Loading ...Arab America Foundation Announces 20 Under 20 Awardees--Class of 2025
For Immediate Release
Washington DC (April 2, 2025): The Arab America Foundation announced today the 20 Under 20 initiative awardees. Twenty Arab Americans from throughout the U.S. were announced. Judges from different states reviewed the applications anonymously without identification of name or ethnicity.
The Awardees are: Meriam Ahmad, Majdi Alameddine, Yaman Albittar, Saif Almadani, Mariam Amin, Angelina Imad Ayoubi, Lina Baki, Bissan Elzein, John Fahoum, Lara Hammoud, Hamzah Kerdi, Amalia Kouzy, Roy Marina, Aisha Muhsin, Andrew Rahana, Michael Saleeby, Marlien William, Leonela Jabbour Yammine, Ramsey Zeidaan.
20 Under 20 is a celebration of accomplished young Arab Americans. The program spotlights students (16- 20 years old) who achieved spectacular academic success, work/internships, community service, extracurricular activities, clubs, sports, music, arts, and writing. We also acknowledge achievements demonstrating outstanding leadership, dedication to a career path, new initiatives, and commitment to Arab American heritage and culture.
“Each of these young leaders is a beacon of hope for our community and our nation,” said Warren David, co-founder of the Arab America Foundation and president of Arab America. “Their passion, perseverance, and pride in their Arab heritage inspire us all. They are shaping their futures and the future of Arab America with courage, compassion, and an unshakable sense of identity.”
The awardees are aged 20 and under, excel in their studies, work actively in their communities to help their peers, and demonstrate a commitment to their Arab heritage. The competition was open to all students who live and/or work in the United States and are of Arab descent. All awardees have shown remarkable leadership in their academics and extracurricular activities. They have exemplified what it means to be an Arab American in an increasingly multinational world.
The Arab America Foundation and its board are grateful for the leadership of the initiative’s coordinators, Nabelah Ghareeb and Elias T. Khalil, and for the prestigious panel of judges.
The 20 Under 20 awardees for the class of 2025 will be honored at the Connect Arab America: Empowerment Summit in the fall at a date to be announced.
About the Arab America Foundation
The Arab America Foundation (AAF) is a non-profit (501(c)(3)) educational and cultural organization. The mission of the AAF is to Promote the Arab heritage and empower Arab Americans; Educate Americans about Arab identity and culture, and to Connect Arab Americans to each other and to other communities.
For more information about the 20 Under 20 initiative, click here.
For more information about the Arab America Foundation, click here.
For media inquiries, please get in touch with Claire Boyle, click here
The 20 Under 20 Awardees, Class of 2025
Meriam Ahmad
Meriam Ahmad is a student at Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service, majoring in International Economics. Born to immigrant parents and raised in San Jose, California, she is proudly Iraqi-American. Having served as the Speaker of Georgetown’s undergraduate student senate and worked for the Office of Muslim Life, Meriam is deeply engaged in her campus community and is passionate about advocating for important everyday issues. She has served on various university committees, including Provost Advisory and Speech and Expression, and has successfully pushed for numerous changes to campus operations. Committed to Georgetown’s value-driven mission, she moderated a Campus Ministry panel during New Student Orientation and was inducted into Georgetown’s chapter of Alpha Sigma Nu, the Jesuit honor society valuing scholarship, loyalty, and service. With an academic interest in data analysis in economics and public policy, she plans to pursue economic consulting upon graduation while continuing her advocacy efforts.
Majdi Alameddine
Majdi Alameddine is a 16-year-old Lebanese-American junior from Boyd Buchanan in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Majdi embodies the spirit of innovation and social change. As the founder of Arelvo, he revolutionizes how students engage with Arab American history and AAPI history. His research spans political science and public health at organizations like OutsideConnection, a Supreme Court-backed NGO that has connected over 10,000 reentrants with employment. Majdi’s community service includes serving as the National US Outreach Officer at EcoBrothers, which has distributed 225,000+ books and raised $125,000+ to underserved communities. He represents youth voices on the Tennessee Youth Equity Board, Civics Unplugged Civic Innovator, Youth AAPI Rising, Learn AAPI History, and International Chapter Director at Nexus Learning. Majdi also excels locally, founding his school’s Chess, Science Bowl, and Science Olympiad teams and winning a state championship in soccer. Recognized by US Congressman Chuck Fleischmann, US Presidential Candidate Ben Carson, and named a National STEM Challenge Finalist, Majdi strives to impact community engagement and public policy.
Yaman Albittar
Yaman Albittar was born and raised in Syria, where he grew up amid the challenges of war and resilience. In 2023, he relocated to the United States and began rebuilding his life, adapting to a new language, culture, and education system. Despite these obstacles, Yaman quickly excelled, earning a 4.0 GPA, becoming a dual enrollment student at the University of Florida, and demonstrating strong leadership, service, and research skills. He was named a QuestBridge National College Match Finalist—an honor awarded to only 7,288 out of over 25,500 applicants—and is one of just 30 nationally matched with Hamilton College on a full four-year scholarship. Passionate about medicine and research, Yaman was accepted into the MD Anderson Cancer Center’s CATALYST Summer Training Program, where he will conduct oncology research with top physicians. Yaman proudly carries his past with him, not as a burden, but as a driving force for change and impact.
Saif Almadani
Saif Almadani is a student at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, concentrating in Finance and Statistics and minoring in Modern Middle Eastern Studies. He was born in Arlington, VA, but raised in Jordan before returning to the US to attend college. Saif is passionate about empowering the Arab-American community in the Finance industry. He is one of the founding members of the Arab Finance Society, an organization dedicated to supporting Arab-Americans interested in pursuing a career in Finance. He is the organization’s Executive Vice President and founded its educational accelerator program. At UPenn, Saif is involved with the Wharton Investment and Trading Group, and the Violet Quaker Group, a student-run investment fund with 120,000$ under management. Beyond Finance, Saif serves as a Resident Advisor at Riepe College House, is an active member of Penn MMA, and composes his own music.
Mariam Amin
Mariam Amin is an 11th-grade student at Brooklyn Technical High School in New York City and a proud Arab American. Fluent in Arabic, she is deeply committed to uplifting her community and increasing representation for Arab Americans in STEM. She founded her school’s Middle Eastern Student Association to create a space for cultural pride and advocacy, organizing heritage events to educate others about Arab history and combat stereotypes. She also volunteers at her local mosque, teaches children Arabic, helps coordinate Ramadan food distributions, and leads fundraising efforts for humanitarian relief in the Middle East. Passionate about using technology for social impact, Mariam is an app developer and researcher dedicated to solving real-world problems. She has built platforms that support small businesses, improve environmental awareness, and promote public health. As President of Girls Who Code and the Society of Women Engineers, she works to empower young women in STEM.
Angelina Imad Ayoubi
Angelina Imad Ayoubi is a first-generation Egyptian-Syrian American from New York passionate about science, technology, engineering, and medicine. She believes these fields reflect our history and future and is committed to contributing to society through meaningful, lasting advancements. Angelina’s identity, upbringing, and cultural heritage are central to her purpose, driving her dedication to community, equity, and progress. As a student at MIT, she explores the intersection of engineering and medicine, developing research constructs that reveal how environmental factors influence human health. Her award-winning research has earned recognition for its innovation and impact. Committed to bridging science and policy, Angelina advocates for equity and actionable change, striving to improve lives through informed, compassionate solutions. Guided by pride in her family, culture, and global community, she continues to push boundaries in research and leadership, with a vision of shaping a more inclusive and healthier world.
Lina Baki
Lina Baki is an 18-year-old Lebanese-American raised in South Carolina. She is currently a senior at Nation Ford High School. She will be attending Brown University as a member of the 8-year Program in Liberal Medical Education, where she will earn both her undergraduate and medical degrees. She serves as her high school’s Student Body President and was the valedictorian of the junior class. Lina also dances classical ballet as a senior company member of the Ballet of York County, where she performed as the company’s Sugar Plum Fairy in “The Nutcracker” for both the 2023 and 2024 seasons. Her work as a tour guide for the Fort Mill History Museum blends her Arab heritage with the southern American context she grew up in and fuels her interest in art history. At university, Lina will continue her art history studies alongside medicine.
Bissan Elzein
Bissan Elzein is a first-generation Lebanese-American from Dearborn, Michigan. She is an incoming freshman at Columbia University and plans to concentrate in Public Health on a pre-med track. Bissan conducted biochemistry research through the Summer Science Program and co-authored a paper on fungal inhibitor design to combat crop infection. As part of the Dearborn Students Against Vaping Initiative, Bissan led 30 students to Michigan’s state capital to engage with state representatives on anti-vaping legislation. She also interned at the University of Michigan Adolescent Health Initiative, where she helped organize an international research conference focused on adolescent health for minority groups. As class president, she raised over $45,000 for her school. Bissan was also named a 2024 Questbridge Scholar. She aims to become a physician and eventually work to influence public health policy to advocate for underserved communities, including her own.
John Fahoum
John Fahoum, a proud Syrian American from Selma, Alabama—the heart of America’s civil rights movement—has developed a deep passion for advocacy and public service. Growing up in a family of Syrian immigrants instilled in him a strong sense of responsibility to speak up for the marginalized and overlooked. His experiences include serving in a Texas Senate office and advocating for legislative reform on the floor of the Texas House of Representatives. John sees this work as a continuation of his community’s journey and the legacy of Arab Americans who came before him. Fluent in Arabic and fascinated by world cultures, he has also studied Spanish and Turkish to broaden his global perspective. John plans to pursue a dual major in Government and Plan II at the University of Texas at Austin to better understand how public institutions can be harnessed to uplift lives and drive positive, lasting change in American society.
Lara Hammoud
Lara Hammoud is a researcher, activist, and nonprofit founder dedicated to advancing neurodiversity acceptance. She is a high school junior from Michigan with Lebanese heritage. As a first-place winner at the International Science and Engineering Fair, she uncovered the genetic foundations of neurodevelopmental disorders, revolutionizing neuroscience. Additionally, she co-founded The Perception Foundation, providing thousands with access to sensory spaces by designing sensory rooms in schools, clinics, and community centers. She also leads sensory-friendly events and Perception Clubs, mentoring students in research, philanthropy, and social entrepreneurship. As an invited speaker and autism advocate, she works to break the stigma surrounding sensory spaces and increase accessibility. Through partnerships with the Girl Scouts to empower young women in STEM and entrepreneurship and to collaborate with businesses to raise awareness about neurodiversity, she remains committed to “Building Our New Normal,” a future where all youth believe in their ability to change the world.
Hamzah Kerdi
Hamzah Kerdi, a junior at UC San Diego majoring in Political Science and Public Law, proudly embraces his Lebanese and Moroccan heritage. As an Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholar, he specializes in Justice, Rights, Equity, and Inclusion, earning a $50,000 scholarship, a $15,000 fully funded summer voyage, and $20,000 in global travel credits. Hamzah is also one of a select group of undergraduates nationwide chosen for the prestigious Public Policy and International Affairs Fellowship at Harvard University’s Kennedy School. Dedicated to public service and policy, he serves as a Governmental Relations and Legislative Affairs Analyst with the University of California Office of Federal Governmental Relations in Washington, D.C., where he advocates for higher education policy. Additionally, he conducts PhD-level research on Middle East Politics at UCSD’s Political Science Department. Hamzah’s passions lie in international affairs, education equity, and legislative advocacy, and he is committed to advancing justice and human rights across borders.
Amalia Kouzy
Amalia Kouzy is pursuing a degree in Neuroscience with a minor in Business at Michigan State University, where she is also part of the Osteopathic Medical Scholars Program. She aspires to become a doctor of osteopathic medicine, driven by her passion for patient care, leadership, and service. Amalia has gained hands-on clinical experience as a Medical Assistant and Scribe in dermatology and has shadowed physicians to deepen her understanding of patient care. Beyond the clinical setting, she actively participates in hospice care, tutoring, food banks, and community outreach initiatives. She serves as Co-President of the National Arab American Medical Association-NAAMA, student chapter, where she is dedicated to supporting Arab American students and fostering a strong sense of community. Amalia is committed to using her experiences to advance healthcare, uplift others, and make a meaningful medical impact.
Roy Marina
Roy Marina, a first-generation Syrian-American and 11th-grade student, is passionate about global equity, diplomacy, and service. He is the Founder and President of his school’s UNICEF Chapter—the largest student-founded club on campus—where he has led efforts raising thousands for global relief. Roy also serves as a Board Leader for the American Syrian Arab Cultural Association (ASACA), organizing events and humanitarian aid for underserved Arab communities. Notably, he led a fundraiser supporting post-war reconstruction in his family’s village in Mount Hermon, Syria. A changemaker on campus, Roy is also the founder and Secretary-General of his school’s Model United Nations team, Secretary of the Student Equity Committee, and Youth Diplomat with WorldChicago. He is a National Merit Scholarship Qualifier, AP Scholar, and HarvardX Global Affairs student. Roy’s commitment to public health, business, and development reflects his mission to lead purposefully, build community, and promote global understanding.
Aisha Muhsin
Aisha Muhsin is a 16-year-old Iraqi-American from California, passionate about advocacy, leadership, and medicine. She leads DEI initiatives through SAME, MENA, MSA, and Smoke-Free Iraq, a public health initiative combating youth smoking, and Modesty and Might, an organization empowering hijabi teenagers. She hopes to pursue a career in medicine to bridge healthcare disparities. She interned under a neurosurgeon at UCI and researched Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH). Outside of advocacy and medicine, Aisha is the President of her school’s Mock Trial team, a Scholastic Writing Award recipient, a varsity cross-country athlete, and a violinist in her school’s orchestra. She is committed to using her voice and skills to drive meaningful change.
Andrew Rahana
Andrew Rahana is a junior at BASIS Peoria, and he is president of his schools’ American Red Cross club, along with founding his own club, Bio-Brain, that has a $500 grant to support STEM education in his community. Andrew is apart of a medical assisting program where he is HOSA President, and by the time he graduates highschool, he will have earned his Registered Medical Assisting and Registered Phlebotomist certifications. Outside of medicine, Andrew is an officer his schools’ UNICEF and Yearbook Club. After his high-school career, Andrew plans on pursuing education, majoring in Molecular and Cellular Biology, minoring in Middle Eastern History, and moving onto graduate school. He plans on obtaining an M.D.-Ph.D., where he hopes to become a neurosurgeon after medical school. He wishes to have an active role in bettering the lives of people in my community.
Michael Saleeby
Michael (Mich) Saleeby, a freshman at the University of Michigan Ann Arbor, is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Economics with a minor in Statistics. He recently earned the William J. Branstrom Freshman Prize, awarded to students in the top 5% of their freshman class. Raised in Boston, Massachusetts, to Lebanese parents, Michael values his cultural heritage deeply. His Lebanese family originates from Souk El Gharb and now resides in Mansourieh. Currently interning in corporate finance at MGH Institute of Health Professions and participating in Goldman Sachs’ Possibilities Summit, he will join Abu Dhabi Capital Group as an intern this summer in their Hospitality and Real Estate Development divisions. An active member of Wolverine Capital Investments, Arab Business Society, and Lebanese Student Association, he aspires to integrate his passion for finance with his cultural roots. Outside academics, Michael enjoys playing the trumpet and staying active at the gym. Go Blue!
Marlien William
Marlien William is a proud first-generation Coptic-Egyptian American and a freshman at the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business. She is passionate about the intersection of business and public policy and aspires to create meaningful impact as a consultant in the government and public service sectors. On campus, she co-founded the Coptic Club, raising funds to support an orphan in Egypt, reflecting her commitment to global service and cultural pride. Marlien also expresses her heritage through art, painting scenes of Egyptian landscapes like the pyramids. She is equally devoted to mentorship, actively guiding and empowering the next generation of Arab American leaders. Through her work and advocacy, she continues to give back to the Arab American community in Michigan and beyond.
Leonela Jabbour Yammine
Leonela Jabbour Yammine was born in Caracas, Venezuela, to a Syrian-Lebanese family that immigrated there in search of opportunity. Growing up as one of the few Arabs in her community, she navigated multiple cultures while witnessing Venezuela’s economic collapse, which later led her family to immigrate to the U.S. Now a junior at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, she pursues her passion for neuroscience, medicine, and advocacy. As a Certified Nurse Assistant, she has gained hands-on experience in patient care, reinforcing her commitment to healthcare accessibility, hoping to continue her experience through her EMT training. She has interned at the Arlington Department of Human Services to contribute to mental health policy reform with the Marcus Alert System and supported newly arrived immigrants through her work with the Centreville Immigration Forum. She’s also a tutor at her local learning center and Youth Board Member at the NOVA Children’s Science Center. She hopes to combine medicine, research, and advocacy to drive meaningful change in the Arab community.
Ramsey Zeidan
Ramsey Zeidan is a 19-year-old Palestinian American from Orlando, FL. He is a freshman at the University of Florida, pursuing a double major in Political Science and Data Science on the Pre-Law track. He graduated as the Salutatorian of his class from Orlando Science High School, is a National Merit Scholar and is recognized on the University of Florida Dean’s Honor Roll. He is involved with Florida High School Model UN, where he won Best Delegate two years in a row and now serves as the Director of Academics. At the University of Florida, he is the Vice President of the campus chapter of Students Demand Action. During high school, Ramsey volunteered as a data analyst for the Orlando Center for Justice, a nonprofit organization that supports asylum seekers in the United States. In his free time, Ramsey enjoys exploring diverse cuisines, with a particular passion for Middle Eastern dishes.
Compiled by Arab America
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