Seven Powerful Conversations, 20+ Events, One CONNECT Summit! Arab America Foundation Announces Exciting Program of Panels, Performances, and Cultural Celebrations

posted on: Oct 13, 2026

WASHINGTON, DC — October 14, 2026 — The Arab America Foundation is excited to announce an extraordinary weekend of inspiration, empowerment, and cultural celebration at its 2026 CONNECT Empowerment Summit, taking place November 6–8, 2026, at the Westfields Marriott Washington Dulles in Chantilly, Virginia, in the Washington, DC metropolitan area.

Featuring seven thought-provoking panel discussions, outstanding cultural performances, four signature meal gatherings, interactive workshops, the Rising Leaders Recognition Ceremony, and more than 20 events and activities, CONNECT promises an unforgettable weekend bringing together Arab Americans and friends from across the nation.

Under the theme CONNECT — Together We Rise, the summit will unite distinguished speakers, community leaders, entrepreneurs, educators, artists, professionals, and emerging voices to explore the issues shaping Arab American life while celebrating the heritage, traditions, and connections that bring the community together.

“CONNECT represents the very best of our community—our diversity, creativity, leadership, and shared commitment to the future,” said Warren David, President of Arab America and Co-Founder of the Arab America Foundation. “Through meaningful conversations, cultural celebrations, and opportunities to connect, we are strengthening our identity, building relationships, and empowering the next generation of Arab Americans.”

Seven Powerful Conversations That Matter

At the heart of CONNECT are seven dynamic panel discussions addressing some of the most important opportunities and challenges facing Arab Americans today.

1. We Are All Educators: Changing Hearts, Changing Minds, One Conversation at a Time

Friday, November 6 | 1:30–2:15 PM

How can everyday interactions challenge stereotypes and strengthen understanding? Educators, artists, and community advocates will explore how Arab Americans can share their heritage, celebrate their identity, and build bridges through conversations in classrooms, workplaces, neighborhoods, and beyond.

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

Friday, November 6 | 2:30–3:15 PM

From coffee shops and bakeries to innovative food businesses, Arab American entrepreneurs are bringing their culinary traditions to mainstream America. This conversation explores how food, entrepreneurship, and cultural authenticity are creating opportunities, building businesses, and increasing cultural visibility.

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

Saturday, November 7 | 9:45–10:30 AM

Arab Americans are participating in public life as elected officials, candidates, organizers, advocates, and community leaders. This panel examines civic engagement, representation, public service, and the importance of building lasting community influence.

4. Women Leading the Way: The Voices Transforming Our Community

Saturday, November 7 | 10:45–11:30 AM

Across business, education, technology, public service, and the arts, Arab American women are redefining leadership. This inspiring discussion will explore resilience, mentorship, breaking barriers, and creating opportunities for future generations.

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

Saturday, November 7 | 1:30–2:15 PM

Mental health is becoming an increasingly important conversation for Arab American families and communities. Panelists will address cultural stigma, emotional well-being, access to support, and ways to encourage openness and understanding across generations.

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

Saturday, November 7 | 2:30–3:15 PM

As Arab American voices gain greater visibility in public discourse, how can the community sustain its momentum? Leaders in policy, media, and civic engagement will examine the progress made and opportunities ahead for strengthening Arab American perspectives, representation, and influence.

7. Our Future: Building Tomorrow’s Arab American Leaders

Saturday, November 7 | 3:30–4:30 PM

The future of the Arab American community depends on developing the next generation of leaders. This conversation will explore mentorship, opportunity, service, and the skills needed to prepare emerging leaders to make a difference in business, education, public service, and community life.

Saturday Morning: Rising Leaders Recognition Ceremony — 11:45 AM

One of the summit’s most inspiring highlights will be the Rising Leaders Recognition Ceremony, taking place Saturday, November 7, at 11:45 AM.

The ceremony will honor outstanding Arab Americans selected for the Foundation’s 40 Under 40, 30 Under 30, and 20 Under 20 initiatives, recognizing their achievements, leadership, and contributions across a wide range of professions and communities.

This special celebration will spotlight the next generation of Arab American leaders who are making a difference today and helping shape a brighter future for the community.

A Spectacular Celebration of Arab Music, Dance, and Cultural Heritage

Beyond the panel discussions, CONNECT will feature an exciting lineup of musical performances, traditional dance, and interactive cultural experiences celebrating the richness and diversity of Arab heritage.

Friday Evening: Fann Wa Tarab — Tarab Across Generations: The Songs That Raised Us

The summit’s opening evening will feature Fann Wa Tarab, a musical journey celebrating the timeless songs of Arab legends Umm Kulthum, Fairuz, Abdel Halim Hafez, and Wadih El Safi.

The performance will showcase the Arab America Ensemble, under the musical direction of acclaimed qanun artist Firas Zreik, featuring vocalists Mona Miari and Kareem Yousef. Together, they will bring beloved Arab classics to life, connecting generations through the enduring power of music.

The Friday evening cultural program will also feature Franco-Algerian singer-songwriter Nadir Benmansour, whose distinctive musical artistry reflects the cultural richness and contemporary creativity of the Arab world.

Saturday Daytime: Music, Rhythm, and Interactive Dance

Throughout Saturday, attendees will experience a variety of performances and workshops celebrating Arab musical and dance traditions.

• Nibal Malshi: A captivating vocalist whose performances celebrate the beauty, emotion, and enduring appeal of Arab music.
• Karim Nagi: The acclaimed Egyptian musician, dancer, and cultural educator will present A Rhythmic Trip Around the Arab World, taking audiences on an engaging exploration of Arab rhythm and musical traditions.
• Zizi Zababneh: The interactive Yalla Let’s Baladi workshop will invite participants to experience the joy, movement, and cultural expression of traditional Arab dance.

Saturday Evening: Al Rabitah Gala Banquet — A Night of Celebration

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

The summit’s signature Al Rabitah Gala Banquet will bring attendees together for an evening of entertainment, fellowship, and community pride.

The evening will feature vocalist Tarek Haddad and the exciting Al Malikat Al Dabke Folkloric Dance Troupe, celebrating the energy, beauty, and traditions of Arab folkloric dance.

Guests will enjoy a festive evening of music, dancing, and connections with Arab Americans from across the country.

Four Signature Meals — Celebrating Arab Hospitality and Connection

Food and hospitality are central to Arab culture, and CONNECT will feature four special meal gatherings that provide opportunities for networking, conversation, and fellowship.

Friday Evening — Ahlan wa Sahlan Dinner/Reception

A warm welcome to CONNECT, bringing together attendees from across the country for an evening of Arab hospitality, friendship, and connection.

Saturday Morning — Man’oushe, Foul, and Qahwa Networking Breakfast

Begin the day with traditional Arab breakfast favorites while reconnecting with old friends, meeting new colleagues, and preparing for a day of inspiration.

Saturday Midday — Sahtein Lunch

Enjoy a delicious lunch and meaningful conversations between the day’s panels, workshops, and cultural activities.

Saturday Evening — Al Rabitah Gala Banquet

A festive evening of dining, entertainment, and celebration of Arab American achievement and community pride.

Sunday: Yalla Connect! Farewell Networker, Washington, DC Tour, and Lunch

The CONNECT experience continues on Sunday, November 8, with the Yalla Connect! Farewell Networker, offering attendees a final opportunity to reconnect, exchange ideas, and strengthen relationships developed throughout the weekend.

Participants will also have the opportunity to enjoy a bus tour of Washington, DC, highlighting Arab American landmarks, followed by lunch.

The Sunday activities provide a memorable conclusion to a weekend dedicated to heritage, identity, empowerment, and community.

More Than 20 Events, 40 Speakers and Performers and Activities — Something for Everyone

With more than 20 events and activities throughout the weekend, CONNECT offers a unique opportunity to experience the breadth and diversity of Arab American culture, leadership, and community life.

From compelling panel discussions and inspiring speakers to cultural performances, interactive workshops, networking gatherings, signature meals, the Rising Leaders Recognition Ceremony, and special Sunday activities, the summit offers something for every generation.

Whether you’re a student, professional, entrepreneur, educator, artist, or community leader, CONNECT is an opportunity to learn, celebrate, build lasting relationships, and help shape the future of Arab America.

Special Hotel Rate — Reservation Deadline Fast Approaching!

Attendees can take advantage of a special $149 per night hotel room rate at the Westfields Marriott Washington Dulles, the summit’s host hotel in Chantilly, Virginia.

Hotel Registration Here

The hotel reservation cutoff is fast approaching! Participants are encouraged to reserve their accommodations promptly to secure the special summit rate, subject to availability.

Register Today — CONNECT: Together We Rise!

Rita Yelda, Yelda Media: ryelda@arabamerica.com

Join Arab Americans and friends from across the nation for an unforgettable weekend of inspiration, culture, leadership, music, food, and fellowship.

2026 CONNECT Empowerment Summit

Dates: November 6–8, 2026
Location: Westfields Marriott Washington Dulles
14750 Conference Center Drive
Chantilly, Virginia — Washington, DC Area

Register: HERE

Sponsor: HERE

Exhibit: HERE

Speaker Bios: Here

Schedule: HERE

Information: www.arabamericafoundation.org
Phone: 877-272-2944

CONNECT — Together We Rise!

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About the Arab America Foundation

The Arab America Foundation is a nonprofit educational and cultural organization dedicated to promoting Arab heritage, educating Americans about Arab identity, and connecting and empowering Arab Americans. Through national initiatives, leadership programs, cultural celebrations, and community engagement, the Foundation strengthens Arab American identity and builds bridges of understanding throughout the United States.

For Media Inquiries:

Rita Yelda, Yelda Media: ryelda@arabamerica.com

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