cinderella Ksebati. The evening also featured the presentation of the 2025 MVP Award to NY/NJ community leader Maher Abdelqader, followed by a musical finale by Lebanese vocalist Karim Jaber and his ensemble.

“This year’s summit reminded us that our mission goes beyond celebration—it’s about connection,” said Warren David. “We bring Arab Americans together from every state, background, and profession to celebrate our shared identity and the strength of our unity. Year after year, we continue to build bridges across generations—empowering our youth, honoring our leaders, and ensuring that our community’s story is verbalized and preserved.

Compiled by Arab America

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