Connect Empowerment Summit Speakers
We’re excited to announce that an inspiring lineup of speakers will be revealed soon for the upcoming CONNECT Empowerment Summit! From trailblazing leaders to dynamic changemakers, our speakers represent the diverse voices shaping the future of the Arab American community.
Stay tuned as we unveil individuals who are making an impact in public service, business, media, education, and beyond. You won’t want to miss the powerful insights and conversations they’ll bring to this year’s summit.
Rana Abdelhamid
Rana Abdelhamid is an Arab American community organizer, social entrepreneur, and advocate for women’s empowerment. Born and raised in Queens, New York, to Egyptian immigrant parents, she founded Malikah, a global grassroots organization that equips women with self-defense, financial literacy, and leadership skills. Inspired by her own experience surviving a hate-based attack as a teenager, Rana has dedicated her career to building safe and inclusive spaces for marginalized communities. A Truman Scholar and Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, she holds a Master’s in Public Policy from Harvard Kennedy School and continues to champion equity, safety, and opportunity for Arab Americans.
Lina Abirafeh
Lina AbiRafeh, PhD, is an Arab‑American feminist activist, author, scholar, and humanitarian aid specialist with nearly three decades of global experience. She served as Executive Director—and now Senior Advisor—at the Arab Institute for Women at the Lebanese American University, advocating for gender equality across the Arab region. Lina has worked extensively on gender-based violence prevention and policy in humanitarian settings, including Afghanistan, Haiti, the DRC, and Nepal. A published author of three books—including a critical study of Western aid in Afghanistan—she is recognized among the Gender Equality Top 100 (2018, 2019) and a Vital Voices fellow.
George Abud
George Abud, born in Detroit, is a Lebanese‑American actor, musician, playwright, and stage director celebrated for his standout versatility on Broadway and beyond. A Wayne State University BFA graduate, he moved to New York in 2012 to pursue a career in theater. He quickly made his mark, originating roles such as Camal in The Band’s Visit and Filippo Marinetti in Lempicka, earning critical praise and a Daytime Emmy Award for a performance on The Today Show. He also portrayed “Nerd Face” in Emojiland, earning a Drama Desk nomination. Known for his expressive musicality—rooted in Arabic violin and oud traditions—George continues shaping the stage as a consummate entertainer and creative voice.
Debbie Almonteser
Debbie Almontaser is a Yemeni-American educator, interfaith leader, and advocate for Muslim and immigrant communities. She is the founding principal of the Khalil Gibran International Academy in Brooklyn, the first Arabic dual-language public school in the United States. A sought-after speaker on cultural diversity, civic engagement, and combating Islamophobia, she serves as CEO of Bridging Cultures Group, Inc., and co-founder of the Muslim Community Network. Recognized for her bridge-building leadership, Debbie has received numerous awards and authored Leading While Muslim. Her lifelong work empowers marginalized voices and fosters understanding across communities in New York City and beyond.
Issam Andoni
Issam Andoni is a technologist, entrepreneur, and founder of Zeva Holding Group, which owns and operates multiple technology companies. As Chairman of the Andoni Family Foundation, he is dedicated to advancing technology and innovation in Palestine, fostering opportunities for growth and empowerment. With a strong commitment to community engagement, Mr. Andoni actively supports initiatives that strengthen Arab American identity, leadership, and connection. His work bridges business success with social impact, reflecting a vision that combines entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and cultural pride. At the CONNECT Arab America Empowerment Summit, he shares his passion for empowering future generations through technology and community building.
Munir Atalla
Munir Atalla is the Head of Production & Acquisitions at Watermelon Pictures, where he leads efforts to develop and distribute impactful stories for global audiences. Previously, he worked at Netflix, overseeing creative writing strategy across growing and emerging markets. With a passion for amplifying underrepresented voices, Atalla brings a unique perspective to storytelling, blending industry expertise with a commitment to cultural authenticity. His work reflects a dedication to bridging diverse narratives with mainstream media, ensuring that stories from marginalized communities reach and resonate with a global audience. Atalla continues to shape the future of film and media through innovation, leadership, and vision.
Stefan Ateek
Stefan Ateek is a Professor of Social Work at Collins College with over 30 years of experience developing specialized programs in criminal justice. Born in Nazareth, he frequently returns to maintain close family and professional ties. Ateek serves as the Arab America Foundation Team Texas Leader and was named AAF MVP in 2024. He is also a Nazareth Hospital Ambassador in the U.S. and actively supports organizations including Health Outreach to the Middle East, Arab American Friends of Nazareth, and the Mariam Foundation. His many honors include the Christ-Like Award, the Trailblazer Award, and recognition from the Texas Senate.
Rush Darwish
Rush Darwish is a dedicated community organizer with over 15 years of experience in humanitarian work, media, business, and civic engagement. He founded a Chamber of Commerce for the Middle Eastern and North African retail community, as well as a Small Business Development Center, to empower women and marginalized communities. He also launched the Refugee Life Foundation, a charity team that supports refugees both globally and locally. Rush owns a media production company that creates impactful content for non-profits and civic leaders. He is a devoted husband to Aziza and father to their two sons, Amir and Adam.
Ameera David
Ameera David is an Emmy Award-winning journalist and former anchor at Sinclair Media in Washington, DC and WXYZ-TV in Detroit. Ameera’s work highlights pressing issues in politics, international affairs, and the economy, earning her recognition for thoughtful and impactful storytelling. A proud Arab American, she is dedicated to amplifying diverse voices and fostering greater understanding through journalism. At the CONNECT Arab America Empowerment Summit, she brings her expertise, passion, and commitment to community empowerment.
Nouhayla Errahili
Nouhayla Errahili is a distinguished student-athlete, scholar, and advocate whose journey embodies resilience and excellence. Born in Morocco, she pursued athletics and academics with equal passion, ultimately earning six national Track & Field titles and All-American honors at Azusa Pacific University, where she also completed three degrees. Currently pursuing her MBA, Nouhayla mentors student-athletes and volunteers with organizations serving children, refugees, and underserved communities. Crowned Miss Arab USA in July 2025, she uses her platform to promote education, gender equality, and cultural understanding. Her story reflects the power of perseverance, service, and Arab heritage.
Aymann Ismail
Aymann Ismail is a staff writer at Slate, the author of Becoming Baba, and the president of AMEJA. He was formerly the staff video and photo editor at Animal New York. He grew up in Newark, NJ, received an art degree from Rutgers University, and was arrested by the NYPD for trespassing on the Williamsburg Bridge in 2016. In 2018, he received an ASME Next award. In 2021, his essay The Store That Called the Cops on George Floyd was nominated for a National Magazine Award in Reporting and won a Writers Guild Award. CNN, The New York Times, NPR, and GQ, among others, have featured his work. He still lives in Newark.
Noura Ismail
Noura Ismail has over a decade of experience as a specialist in economic mobility pathways for displaced populations. As the Global Program Director at Talent Beyond Boundaries, she oversees, in cooperation with the UN Refugee Agency operations spanning 14 countries, driving the expansion of skilled migration schemes for refugees. Previously, she led research on market-based social innovations at Ashoka’s Social Finance team and served as a Global Challenge Fellow at Oxford University where she designed refugee labor integration studies. Recognized as a Global Innovator for Expo 2020 Dubai and named among the 40 Under 40 by the Arab America Foundation, Noura is also completing her post-graduate studies at Columbia University. Her work is centered on dismantling barriers to labor pathways, championing systemic solutions, and creating economic opportunities that enable refugees to rebuild their lives.
Khalil Jahshan
Khalil E. Jahshan is a Palestinian-American political analyst, media commentator, and educator specializing in U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East and the Arab world. He currently serves as Executive Director of the Arab Center, Washington, DC, where he leads research and policy analysis on regional and domestic Arab American issues. Previously, he was Executive Director of the National Association of Arab Americans and held senior positions at the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee. A frequent commentator in U.S. and international media, Jahshan is recognized for his expertise on Arab politics, Palestinian rights, and U.S.–Arab relations, and for advocating informed, constructive policy engagement.
Marwa Janini
Marwa is a Palestinian-American Muslim and the CEO of the Arab American Association of New York (AAANY). She holds a Master’s in Middle Eastern Studies from The CUNY Graduate Center, with published work on the Palestinian diaspora in Latin America. Under her leadership, AAANY has expanded programs, opened new locations, and strengthened partnerships to combat anti-Asian, anti-Arab, anti-Palestinian, and Islamophobic rhetoric and violence. Recognized as #12 on City & State’s inaugural MENA 50 list, Marwa is a proud New Yorker with roots in Beit Hanina, Palestine, and Managua, Nicaragua, and the devoted mother of three daughters: Amelie, Liyana, and Celine.
Abe Kasbo
Abe Kasbo is a Syrian-American entrepreneur, filmmaker, and marketing strategist dedicated to elevating Arab American voices. He is the founder and CEO of Verasoni Worldwide, an integrated marketing and public relations firm serving diverse industries, and the creator of “A Thousand and One Journeys: The Arab Americans,” an award-winning documentary that chronicles the contributions of Arab Americans to U.S. history and culture. A sought-after public speaker, Kasbo is recognized for his expertise in storytelling, branding, and cross-cultural communication. Through his work, he champions inclusion, challenges stereotypes, and fosters understanding between communities. He continues to mentor and inspire emerging Arab American leaders nationwide.
Mike Khader
Mike Khader is an attorney, public servant, and former President of the Yonkers City Council, where he became the highest-ranking Arab American elected official in New York. A lifelong resident of Yonkers and the son of Jordanian immigrants, he has dedicated his career to advocating for working families, expanding opportunity, and strengthening civic engagement. As City Council President, Khader championed policies to improve education, public safety, and economic development while ensuring government remained accountable and inclusive. Proud of his Arab American heritage, he remains deeply committed to community service, mentoring young leaders, and fostering bridges across diverse communities.
Mohamed Khairullah
Mohamed Khairullah is a Syrian-American public servant and educator who has served as the Mayor of Prospect Park, New Jersey, since 2005, making him one of the longest-serving Muslim mayors in the United States. Born in Aleppo, Syria, he immigrated to the U.S. as a teenager and later earned a degree in education. In addition to his mayoral duties, Khairullah has worked as a public school teacher, focusing on civic engagement and youth empowerment. Known for his advocacy on refugee and immigrant issues, he has been a vocal champion of diversity, inclusion, and community resilience at the local and national levels.
Samer Khalaf
Samer Khalaf is an Arab American attorney, civil rights advocate, and former National President of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC). An expert in immigration, civil rights, and public policy, he has dedicated his career to protecting the rights and advancing the interests of Arab Americans across the nation. Under his leadership, ADC expanded its legal and advocacy efforts to combat discrimination, challenge harmful policies, and promote civic engagement. Khalaf is also active in community outreach and education, working to build bridges of understanding between diverse groups. His commitment to justice and equality has made him a respected voice in the Arab American community.
Mahmoud Khedr
Mahmoud Khedr is an Egyptian-American innovator, healer, and suicide-attempt survivor reimagining mental health through media, technology, and community. He co-founded FloraMind and Hidden Healers, through which he launched MTV’s Hidden Healers campaign, reaching over 10 million people, and co-created the $1M Hidden Healing Fund with Pinterest and Lululemon. Recognized on the Forbes 1000 list, he serves on the Board of Mental Health America and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Steering Committee. Mahmoud has worked at KPMG as an Innovation Manager and previously at Google, Meta, and the NYC Mayor’s Office of Innovation. He has spoken globally with governments, world leaders, and institutions, including the United Nations, Harvard, and Stanford.
Adel Korkor
Adel B. Korkor, M.D., is a physician, entrepreneur, inventor, and philanthropist. In 2017, he stepped down from his clinical practice to dedicate his time, energy, and resources to addressing the needs of patients suffering from mental illness by establishing the Adel B. Korkor Foundation. Through the foundation, he has championed initiatives to improve access, awareness, and education around mental health nationwide. Beyond his medical and philanthropic work, Dr. Korkor remains deeply engaged with the Arab American community, supporting programs that strengthen heritage and identity. His lifelong commitment reflects a passion for healing, empowerment, and service to others.
Omar Kurdi
Omar Kurdi is a nonprofit leader, writer, and community advocate dedicated to advancing Arab American identity and representation. He is the co-founder and president of Arab Americans of Cleveland, which focuses on leadership development, civic engagement, and cultural programming. Omar also serves as CEO of Friends for Life Rehabilitation Services, transforming it into a regional leader in disability services. He has served on multiple boards, including the ADAMHS Board of Cuyahoga County, and was recognized as a “40 Under 40” leader by Crain’s Cleveland Business and the Arab America Foundation. A published poet, his works explore faith, immigration, and identity.
Micheline Maalouf
Micheline Maalouf is an Arab American licensed mental health counselor, educator, and advocate for accessible, culturally competent mental health care. Based in Orlando, Florida, she is the founder of Serein Counseling, where she specializes in anxiety, trauma, and multicultural issues. Maalouf is widely recognized for her engaging social media presence, where she uses platforms like Instagram and TikTok to destigmatize therapy and provide mental health education to a global audience. Featured in major media outlets, she is committed to breaking barriers around mental health in Arab and immigrant communities. Her work empowers individuals to heal, grow, and embrace emotional well-being.
Youssef Mubarez
Youssef Mubarez is a Yemeni-American advocate, community organizer, and public affairs leader dedicated to advancing civil rights and amplifying the voices of marginalized communities, raised in New York City. He serves as the Public Affairs Manager for the Yemeni American Merchants Association (YAMA), where he leads initiatives to support small business owners, fight discriminatory policies, and promote civic engagement within the Yemeni and broader Arab American communities. He is also a board member of the Arab America Foundation. Mubarez is CEO of ATM World Corp and founder of MoKafe. Recognized for his leadership, Mubarez continues to mentor young activists, foster inter-community solidarity, and champion economic empowerment. He is committed to building a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
Dean Obeidallah
Dean Obeidallah is a Palestinian-Italian American comedian, writer, radio host, and political commentator known for using humor to challenge stereotypes and promote understanding. He hosts The Dean Obeidallah Show on SiriusXM Progress, where he provides progressive political analysis and amplifies the voices of underrepresented individuals. A former attorney turned entertainer, Obeidallah has appeared on major television networks, including CNN and MSNBC, and is a frequent contributor to publications such as The Daily Beast and CNN Opinion. He co-directed the award-winning documentary The Muslims Are Coming! and co-founded the New York Arab-American Comedy Festival, now in its second decade. Recognized for his wit and incisive commentary, Obeidallah addresses issues of civil rights, Islamophobia, and political engagement with audiences nationwide. Through comedy, media, and activism, he continues to break down cultural barriers and advocate for a more inclusive America that reflects its diversity and upholds democratic values.
Andre Sayegh
Andre Sayegh is the 50th mayor of Paterson, New Jersey, first elected in 2018 and re-elected in 2022. A proud Arab American of Lebanese and Syrian heritage, Sayegh has been a champion for the city’s diverse communities, working to revitalize Paterson through economic development, public safety, education, and infrastructure improvements. Before becoming mayor, he served for a decade on the Paterson City Council representing the 6th Ward. Deeply committed to the rights of Arab Americans and Palestinians, Sayegh has worked to ensure their history, contributions, and rights are recognized, celebrated, and protected. He has actively engaged with local and national organizations to combat discrimination, uplift Palestinian narratives, and foster cultural pride. Under his leadership, Paterson has embraced its multicultural identity, attracting investment while strengthening community ties. Sayegh’s vision is rooted in inclusion, equity, and opportunity for all residents, ensuring that Paterson’s diversity remains one of its greatest strengths.
Nader Sayegh
Nader J. Sayegh is a New York State Assemblyman proudly representing the 90th District, which includes much of Yonkers. Elected in 2018, he became the first Jordanian American and one of the first Arab Americans elected to the New York State Legislature. A lifelong educator, attorney, and civic leader, Assemblyman Sayegh has dedicated his career to public service, advocating for quality education, healthcare, and economic opportunity for working families. Deeply committed to his community, he actively supports initiatives that celebrate diversity and strengthen Arab American representation.
Mona Zughbi
She is a two-time Emmy Award-winning news producer with extensive experience in shaping international and national news coverage. She began her career at NBC Network News, where she advanced from Assignment Editor to Senior International News Editor and Producer, playing a key role in delivering impactful global reporting. She later served seven years as Bureau Chief for RT News in New York City, overseeing comprehensive coverage across the Northeast region. Today, she works as a media consultant, advising media organizations, and is the Founder and Executive Producer of PetraStar Media, producing non-fiction television content for networks and streaming platforms.
Amal David
Dr. Amal Khalil David is the Director of Community Engagement at Arab America (www.arabamerica.com) and co-founder and board member of the Arab America Foundation, where she currently leads a grass-roots network of Arab heritage teams nationwide. A Palestinian born in Nazareth, she earned her Ph.D. in Communication with an emphasis on multicultural education. She has over 35 years of experience in bilingual education as an administrator in Detroit Public Schools and as an adjunct professor at the college level. Additionally, she was a producer and a host of several radio programs in Detroit. In Washington DC, she created and developed the largest grass-roots Arab American women’s initiative in the U.S. Her participation as a community leader and advocate portrays a positive image of Arab American women.
Warren David
Warren David is the president of Arab America (www.arabamerica.com), a national media organization founded to promote an accurate image of the Arab American community and identity through several digital media platforms, which include an online website, Arab America E-News, and several social media platforms. He is a co-founder of the Arab America Foundation. This non-profit promotes the Arab heritage and empowers Arab Americans in the U.S. He is the former national president of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee in Washington, D.C., and was executive producer of the nationally acclaimed public television series “Arab American Stories.” A third-generation Arab American of Syrian and Lebanese heritage, he has invested his time and personal resources to document and tell the story of the Arab American experience.
Confirmed Performers to Date
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, captivating 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.
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.