Loading ...Arab America Foundation Announces Program for the CONNECT Arab America: Empowerment Summit 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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(WASHINGTON, D.C., September 18, 2024)– The Arab America Foundation is excited to announce the program for the CONNECT Arab America: Empowerment Summit to be held on Friday, October 25, and Saturday, October 26, 2024. at the Ford Community and Performing Arts Center, 15801 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn, Michigan 48126.
Connect Arab America: Empowerment Summit Program
Venue: Dearborn Community and Performing Arts Center, 15801 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn, Michigan 48126.
Hotel: Marriott Courtyard Dearborn, 5200 Mercury Drive, Dearborn, Michigan 48126
- Rooms are $159 for a king room or a room with two queen beds.
- Breakfast is included
- Free Parking
The reservation cut-off date is September 27th, 2024
For reservations, you may call 800-321-2211 and reference the Arab America Foundation room block at the Courtyard Dearborn, or you may book directly online: Register Here
https://givebutter.com/c/aYtIV0/auction
Friday Afternoon, October 25:
CONNECT Arab America: Empowerment Summit
12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Registration and Information
1:30 pm – 2:15 pm
PANEL: Strengthening Arab Identity: AAF’s National Movement for Empowerment
This panel explores the Arab American Foundation’s efforts to promote cultural pride and unity within Arab American communities. Activists will discuss initiatives to preserve heritage, foster leadership, and address challenges Arab Americans face today. Attendees will gain insights into the foundation’s mission to empower Arab identity through education, civic engagement, and empowerment while building a strong, unified community nationwide.
Moderator:
Mahbuba Hammad, Educator and State Co-Team Leader, California
Panelists
Bassel Abdallah, Co-Team Leader, Ohio
Stefan Ateek, Professor of Social Work, Texas State Team Leader
Eynas Jarrar, Co-Team Leader, New England
Lina Shatara, Co-Team Leader, Tennessee
2:30 pm – 3:15 pm
PANEL: A Dialogue on Entrepreneurship and Business Leadership
An insightful panel discussion featuring entrepreneurs and business leaders who will explore key strategies for innovation, growth, and leadership in today’s competitive market.
Moderator:
Nabeleh Ghareeb, Co-Coordinator Rising Leaders Initiative, Michigan Co-Team Leader
Panelists:
Susan Dakak, Co-Founder, Arab Business Enterprise
Bilal Hammoud, Executive Director, American-Arab Chamber of Commerce
Kamal Shouhayib, Founder and CEO Choice Properties
Reda Taleb, Arab American Women’s Business Council
3:30 pm – 4:15 pm
PANEL: Empowering Voices: The Emergence of Leadership Amongst Young Arab Americans
This panel highlights the rise of a new generation of young Arab American leaders impacting various fields. It will feature young changemakers driving social, political, and cultural progress while staying rooted in their heritage. Attendees will gain insights into their unique challenges, their strategies for success, and how they are reshaping the narrative of Arab American identity and leadership.
Moderator:
Omar Kurdi
Omar Kurdi, President, Arab Americans of Cleveland, 40 Under 40, Class of 2020
Panelists:
Asma Ali, Immigration Attorney, 30 Under 30, Class of 2021
Jad-Évangelo Nasser, Global Inclusion and Cross-Cultural Expert
Micheline Maalouf, Influencer, Mental Health Counselor and Educator, 40 Under 40, Class of 2024
Wesam Shahed, Policy Advisor, Assistant State Attorney, Cook County, 30 Under 30, Class of 2021
REGISTER HERE
4:15 pm – 5:00 pm
Event: Single Mingle Networker
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
EVENT: Ahlan Networking Reception and Dinner
Ahlan! Welcome to the much-awaited opening reception of the CONNECT Arab America: Empowerment Summit! This is the moment we’ve all been eagerly anticipating—a joyous kick-off where we come together for the first time to forge new connections. Prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey of empowerment, inspiration, and community.
8:00 pm – 10:00 pm
EVENT: Fann Wa Tarab Concert and Cultural Evening
Friday: October 25, 2024, Ford Community & Performing Arts Center, 15801 Michigan Ave., Dearborn, MI
Open: Warren David, President, Arab America, Co-Founder of Arab America Foundation
Welcoming Remarks: Amir Ghaleb: Mayor of Hamtramck
Performance: Im Hussein, Ajyal Theatrical Group, Dearborn, MI
Performance: Three Iconic Voices of the 20th Century
Abdel Halim Hafez, Fairuz, and Sabah Fakri are monumental figures in the landscape of Arab music, each leaving an indelible mark on the 20th century.
Abdel Halim Hafez, often called the “Nightingale,” brought a modern and romantic sensibility to Arab music. His songs resonated deeply with the youth of his time. Vocalist Zak Baalbaki will perform iconic selections from Hafez’s most renowned music.
Fairuz, with her ethereal voice and evocative music, became a symbol of Lebanese heritage and pride, transcending national borders to become beloved globally. Vocalist Nibal Malshi will perform selections of Fairuz’s most legendary songs.
Sabah Fakhri was a legendary Syrian tenor and iconic singer of traditional Arab music, renowned for his powerful voice and mastery of the Muwashahat and Qudud Halabiya genres. Vocalist Abdulsalam Alnajjar will perform selections of Fakri’s best-known songs.
The concert is orchestrated and conducted by the founder and music director of the National Arab Orchestra, Michael Ibrahim.
10:00 pm
EVENT: Post-networking following Fann Wa Tarab cultural event
Marriott Courtyard Hotel Lobby, 5200 Mercury Dr, Dearborn, MI 48126
10:00 pm
An exciting networking event for young professionals in the heart of Dearborn
Location to be announced soon!
REGISTER HERE
SATURDAY Morning Session
CONNECT Arab America: Empowerment Summit
Connecting and empowering Arab Americans nationwide with presentations by community leaders, influential women, rising leaders, and awesome performers.
8:00 am-3:30 pm
Registration and Information
Exhibits Open
8:00 am – 9:30 am
EVENT: Man’oushe, Foul, and Qahwa Networking Breakfast
Indulge your senses in authentic Arab and American delicacies and prepare yourself for a delightful morning as you mingle and connect with fellow summit attendees; you’ll have the opportunity to meet and get acquainted with like-minded Arab Americans from various backgrounds.
9:30 am – 3:30 pm
Music Interludes
Abe Diab, Arab Org Keyboardist
Opening Session
9:30 am – 9:45 am
Sara Shouhayib, Master of Ceremonies
Warren David, President, Arab America, Co-Founder, Arab America Foundation
Dr. Amal David, Director of Community Engagement, Co-Founder, Arab America Foundation
9:45 am – 10:30 am
PANEL: Leading Change: Arab Americans in Public Service
This panel will highlight the vital role Arab Americans play in shaping local, state, and federal government. This panel will feature leaders and public servants who have significantly contributed to their communities through public service. Panelists will discuss their experiences, challenges, and strategies for increasing Arab American representation in civic life.
Moderator:
Marwa Ghumrawi, Washington Center for Yemeni Studies
Panelists:
Abraham Aiyash, Michigan House of Representatives, District 9
Jamiel Altaheri, Chief of Police, City of Hamtramck
Alabas Farhat, Michigan House of Representatives, District 3
Fayrouz Saad, Assistant Secretary, Partnership and Engagement, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, 40 Under 40, Class of 2021
Assad Turfe, Deputy County Executive, Wayne County, MI
10:30 am – 10:45 am
Cultural Performance with Vocalist Nibal Malshi
10:45 am – 11:30 am
PANEL: Empowering the Arab American Vote: Shaping Our Political Future
This panel explores the critical role Arab Americans play in shaping the future of U.S. politics by leveraging their collective vote in the election. Panelists will discuss strategies for increasing voter turnout, understanding key issues that resonate with the Arab American community, and navigating the political landscape to ensure Arab American voices are heard.
Maya Berry, Executive Director, Arab American Institute
Moderator:
Panelists:
Abbas Alawieh, Co-Chair Uncommitted National Movement
Rania Batrice, Political and Non-Profit Strategist
Layla Elabed, Co-Chair, Uncommitted National Movement, Campaign Manager, Listen to Michigan
Andy Levin, Former U.S. Congressman (MI)
11:30 pm – 11:45 pm
Recognition of State Team Leaders and Representatives
Moderator: Dr. Amal David, Director of Community Engagement Arab America, Co-Founder Arab America Foundation
11:45 pm – 12:30 pm
EVENT: Rising Leaders Recognition
Join our Zeffa celebration as we honor the Rising Leaders of 2023 and 2024! This unique initiative aims to highlight the outstanding talents and valuable contributions of Arab Americans in three distinct age groups: 40 Under 40, 30 Under 30, and 20 Under 20. These exceptional individuals represent the rising leaders of our community, and we take immense pride in acknowledging their unwavering dedication and hard work. Over 400 Arab Americans have been recognized since 2020.
Moderators:
Nabeleh Ghareeb, Co-Coordinator Rising Leaders Initiative, Michigan Co-Team Leader
Elias Khalil, Co-Coordinator Rising Leaders Initiative
Noura Ismail, New York Co-Team Leader
REGISTER HERE
12:30 pm – 1:30 pm
EVENT: Sahtein Networking Lunch
Join us for the Sahtein Networking Lunch and connect with Arab American attendees from various parts of the United States.
1:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Saturday Afternoon Session:
CONNECT Arab America Empowerment Summit
Connecting and empowering Arab Americans nationwide with presentations by community leaders, influential women, rising leaders, and awesome performers.
1:30 pm – 2:15 pm
PANEL: Connecting with Arab American Women: We Hear You, We See You
This panel will highlight the voices, experiences, and leadership of Arab American women across various sectors. The discussion will explore challenges, triumphs, and the growing influence of women in areas such as business, activism, education, and community building. Panelists will share personal stories, empowerment strategies, and insights on how Arab American women can continue to break barriers and shape a more inclusive future.
Moderator:
Dr. Debbie Almontaser, Educator, Entrepreneur, Speaker, and Author
Panelists:
Randa Adra, Attorney/Partner Crowell and Moring, 40 Under 40, Class of 2023
Hama Hinnawi, Feminist Artist and Fashion Designer
Alma Korkor, President, National Arab American Women’s Association
Sarah Shendy, Police Lieutenant at Case Western Reserve University
2:15 pm – 3:15 pm
PANEL: Countering Misrepresentations of Arabs in America: Media, Civil Rights, and Beyond
This panel will explore practical strategies to combat the misrepresentation of Arabs in America across multiple sectors, including media, civil rights, Palestine advocacy, the workplace, students, academia, and entertainment. Experts will discuss how these misrepresentations fuel discrimination and hinder progress and offer actionable solutions to challenge stereotypes, advocate for justice, and ensure accurate representation.
Moderator:
Abderrahim Foukara, Washington DC Bureau Chief, Al Jazeera
Panelists:
Nabih Ayad, Founder and Chairman, Arab American Civil Rights League
Rush Darwish, President, Arab American Business and Professional Association, Organizer, Arab Americans 4Ward
Rosina Hassoun, Professor of Sociology, Saginaw Valley State University
Rami Khouri, Policy Fellow, AUB, Nonresident Senior Fellow, Arab Center DC
Summit Daytime Activities End
3:15 pm
Optional:
3:30 pm
Breakout: Rising Leaders (40, 30, 20 Awardees)
Rising Leaders Awardees from all classes will gather at the Connect Summit for a special networking event. This get-together offers a unique opportunity for awardees to meet, connect, and build relationships. It’s a chance to exchange ideas, share experiences, and strengthen their professional networks.
Breakout: Yemeni Community Meeting
Members of the Yemeni community gather to address the pressing challenges they face and explore ways to strengthen unity. The discussion will focus on critical issues affecting their local and global community, emphasizing fostering collaboration and collective action, working toward common goals, and building a stronger, more cohesive community.
Mona Abdulla, Yemeni Community Activist
Sam Alasri, Yemeni Community Activist
Breakout: Palestine on My Mind and the Peoples of Lebanon, Yemen, Sudan, and Syria
As conflict and hardship continue to shape the lives of millions across the Arab world, the struggle for justice and peace remains at the forefront of our minds. Palestine stands as a poignant symbol of resilience, but the challenges are shared by many of our homeland’s people. The call for solidarity grows stronger as we hold on to the hope for peace, dignity, and a future free from suffering for all the people of our homeland.
SATURDAY Evening, October 26:
5:30 pm – 11:00 pm
EVENT: Al Rabitah Gala Banquet
The Al Rabitah Gala Banquet is an event deeply rooted in the vision of Arab American writer and philosopher Kahlil Gibran, who initiated “Al Rabitah” (The Connection) over a century ago. Inspired by his ambition to unite Arab Americans under the spirit of heritage, culture, and identity, we gather to honor our shared roots and create lasting connections. You will receive a plated dinner and a rich program celebrating our identity.
6:45 pm
Open and Introductions:
Meira, a Multifaceted Music Innovator
Ameera David, Master of Ceremonies, News Anchor, Emmy Award Winning Journalist
Remarks:
Warren David, President, Arab America, Co-Founder, Arab America Foundation
Dr. James Zogby, President and Founder, Arab American Institute
Congressman Ro Khana, (D-CA 17)
7:30 pm
Auction:
Sara Shouhayib Alawar, Emmy Award Winning Journalist and Emcee
Rush Darwish, President, Arab American Business and Professional Association, Chicago
8:00 pm
Dinner and Knafeh Fest!
8:45 pm
Mahmoud Beydoun and Ensemble
11:00 pm
End of Saturday Evening Activities
Optional: Sunday, October 27:
10:00 am
EVENT: Yalla Connect! Farewell Networker
Join us for one last opportunity to connect and bid farewell to each other. This gathering allows us to come together once more, cherishing the memories we’ve created and celebrating the bonds we’ve formed. Yalla, let’s make the most of this moment and bid farewell with a promise to stay connected and meet again soon!
Mariott Courtyard Dearborn, 5200 Mercury Dr, Dearborn, MI
11:00 am
EVENT: Yalla Let’s Baladi Workshop
Zizi Zabaneh, Acclaimed Middle Eastern Dance Instructor
Mariott Courtyard Dearborn, 5200 Mercury Dr, Dearborn, MI
1:00 pm
EVENT: Special Complimentary Luncheon for Cousins (Paid Members) and Sponsors
Join us for a special Cousins Luncheon at Sheeba Yemeni Mediterranean Cuisine on Sunday, October 26, at 1 p.m. after the Connect Summit as a token of our appreciation for your continued support and dedication to the Arab America Foundation. This special gathering offers a chance to connect with fellow members, share experiences, and celebrate the vibrant Arab American community. Enjoy a delicious Arab meal while engaging in meaningful conversations and building lasting relationships.
Sheeba Yemeni Mediterranean Cuisine–22048 Michigan Ave, Dearborn, MI 48126
Please support our efforts and become Become a Cousin HERE!
12:00 pm-6:00 pm
EVENT: Discounted tickets to the Arab American National Museum
Show your Connect Summit registration badge to receive a discounted ticket.
For Press Inquiries: Claire Boyle
REGISTER HERE
For Sponsorship Opportunities: Contact Warren David (313-999-6000) wdavid@arabamerica.com
Click this LINK to review Sponsorship Packages
Exhibitor Tables: Click this Link to Register as an Exhibitor
For Discount Hotel Reservations: Register Here
For more information about the Arab America Foundation, please visit: Arab America Foundation
Check out Arab America’s blog here!
