The Gender Working Group
The MENA2050 Gender Working Group is a bold cross-regional initiative grounded in the simple truth that advancing gender equality is essential not only for justice, but for building a more peaceful, prosperous, and cooperative MENA region.
As economic, environmental, and political challenges intensify, gender equality remains both a critical gap and a transformative opportunity. The GWG brings together women leaders from across the region to collaborate, strategize, and act on systemic solutions that put gender equity at the center of MENA’s future.
Our Mission
- Champion women’s leadership in political, economic, and civic life
- Foster cross-border partnerships and peer exchange among women leaders
- Develop practical, future-oriented solutions through a gender lens
Focus Areas
We work across high-impact domains where women’s leadership can reshape the region:
- Women’s political participation and civic leadership
- Economic empowerment and innovation access
- Climate resilience and sustainability
- Ending gender-based violence
What We Do
Through regional dialogues, storytelling campaigns, policy innovation, and joint fundraising, the GWG connects grassroots leadership to a shared 2050 vision, amplifying women’s voices and catalyzing change.
Founded by Elana Banin, and co-led by Dr. Sara Bazoobandi, Nidal Azhary, and Wydiane Djaidi, the Working Group is supported by a committed core team and the MENA2050 Secretariat.
Elana Banin
Co-Chair
Israel, USA Israel, USA
lana Banin is a strategist, writer, and policy analyst, currently working at the intersection of AI governance, public-sector innovation, and global development. She serves as Interim Communications Director at Northeastern University’s Burnes Center for Social Change and the Governance Lab, leading editorial strategy for the Reboot Democracy Blog, translating research on AI, civic capacity, and democratic governance into accessible insights for public leaders. Elana is also a Research Fellow at Capita, where she focuses on the societal impacts of emerging technologies on families and children; a Research Group Member at the Center for AI and Digital Policy (CAIDP); and an Advisor to the Multifaith Alliance (MFA) and Instant Aid, supporting strategic communications and program strategy for humanitarian response in the Middle East and beyond. Previously, Elana was a Policy Advisor at the International Rescue Committee, leading public policy engagement on issues affecting women, children, and families. She brings 15 years of experience across development, humanitarian, and peacebuilding work. Her past roles include leading strategic planning in UNICEF’s Division of Communications, directing research analytics for policy and advocacy at PATH, and serving as a
Israel, USA Israel, USA
lana Banin is a strategist, writer, and policy analyst, currently working at the intersection of AI governance, public-sector innovation, and global development. She serves as Interim Communications Director at Northeastern University’s Burnes Center for Social Change and the Governance Lab, leading editorial strategy for the Reboot Democracy Blog, translating research on AI, civic capacity, and democratic governance into accessible insights for public leaders. Elana is also a Research Fellow at Capita, where she focuses on the societal impacts of emerging technologies on families and children; a Research Group Member at the Center for AI and Digital Policy (CAIDP); and an Advisor to the Multifaith Alliance (MFA) and Instant Aid, supporting strategic communications and program strategy for humanitarian response in the Middle East and beyond. Previously, Elana was a Policy Advisor at the International Rescue Committee, leading public policy engagement on issues affecting women, children, and families. She brings 15 years of experience across development, humanitarian, and peacebuilding work. Her past roles include leading strategic planning in UNICEF’s Division of Communications, directing research analytics for policy and advocacy at PATH, and serving as a
Elana Banin
Co-Chair
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Co-Chair
Israel, USA Israel, USA
lana Banin is a strategist, writer, and policy analyst, currently working at the intersection of AI governance, public-sector innovation, and global development. She serves as Interim Communications Director at Northeastern University’s Burnes Center for Social Change and the Governance Lab, leading editorial strategy for the Reboot Democracy Blog, translating research on AI, civic capacity, and democratic governance into accessible insights for public leaders. Elana is also a Research Fellow at Capita, where she focuses on the societal impacts of emerging technologies on families and children; a Research Group Member at the Center for AI and Digital Policy (CAIDP); and an Advisor to the Multifaith Alliance (MFA) and Instant Aid, supporting strategic communications and program strategy for humanitarian response in the Middle East and beyond. Previously, Elana was a Policy Advisor at the International Rescue Committee, leading public policy engagement on issues affecting women, children, and families. She brings 15 years of experience across development, humanitarian, and peacebuilding work. Her past roles include leading strategic planning in UNICEF’s Division of Communications, directing research analytics for policy and advocacy at PATH, and serving as a Research Fellow at the Institute for National Security Studies, where she examined regional dynamics during the onset of the Syrian conflict. Her earlier research also focused on the external financing flows that shape the Israeli-Palestinian landscape. Elana is the founder of the MENA2050 Gender Working Group, an initiative aimed at advancing gender-informed policy, inclusive regional cooperation, and long-term social and economic resilience across the MENA region. She holds an MA in Security and Diplomacy from Tel Aviv University.
Israel, USA Israel, USA
lana Banin is a strategist, writer, and policy analyst, currently working at the intersection of AI governance, public-sector innovation, and global development. She serves as Interim Communications Director at Northeastern University’s Burnes Center for Social Change and the Governance Lab, leading editorial strategy for the Reboot Democracy Blog, translating research on AI, civic capacity, and democratic governance into accessible insights for public leaders. Elana is also a Research Fellow at Capita, where she focuses on the societal impacts of emerging technologies on families and children; a Research Group Member at the Center for AI and Digital Policy (CAIDP); and an Advisor to the Multifaith Alliance (MFA) and Instant Aid, supporting strategic communications and program strategy for humanitarian response in the Middle East and beyond. Previously, Elana was a Policy Advisor at the International Rescue Committee, leading public policy engagement on issues affecting women, children, and families. She brings 15 years of experience across development, humanitarian, and peacebuilding work. Her past roles include leading strategic planning in UNICEF’s Division of Communications, directing research analytics for policy and advocacy at PATH, and serving as a Research Fellow at the Institute for National Security Studies, where she examined regional dynamics during the onset of the Syrian conflict. Her earlier research also focused on the external financing flows that shape the Israeli-Palestinian landscape. Elana is the founder of the MENA2050 Gender Working Group, an initiative aimed at advancing gender-informed policy, inclusive regional cooperation, and long-term social and economic resilience across the MENA region. She holds an MA in Security and Diplomacy from Tel Aviv University.
Co-Chair
Co-Chair
Israel, USA Israel, USA
lana Banin is a strategist, writer, and policy analyst, currently working at the intersection of AI governance, public-sector innovation, and global development. She serves as Interim Communications Director at Northeastern University’s Burnes Center for Social Change and the Governance Lab, leading editorial strategy for the Reboot Democracy Blog, translating research on AI, civic capacity, and democratic governance into accessible insights for public leaders. Elana is also a Research Fellow at Capita, where she focuses on the societal impacts of emerging technologies on families and children; a Research Group Member at the Center for AI and Digital Policy (CAIDP); and an Advisor to the Multifaith Alliance (MFA) and Instant Aid, supporting strategic communications and program strategy for humanitarian response in the Middle East and beyond. Previously, Elana was a Policy Advisor at the International Rescue Committee, leading public policy engagement on issues affecting women, children, and families. She brings 15 years of experience across development, humanitarian, and peacebuilding work. Her past roles include leading strategic planning in UNICEF’s Division of Communications, directing research analytics for policy and advocacy at PATH, and serving as a Research Fellow at the Institute for National Security Studies, where she examined regional dynamics during the onset of the Syrian conflict. Her earlier research also focused on the external financing flows that shape the Israeli-Palestinian landscape. Elana is the founder of the MENA2050 Gender Working Group, an initiative aimed at advancing gender-informed policy, inclusive regional cooperation, and long-term social and economic resilience across the MENA region. She holds an MA in Security and Diplomacy from Tel Aviv University.
Israel, USA Israel, USA
lana Banin is a strategist, writer, and policy analyst, currently working at the intersection of AI governance, public-sector innovation, and global development. She serves as Interim Communications Director at Northeastern University’s Burnes Center for Social Change and the Governance Lab, leading editorial strategy for the Reboot Democracy Blog, translating research on AI, civic capacity, and democratic governance into accessible insights for public leaders. Elana is also a Research Fellow at Capita, where she focuses on the societal impacts of emerging technologies on families and children; a Research Group Member at the Center for AI and Digital Policy (CAIDP); and an Advisor to the Multifaith Alliance (MFA) and Instant Aid, supporting strategic communications and program strategy for humanitarian response in the Middle East and beyond. Previously, Elana was a Policy Advisor at the International Rescue Committee, leading public policy engagement on issues affecting women, children, and families. She brings 15 years of experience across development, humanitarian, and peacebuilding work. Her past roles include leading strategic planning in UNICEF’s Division of Communications, directing research analytics for policy and advocacy at PATH, and serving as a Research Fellow at the Institute for National Security Studies, where she examined regional dynamics during the onset of the Syrian conflict. Her earlier research also focused on the external financing flows that shape the Israeli-Palestinian landscape. Elana is the founder of the MENA2050 Gender Working Group, an initiative aimed at advancing gender-informed policy, inclusive regional cooperation, and long-term social and economic resilience across the MENA region. She holds an MA in Security and Diplomacy from Tel Aviv University.
Dr. Sara Bazoobandi
Co-Chair
Iran Iran
Sara Bazoobandi is a non-resident research fellow at the Institute for Security Policy of Kiel University in Germany. She was previously a Marie Curie fellow at the German Institute of Global and Area Studies working on Iran’s economic diversification and economic resilience strategies. Additionally, she is a non-resident fellow at Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington, and ISPI in Milan. Over the past decade, she has worked as a consultant for various global clients in both public and private sector. Between 2013 and 2018, she was a senior lecturer in international political economy at Regent’s University London. Prior to that, she was a scholar at the Middle East Institute of the National University of Singapore. She was an associate fellow at the MENA program of the Royal Institute of International Affairs, Chatham House, from 2013-16, and was appointed a member of the Global Agenda Council of the World Economic Forum on the Middle East and North Africa for 2014-2016. Sara has been a fellow at Higher Education Academy in the United Kingdom since 2015. She holds a PhD in Arab and Islamic studies from Exeter University, an
Iran Iran
Sara Bazoobandi is a non-resident research fellow at the Institute for Security Policy of Kiel University in Germany. She was previously a Marie Curie fellow at the German Institute of Global and Area Studies working on Iran’s economic diversification and economic resilience strategies. Additionally, she is a non-resident fellow at Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington, and ISPI in Milan. Over the past decade, she has worked as a consultant for various global clients in both public and private sector. Between 2013 and 2018, she was a senior lecturer in international political economy at Regent’s University London. Prior to that, she was a scholar at the Middle East Institute of the National University of Singapore. She was an associate fellow at the MENA program of the Royal Institute of International Affairs, Chatham House, from 2013-16, and was appointed a member of the Global Agenda Council of the World Economic Forum on the Middle East and North Africa for 2014-2016. Sara has been a fellow at Higher Education Academy in the United Kingdom since 2015. She holds a PhD in Arab and Islamic studies from Exeter University, an
Dr. Sara Bazoobandi
Co-Chair
<span
<span
Co-Chair
Iran Iran
Sara Bazoobandi is a non-resident research fellow at the Institute for Security Policy of Kiel University in Germany. She was previously a Marie Curie fellow at the German Institute of Global and Area Studies working on Iran’s economic diversification and economic resilience strategies. Additionally, she is a non-resident fellow at Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington, and ISPI in Milan. Over the past decade, she has worked as a consultant for various global clients in both public and private sector. Between 2013 and 2018, she was a senior lecturer in international political economy at Regent’s University London. Prior to that, she was a scholar at the Middle East Institute of the National University of Singapore. She was an associate fellow at the MENA program of the Royal Institute of International Affairs, Chatham House, from 2013-16, and was appointed a member of the Global Agenda Council of the World Economic Forum on the Middle East and North Africa for 2014-2016. Sara has been a fellow at Higher Education Academy in the United Kingdom since 2015. She holds a PhD in Arab and Islamic studies from Exeter University, an MSc in economic development in emerging markets from the University of Reading, and speaks Persian, English, German, and Arabic. Her current research interests are political economy, security and foreign policy of MENA, Iran, Information Wars, critical discourse analysis, and China-MENA relations.
Iran Iran
Sara Bazoobandi is a non-resident research fellow at the Institute for Security Policy of Kiel University in Germany. She was previously a Marie Curie fellow at the German Institute of Global and Area Studies working on Iran’s economic diversification and economic resilience strategies. Additionally, she is a non-resident fellow at Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington, and ISPI in Milan. Over the past decade, she has worked as a consultant for various global clients in both public and private sector. Between 2013 and 2018, she was a senior lecturer in international political economy at Regent’s University London. Prior to that, she was a scholar at the Middle East Institute of the National University of Singapore. She was an associate fellow at the MENA program of the Royal Institute of International Affairs, Chatham House, from 2013-16, and was appointed a member of the Global Agenda Council of the World Economic Forum on the Middle East and North Africa for 2014-2016. Sara has been a fellow at Higher Education Academy in the United Kingdom since 2015. She holds a PhD in Arab and Islamic studies from Exeter University, an MSc in economic development in emerging markets from the University of Reading, and speaks Persian, English, German, and Arabic. Her current research interests are political economy, security and foreign policy of MENA, Iran, Information Wars, critical discourse analysis, and China-MENA relations.
Co-Chair
Co-Chair
Iran Iran
Sara Bazoobandi is a non-resident research fellow at the Institute for Security Policy of Kiel University in Germany. She was previously a Marie Curie fellow at the German Institute of Global and Area Studies working on Iran’s economic diversification and economic resilience strategies. Additionally, she is a non-resident fellow at Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington, and ISPI in Milan. Over the past decade, she has worked as a consultant for various global clients in both public and private sector. Between 2013 and 2018, she was a senior lecturer in international political economy at Regent’s University London. Prior to that, she was a scholar at the Middle East Institute of the National University of Singapore. She was an associate fellow at the MENA program of the Royal Institute of International Affairs, Chatham House, from 2013-16, and was appointed a member of the Global Agenda Council of the World Economic Forum on the Middle East and North Africa for 2014-2016. Sara has been a fellow at Higher Education Academy in the United Kingdom since 2015. She holds a PhD in Arab and Islamic studies from Exeter University, an MSc in economic development in emerging markets from the University of Reading, and speaks Persian, English, German, and Arabic. Her current research interests are political economy, security and foreign policy of MENA, Iran, Information Wars, critical discourse analysis, and China-MENA relations.
Iran Iran
Sara Bazoobandi is a non-resident research fellow at the Institute for Security Policy of Kiel University in Germany. She was previously a Marie Curie fellow at the German Institute of Global and Area Studies working on Iran’s economic diversification and economic resilience strategies. Additionally, she is a non-resident fellow at Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington, and ISPI in Milan. Over the past decade, she has worked as a consultant for various global clients in both public and private sector. Between 2013 and 2018, she was a senior lecturer in international political economy at Regent’s University London. Prior to that, she was a scholar at the Middle East Institute of the National University of Singapore. She was an associate fellow at the MENA program of the Royal Institute of International Affairs, Chatham House, from 2013-16, and was appointed a member of the Global Agenda Council of the World Economic Forum on the Middle East and North Africa for 2014-2016. Sara has been a fellow at Higher Education Academy in the United Kingdom since 2015. She holds a PhD in Arab and Islamic studies from Exeter University, an MSc in economic development in emerging markets from the University of Reading, and speaks Persian, English, German, and Arabic. Her current research interests are political economy, security and foreign policy of MENA, Iran, Information Wars, critical discourse analysis, and China-MENA relations.
Wydiane Djaidi
Co-Chair
Morocco Morocco
Wydiane Djaidi is a Moroccan lawyer, born and raised in Casablanca. She is specialized in international public law and international business law and has several years of experience working for the United Nations (UN). She is admitted to the Casablanca Bar Association and holds a Master of Laws in International Business Law at the University of Brussels (ULB) and a Master of Laws in International Public Law and Transnational Crimes at the University for Peace (university mandated by the United Nations).
Wydiane has worked for the United Nations for several years in Turin (Italy) and in the UN headquarters in Vienna (Austria), where she worked on international law and transnational criminal matters. While working at the UN headquarters in Vienna, her work mainly focused on working with governments and other relevant stakeholders for the implementation of the UN Convention against transnational organized crimes (Palermo Convention). Wydiane also supported the elaboration of several UN reports that are currently publicly available, including the UN toolkit to support member states in the elaboration of high impact strategies against organized crime. Wydiane recently moved back to the Kingdom
Morocco Morocco
Wydiane Djaidi is a Moroccan lawyer, born and raised in Casablanca. She is specialized in international public law and international business law and has several years of experience working for the United Nations (UN). She is admitted to the Casablanca Bar Association and holds a Master of Laws in International Business Law at the University of Brussels (ULB) and a Master of Laws in International Public Law and Transnational Crimes at the University for Peace (university mandated by the United Nations).
Wydiane has worked for the United Nations for several years in Turin (Italy) and in the UN headquarters in Vienna (Austria), where she worked on international law and transnational criminal matters. While working at the UN headquarters in Vienna, her work mainly focused on working with governments and other relevant stakeholders for the implementation of the UN Convention against transnational organized crimes (Palermo Convention). Wydiane also supported the elaboration of several UN reports that are currently publicly available, including the UN toolkit to support member states in the elaboration of high impact strategies against organized crime. Wydiane recently moved back to the Kingdom
Wydiane Djaidi
Co-Chair
<span
<span
Co-Chair
Morocco Morocco
Wydiane Djaidi is a Moroccan lawyer, born and raised in Casablanca. She is specialized in international public law and international business law and has several years of experience working for the United Nations (UN). She is admitted to the Casablanca Bar Association and holds a Master of Laws in International Business Law at the University of Brussels (ULB) and a Master of Laws in International Public Law and Transnational Crimes at the University for Peace (university mandated by the United Nations).
Wydiane has worked for the United Nations for several years in Turin (Italy) and in the UN headquarters in Vienna (Austria), where she worked on international law and transnational criminal matters. While working at the UN headquarters in Vienna, her work mainly focused on working with governments and other relevant stakeholders for the implementation of the UN Convention against transnational organized crimes (Palermo Convention). Wydiane also supported the elaboration of several UN reports that are currently publicly available, including the UN toolkit to support member states in the elaboration of high impact strategies against organized crime. Wydiane recently moved back to the Kingdom of Morocco and is currently practicing as a lawyer as part of Dilar Lakhelifi Law firm, a law firm with over 30 years of presence in Casablanca. Her work in the firm focuses, among others, on business law and international law matters.
Wydiane is fluent in Arabic, French and English and has also a basic knowledge of Italian and Spanish.
Morocco Morocco
Wydiane Djaidi is a Moroccan lawyer, born and raised in Casablanca. She is specialized in international public law and international business law and has several years of experience working for the United Nations (UN). She is admitted to the Casablanca Bar Association and holds a Master of Laws in International Business Law at the University of Brussels (ULB) and a Master of Laws in International Public Law and Transnational Crimes at the University for Peace (university mandated by the United Nations).
Wydiane has worked for the United Nations for several years in Turin (Italy) and in the UN headquarters in Vienna (Austria), where she worked on international law and transnational criminal matters. While working at the UN headquarters in Vienna, her work mainly focused on working with governments and other relevant stakeholders for the implementation of the UN Convention against transnational organized crimes (Palermo Convention). Wydiane also supported the elaboration of several UN reports that are currently publicly available, including the UN toolkit to support member states in the elaboration of high impact strategies against organized crime. Wydiane recently moved back to the Kingdom of Morocco and is currently practicing as a lawyer as part of Dilar Lakhelifi Law firm, a law firm with over 30 years of presence in Casablanca. Her work in the firm focuses, among others, on business law and international law matters.
Wydiane is fluent in Arabic, French and English and has also a basic knowledge of Italian and Spanish.
Co-Chair
Co-Chair
Morocco Morocco
Wydiane Djaidi is a Moroccan lawyer, born and raised in Casablanca. She is specialized in international public law and international business law and has several years of experience working for the United Nations (UN). She is admitted to the Casablanca Bar Association and holds a Master of Laws in International Business Law at the University of Brussels (ULB) and a Master of Laws in International Public Law and Transnational Crimes at the University for Peace (university mandated by the United Nations).
Wydiane has worked for the United Nations for several years in Turin (Italy) and in the UN headquarters in Vienna (Austria), where she worked on international law and transnational criminal matters. While working at the UN headquarters in Vienna, her work mainly focused on working with governments and other relevant stakeholders for the implementation of the UN Convention against transnational organized crimes (Palermo Convention). Wydiane also supported the elaboration of several UN reports that are currently publicly available, including the UN toolkit to support member states in the elaboration of high impact strategies against organized crime. Wydiane recently moved back to the Kingdom of Morocco and is currently practicing as a lawyer as part of Dilar Lakhelifi Law firm, a law firm with over 30 years of presence in Casablanca. Her work in the firm focuses, among others, on business law and international law matters.
Wydiane is fluent in Arabic, French and English and has also a basic knowledge of Italian and Spanish.
Morocco Morocco
Wydiane Djaidi is a Moroccan lawyer, born and raised in Casablanca. She is specialized in international public law and international business law and has several years of experience working for the United Nations (UN). She is admitted to the Casablanca Bar Association and holds a Master of Laws in International Business Law at the University of Brussels (ULB) and a Master of Laws in International Public Law and Transnational Crimes at the University for Peace (university mandated by the United Nations).
Wydiane has worked for the United Nations for several years in Turin (Italy) and in the UN headquarters in Vienna (Austria), where she worked on international law and transnational criminal matters. While working at the UN headquarters in Vienna, her work mainly focused on working with governments and other relevant stakeholders for the implementation of the UN Convention against transnational organized crimes (Palermo Convention). Wydiane also supported the elaboration of several UN reports that are currently publicly available, including the UN toolkit to support member states in the elaboration of high impact strategies against organized crime. Wydiane recently moved back to the Kingdom of Morocco and is currently practicing as a lawyer as part of Dilar Lakhelifi Law firm, a law firm with over 30 years of presence in Casablanca. Her work in the firm focuses, among others, on business law and international law matters.
Wydiane is fluent in Arabic, French and English and has also a basic knowledge of Italian and Spanish.
Nidal Azhary
Co-Chair
Morocco Morocco
Strategist and Public Policy expert with over a decade of experience in Lobbying, Law, Business and Governance across North Africa, the Pan-African region, and the Mediterranean. Currently serving as Executive Director of L’Union Féministe Libre (UFL), leading efforts to adress gender-based violence and driving Institutional and Policy advocacy initiatives. Extensive experience working with International Institutions, the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), and the African Commission on Human and Peoples Rights, engaging governments, political stakeholders, and the private sector to advance policy reforms and corporate accountability. Collaborated with Deutsche Bank and international NGOs to develop corporate human rights frameworks, in addition to learnings from the Corporate Equality Index. An alumna of several regional and international leadership programs, serving on the boards of three regional initiatives and advising a fund supporting 400+ NGOs. Academic background includes a Law degree specializing in International Humanitarian Law, with additional studies in political science, governance, business, and international intelligence.
Morocco Morocco
Strategist and Public Policy expert with over a decade of experience in Lobbying, Law, Business and Governance across North Africa, the Pan-African region, and the Mediterranean. Currently serving as Executive Director of L’Union Féministe Libre (UFL), leading efforts to adress gender-based violence and driving Institutional and Policy advocacy initiatives. Extensive experience working with International Institutions, the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), and the African Commission on Human and Peoples Rights, engaging governments, political stakeholders, and the private sector to advance policy reforms and corporate accountability. Collaborated with Deutsche Bank and international NGOs to develop corporate human rights frameworks, in addition to learnings from the Corporate Equality Index. An alumna of several regional and international leadership programs, serving on the boards of three regional initiatives and advising a fund supporting 400+ NGOs. Academic background includes a Law degree specializing in International Humanitarian Law, with additional studies in political science, governance, business, and international intelligence.
Nidal Azhary
Co-Chair
<span
<span
Co-Chair
Morocco Morocco
Strategist and Public Policy expert with over a decade of experience in Lobbying, Law, Business and Governance across North Africa, the Pan-African region, and the Mediterranean. Currently serving as Executive Director of L’Union Féministe Libre (UFL), leading efforts to adress gender-based violence and driving Institutional and Policy advocacy initiatives. Extensive experience working with International Institutions, the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), and the African Commission on Human and Peoples Rights, engaging governments, political stakeholders, and the private sector to advance policy reforms and corporate accountability. Collaborated with Deutsche Bank and international NGOs to develop corporate human rights frameworks, in addition to learnings from the Corporate Equality Index. An alumna of several regional and international leadership programs, serving on the boards of three regional initiatives and advising a fund supporting 400+ NGOs. Academic background includes a Law degree specializing in International Humanitarian Law, with additional studies in political science, governance, business, and international intelligence.
Morocco Morocco
Strategist and Public Policy expert with over a decade of experience in Lobbying, Law, Business and Governance across North Africa, the Pan-African region, and the Mediterranean. Currently serving as Executive Director of L’Union Féministe Libre (UFL), leading efforts to adress gender-based violence and driving Institutional and Policy advocacy initiatives. Extensive experience working with International Institutions, the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), and the African Commission on Human and Peoples Rights, engaging governments, political stakeholders, and the private sector to advance policy reforms and corporate accountability. Collaborated with Deutsche Bank and international NGOs to develop corporate human rights frameworks, in addition to learnings from the Corporate Equality Index. An alumna of several regional and international leadership programs, serving on the boards of three regional initiatives and advising a fund supporting 400+ NGOs. Academic background includes a Law degree specializing in International Humanitarian Law, with additional studies in political science, governance, business, and international intelligence.
Co-Chair
Co-Chair
Morocco Morocco
Strategist and Public Policy expert with over a decade of experience in Lobbying, Law, Business and Governance across North Africa, the Pan-African region, and the Mediterranean. Currently serving as Executive Director of L’Union Féministe Libre (UFL), leading efforts to adress gender-based violence and driving Institutional and Policy advocacy initiatives. Extensive experience working with International Institutions, the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), and the African Commission on Human and Peoples Rights, engaging governments, political stakeholders, and the private sector to advance policy reforms and corporate accountability. Collaborated with Deutsche Bank and international NGOs to develop corporate human rights frameworks, in addition to learnings from the Corporate Equality Index. An alumna of several regional and international leadership programs, serving on the boards of three regional initiatives and advising a fund supporting 400+ NGOs. Academic background includes a Law degree specializing in International Humanitarian Law, with additional studies in political science, governance, business, and international intelligence.
Morocco Morocco
Strategist and Public Policy expert with over a decade of experience in Lobbying, Law, Business and Governance across North Africa, the Pan-African region, and the Mediterranean. Currently serving as Executive Director of L’Union Féministe Libre (UFL), leading efforts to adress gender-based violence and driving Institutional and Policy advocacy initiatives. Extensive experience working with International Institutions, the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), and the African Commission on Human and Peoples Rights, engaging governments, political stakeholders, and the private sector to advance policy reforms and corporate accountability. Collaborated with Deutsche Bank and international NGOs to develop corporate human rights frameworks, in addition to learnings from the Corporate Equality Index. An alumna of several regional and international leadership programs, serving on the boards of three regional initiatives and advising a fund supporting 400+ NGOs. Academic background includes a Law degree specializing in International Humanitarian Law, with additional studies in political science, governance, business, and international intelligence.
Dr. Tahani Abu Daqqa
Palestine Palestine
CEO and founder of GLP - Gaza Life Power for Renewable Energy company
• Board member and Volunteer with Damour for Community Development working in environmental projects.
• Board of Trustees member of Gaza University
• Board of Directors and founder of CFTA - Culture and Thought Association • Former Minister of youth and sport and Former minister of culture
• Founder and board member of Arab Renewable Energy Commission.
More than 30 years of experience in Development Programs at all levels, acquired experience and educational background to enable her to conduct Capacity Building programs at all levels of implementation. A mix between Public Sector and Non-Governmental sector experience that enlightened my ability become an expert in Development and Capacity building programs in Developing countries. More than 10 years of experience in renewable Energy and green economy. Since I am a feminist, I have contributed in founding and implementation of many of the organization and projects that contribute to the women empowerment socially, economically, and politically Worked since 1983 in the women's work committee and I had a lot of struggles for the women rights
CEO and founder of GLP - Gaza Life Power for Renewable Energy company
• Board member and Volunteer with Damour for Community Development working in environmental projects.
• Board of Trustees member of Gaza University
• Board of Directors and founder of CFTA - Culture and Thought Association • Former Minister of youth and sport and Former minister of culture
• Founder and board member of Arab Renewable Energy Commission.
More than 30 years of experience in Development Programs at all levels, acquired experience and educational background to enable her to conduct Capacity Building programs at all levels of implementation. A mix between Public Sector and Non-Governmental sector experience that enlightened my ability become an expert in Development and Capacity building programs in Developing countries. More than 10 years of experience in renewable Energy and green economy. Since I am a feminist, I have contributed in founding and implementation of many of the organization and projects that contribute to the women empowerment socially, economically, and politically Worked since 1983 in the women's work committee and I had a lot of struggles for the women rights
Dr. Tahani Abu Daqqa
Palestine Palestine
Palestine
Palestine
CEO and founder of GLP - Gaza Life Power for Renewable Energy company
• Board member and Volunteer with Damour for Community Development working in environmental projects.
• Board of Trustees member of Gaza University
• Board of Directors and founder of CFTA - Culture and Thought Association • Former Minister of youth and sport and Former minister of culture
• Founder and board member of Arab Renewable Energy Commission.
More than 30 years of experience in Development Programs at all levels, acquired experience and educational background to enable her to conduct Capacity Building programs at all levels of implementation. A mix between Public Sector and Non-Governmental sector experience that enlightened my ability become an expert in Development and Capacity building programs in Developing countries. More than 10 years of experience in renewable Energy and green economy. Since I am a feminist, I have contributed in founding and implementation of many of the organization and projects that contribute to the women empowerment socially, economically, and politically Worked since 1983 in the women's work committee and I had a lot of struggles for the women rights and women Leader in society. i have been involved in many local, regional and international committees in order to activate the international laws on women rights, peace conflict resolution, as well as renewable Energy, green economy and environmental Issus
CEO and founder of GLP - Gaza Life Power for Renewable Energy company
• Board member and Volunteer with Damour for Community Development working in environmental projects.
• Board of Trustees member of Gaza University
• Board of Directors and founder of CFTA - Culture and Thought Association • Former Minister of youth and sport and Former minister of culture
• Founder and board member of Arab Renewable Energy Commission.
More than 30 years of experience in Development Programs at all levels, acquired experience and educational background to enable her to conduct Capacity Building programs at all levels of implementation. A mix between Public Sector and Non-Governmental sector experience that enlightened my ability become an expert in Development and Capacity building programs in Developing countries. More than 10 years of experience in renewable Energy and green economy. Since I am a feminist, I have contributed in founding and implementation of many of the organization and projects that contribute to the women empowerment socially, economically, and politically Worked since 1983 in the women's work committee and I had a lot of struggles for the women rights and women Leader in society. i have been involved in many local, regional and international committees in order to activate the international laws on women rights, peace conflict resolution, as well as renewable Energy, green economy and environmental Issus
Palestine Palestine
Palestine
Palestine
CEO and founder of GLP - Gaza Life Power for Renewable Energy company
• Board member and Volunteer with Damour for Community Development working in environmental projects.
• Board of Trustees member of Gaza University
• Board of Directors and founder of CFTA - Culture and Thought Association • Former Minister of youth and sport and Former minister of culture
• Founder and board member of Arab Renewable Energy Commission.
More than 30 years of experience in Development Programs at all levels, acquired experience and educational background to enable her to conduct Capacity Building programs at all levels of implementation. A mix between Public Sector and Non-Governmental sector experience that enlightened my ability become an expert in Development and Capacity building programs in Developing countries. More than 10 years of experience in renewable Energy and green economy. Since I am a feminist, I have contributed in founding and implementation of many of the organization and projects that contribute to the women empowerment socially, economically, and politically Worked since 1983 in the women's work committee and I had a lot of struggles for the women rights and women Leader in society. i have been involved in many local, regional and international committees in order to activate the international laws on women rights, peace conflict resolution, as well as renewable Energy, green economy and environmental Issus
CEO and founder of GLP - Gaza Life Power for Renewable Energy company
• Board member and Volunteer with Damour for Community Development working in environmental projects.
• Board of Trustees member of Gaza University
• Board of Directors and founder of CFTA - Culture and Thought Association • Former Minister of youth and sport and Former minister of culture
• Founder and board member of Arab Renewable Energy Commission.
More than 30 years of experience in Development Programs at all levels, acquired experience and educational background to enable her to conduct Capacity Building programs at all levels of implementation. A mix between Public Sector and Non-Governmental sector experience that enlightened my ability become an expert in Development and Capacity building programs in Developing countries. More than 10 years of experience in renewable Energy and green economy. Since I am a feminist, I have contributed in founding and implementation of many of the organization and projects that contribute to the women empowerment socially, economically, and politically Worked since 1983 in the women's work committee and I had a lot of struggles for the women rights and women Leader in society. i have been involved in many local, regional and international committees in order to activate the international laws on women rights, peace conflict resolution, as well as renewable Energy, green economy and environmental Issus
Osnat Lubrani
Israel, USA Israel, USA
Osnat Lubrani served at the United Nations for 26 years in senior positions, including as UN Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator in Ukraine (2018 - 2022), Fiji, and nine other Pacific Small Island States (2013-2018), and Kosovo (2009-2013). She also held several positions as a UNDP Resident Representative and as UN Women Director. As an international development practitioner, she holds expertise in human rights, gender equality, transitions: conflict to peace, humanitarian to recovery, and sustainable development/resilience.Osnat Lubrani holds a Masters Degree in International and Public Affairs specializing in human rights, humanitarian affairs, and economic and political development (Columbia University 1997), a Masters of Fine Arts, Tisch Graduate School for Film and Television Production (New York University 1989), and a Bachelor of Arts, majored in Sociology & Anthropology and History of Africa (Hebrew University 1983). She is a Member of Diplomats Without Borders, and an Associate Researcher with Austrian Institute of International Affairs (OIIP)
Osnat Lubrani served at the United Nations for 26 years in senior positions, including as UN Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator in Ukraine (2018 - 2022), Fiji, and nine other Pacific Small Island States (2013-2018), and Kosovo (2009-2013). She also held several positions as a UNDP Resident Representative and as UN Women Director. As an international development practitioner, she holds expertise in human rights, gender equality, transitions: conflict to peace, humanitarian to recovery, and sustainable development/resilience.Osnat Lubrani holds a Masters Degree in International and Public Affairs specializing in human rights, humanitarian affairs, and economic and political development (Columbia University 1997), a Masters of Fine Arts, Tisch Graduate School for Film and Television Production (New York University 1989), and a Bachelor of Arts, majored in Sociology & Anthropology and History of Africa (Hebrew University 1983). She is a Member of Diplomats Without Borders, and an Associate Researcher with Austrian Institute of International Affairs (OIIP)
Osnat Lubrani
Israel, USA Israel,
Israel, USA
Israel, USA
Osnat Lubrani served at the United Nations for 26 years in senior positions, including as UN Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator in Ukraine (2018 - 2022), Fiji, and nine other Pacific Small Island States (2013-2018), and Kosovo (2009-2013). She also held several positions as a UNDP Resident Representative and as UN Women Director. As an international development practitioner, she holds expertise in human rights, gender equality, transitions: conflict to peace, humanitarian to recovery, and sustainable development/resilience.Osnat Lubrani holds a Masters Degree in International and Public Affairs specializing in human rights, humanitarian affairs, and economic and political development (Columbia University 1997), a Masters of Fine Arts, Tisch Graduate School for Film and Television Production (New York University 1989), and a Bachelor of Arts, majored in Sociology & Anthropology and History of Africa (Hebrew University 1983). She is a Member of Diplomats Without Borders, and an Associate Researcher with Austrian Institute of International Affairs (OIIP)
Osnat Lubrani served at the United Nations for 26 years in senior positions, including as UN Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator in Ukraine (2018 - 2022), Fiji, and nine other Pacific Small Island States (2013-2018), and Kosovo (2009-2013). She also held several positions as a UNDP Resident Representative and as UN Women Director. As an international development practitioner, she holds expertise in human rights, gender equality, transitions: conflict to peace, humanitarian to recovery, and sustainable development/resilience.Osnat Lubrani holds a Masters Degree in International and Public Affairs specializing in human rights, humanitarian affairs, and economic and political development (Columbia University 1997), a Masters of Fine Arts, Tisch Graduate School for Film and Television Production (New York University 1989), and a Bachelor of Arts, majored in Sociology & Anthropology and History of Africa (Hebrew University 1983). She is a Member of Diplomats Without Borders, and an Associate Researcher with Austrian Institute of International Affairs (OIIP)
Israel, USA <span
Israel, USA
Israel, USA
Osnat Lubrani served at the United Nations for 26 years in senior positions, including as UN Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator in Ukraine (2018 - 2022), Fiji, and nine other Pacific Small Island States (2013-2018), and Kosovo (2009-2013). She also held several positions as a UNDP Resident Representative and as UN Women Director. As an international development practitioner, she holds expertise in human rights, gender equality, transitions: conflict to peace, humanitarian to recovery, and sustainable development/resilience.Osnat Lubrani holds a Masters Degree in International and Public Affairs specializing in human rights, humanitarian affairs, and economic and political development (Columbia University 1997), a Masters of Fine Arts, Tisch Graduate School for Film and Television Production (New York University 1989), and a Bachelor of Arts, majored in Sociology & Anthropology and History of Africa (Hebrew University 1983). She is a Member of Diplomats Without Borders, and an Associate Researcher with Austrian Institute of International Affairs (OIIP)
Osnat Lubrani served at the United Nations for 26 years in senior positions, including as UN Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator in Ukraine (2018 - 2022), Fiji, and nine other Pacific Small Island States (2013-2018), and Kosovo (2009-2013). She also held several positions as a UNDP Resident Representative and as UN Women Director. As an international development practitioner, she holds expertise in human rights, gender equality, transitions: conflict to peace, humanitarian to recovery, and sustainable development/resilience.Osnat Lubrani holds a Masters Degree in International and Public Affairs specializing in human rights, humanitarian affairs, and economic and political development (Columbia University 1997), a Masters of Fine Arts, Tisch Graduate School for Film and Television Production (New York University 1989), and a Bachelor of Arts, majored in Sociology & Anthropology and History of Africa (Hebrew University 1983). She is a Member of Diplomats Without Borders, and an Associate Researcher with Austrian Institute of International Affairs (OIIP)
Wisam Ziadeh
Palestine Palestine
Wisam Ziadeh was born and raised in Shu’fat, a Palestinian Arab neighborhood in East Jerusalem. She studied English Literature and Journalism at Bethlehem University. A mother of two, she holds an Israeli ID, while her husband and children have Israeli passports, navigating the complexities of identity and mobility in the region. For over a decade, Wisam has been dedicated to peace-building and cross-border initiatives. In 2010, she worked at the Peace Works Foundation as the Project Manager of the International Education Program in the West Bank. She is a leader and advocate for social justice, peace, and gender equity, with expertise in program development, management, peace-building, and gender programs. Wisam is an alumna of the U.S. Consulate's exchange program, having participated in Women’s Role in Peace and Security program in the United States in 2019. She has developed several programs focused on women’s empowerment and community development and has represented Palestine in numerous international conferences on women’s rights and empowerment. In 2015, she led Women’s Empowerment Projects, contributing to joint efforts to promote peace and end the conflict both locally and internationally. In 2022, she founded Takadom for Peace, where she serves as
Wisam Ziadeh was born and raised in Shu’fat, a Palestinian Arab neighborhood in East Jerusalem. She studied English Literature and Journalism at Bethlehem University. A mother of two, she holds an Israeli ID, while her husband and children have Israeli passports, navigating the complexities of identity and mobility in the region. For over a decade, Wisam has been dedicated to peace-building and cross-border initiatives. In 2010, she worked at the Peace Works Foundation as the Project Manager of the International Education Program in the West Bank. She is a leader and advocate for social justice, peace, and gender equity, with expertise in program development, management, peace-building, and gender programs. Wisam is an alumna of the U.S. Consulate's exchange program, having participated in Women’s Role in Peace and Security program in the United States in 2019. She has developed several programs focused on women’s empowerment and community development and has represented Palestine in numerous international conferences on women’s rights and empowerment. In 2015, she led Women’s Empowerment Projects, contributing to joint efforts to promote peace and end the conflict both locally and internationally. In 2022, she founded Takadom for Peace, where she serves as
Wisam Ziadeh
Palestine Palestine
Palestine
Palestine
Wisam Ziadeh was born and raised in Shu’fat, a Palestinian Arab neighborhood in East Jerusalem. She studied English Literature and Journalism at Bethlehem University. A mother of two, she holds an Israeli ID, while her husband and children have Israeli passports, navigating the complexities of identity and mobility in the region. For over a decade, Wisam has been dedicated to peace-building and cross-border initiatives. In 2010, she worked at the Peace Works Foundation as the Project Manager of the International Education Program in the West Bank. She is a leader and advocate for social justice, peace, and gender equity, with expertise in program development, management, peace-building, and gender programs. Wisam is an alumna of the U.S. Consulate's exchange program, having participated in Women’s Role in Peace and Security program in the United States in 2019. She has developed several programs focused on women’s empowerment and community development and has represented Palestine in numerous international conferences on women’s rights and empowerment. In 2015, she led Women’s Empowerment Projects, contributing to joint efforts to promote peace and end the conflict both locally and internationally. In 2022, she founded Takadom for Peace, where she serves as CEO. Through Takadom, Wisam focuses on youth and women’s empowerment, advocating for a just and comprehensive peace. The organization equips young leaders with practical and scientific skills, fosters dialogue and critical thinking, and enables them to represent themselves and their communities effectively. Takadom prioritizes societal change, particularly for marginalized groups, by expanding awareness and promoting the role of women in social transformation. Being a Palestinian woman and mother comes with significant societal restrictions, limiting mobility and access to opportunities. Despite these challenges, Wisam continues to push for change, ensuring that Palestinian voices—especially those of women and youth—are heard. Her passion for peace-building has also influenced her daughter, who has participated in international peace programs alongside Palestinian and Israeli students. Facing similar societal pressures, her daughter remains committed to advocating for a peaceful and just future. Through her work, Wisam remains dedicated to fostering hope, constructive dialogue, and a better future for the next generation.
Wisam Ziadeh was born and raised in Shu’fat, a Palestinian Arab neighborhood in East Jerusalem. She studied English Literature and Journalism at Bethlehem University. A mother of two, she holds an Israeli ID, while her husband and children have Israeli passports, navigating the complexities of identity and mobility in the region. For over a decade, Wisam has been dedicated to peace-building and cross-border initiatives. In 2010, she worked at the Peace Works Foundation as the Project Manager of the International Education Program in the West Bank. She is a leader and advocate for social justice, peace, and gender equity, with expertise in program development, management, peace-building, and gender programs. Wisam is an alumna of the U.S. Consulate's exchange program, having participated in Women’s Role in Peace and Security program in the United States in 2019. She has developed several programs focused on women’s empowerment and community development and has represented Palestine in numerous international conferences on women’s rights and empowerment. In 2015, she led Women’s Empowerment Projects, contributing to joint efforts to promote peace and end the conflict both locally and internationally. In 2022, she founded Takadom for Peace, where she serves as CEO. Through Takadom, Wisam focuses on youth and women’s empowerment, advocating for a just and comprehensive peace. The organization equips young leaders with practical and scientific skills, fosters dialogue and critical thinking, and enables them to represent themselves and their communities effectively. Takadom prioritizes societal change, particularly for marginalized groups, by expanding awareness and promoting the role of women in social transformation. Being a Palestinian woman and mother comes with significant societal restrictions, limiting mobility and access to opportunities. Despite these challenges, Wisam continues to push for change, ensuring that Palestinian voices—especially those of women and youth—are heard. Her passion for peace-building has also influenced her daughter, who has participated in international peace programs alongside Palestinian and Israeli students. Facing similar societal pressures, her daughter remains committed to advocating for a peaceful and just future. Through her work, Wisam remains dedicated to fostering hope, constructive dialogue, and a better future for the next generation.
Palestine Palestine
Palestine
Palestine
Wisam Ziadeh was born and raised in Shu’fat, a Palestinian Arab neighborhood in East Jerusalem. She studied English Literature and Journalism at Bethlehem University. A mother of two, she holds an Israeli ID, while her husband and children have Israeli passports, navigating the complexities of identity and mobility in the region. For over a decade, Wisam has been dedicated to peace-building and cross-border initiatives. In 2010, she worked at the Peace Works Foundation as the Project Manager of the International Education Program in the West Bank. She is a leader and advocate for social justice, peace, and gender equity, with expertise in program development, management, peace-building, and gender programs. Wisam is an alumna of the U.S. Consulate's exchange program, having participated in Women’s Role in Peace and Security program in the United States in 2019. She has developed several programs focused on women’s empowerment and community development and has represented Palestine in numerous international conferences on women’s rights and empowerment. In 2015, she led Women’s Empowerment Projects, contributing to joint efforts to promote peace and end the conflict both locally and internationally. In 2022, she founded Takadom for Peace, where she serves as CEO. Through Takadom, Wisam focuses on youth and women’s empowerment, advocating for a just and comprehensive peace. The organization equips young leaders with practical and scientific skills, fosters dialogue and critical thinking, and enables them to represent themselves and their communities effectively. Takadom prioritizes societal change, particularly for marginalized groups, by expanding awareness and promoting the role of women in social transformation. Being a Palestinian woman and mother comes with significant societal restrictions, limiting mobility and access to opportunities. Despite these challenges, Wisam continues to push for change, ensuring that Palestinian voices—especially those of women and youth—are heard. Her passion for peace-building has also influenced her daughter, who has participated in international peace programs alongside Palestinian and Israeli students. Facing similar societal pressures, her daughter remains committed to advocating for a peaceful and just future. Through her work, Wisam remains dedicated to fostering hope, constructive dialogue, and a better future for the next generation.
Wisam Ziadeh was born and raised in Shu’fat, a Palestinian Arab neighborhood in East Jerusalem. She studied English Literature and Journalism at Bethlehem University. A mother of two, she holds an Israeli ID, while her husband and children have Israeli passports, navigating the complexities of identity and mobility in the region. For over a decade, Wisam has been dedicated to peace-building and cross-border initiatives. In 2010, she worked at the Peace Works Foundation as the Project Manager of the International Education Program in the West Bank. She is a leader and advocate for social justice, peace, and gender equity, with expertise in program development, management, peace-building, and gender programs. Wisam is an alumna of the U.S. Consulate's exchange program, having participated in Women’s Role in Peace and Security program in the United States in 2019. She has developed several programs focused on women’s empowerment and community development and has represented Palestine in numerous international conferences on women’s rights and empowerment. In 2015, she led Women’s Empowerment Projects, contributing to joint efforts to promote peace and end the conflict both locally and internationally. In 2022, she founded Takadom for Peace, where she serves as CEO. Through Takadom, Wisam focuses on youth and women’s empowerment, advocating for a just and comprehensive peace. The organization equips young leaders with practical and scientific skills, fosters dialogue and critical thinking, and enables them to represent themselves and their communities effectively. Takadom prioritizes societal change, particularly for marginalized groups, by expanding awareness and promoting the role of women in social transformation. Being a Palestinian woman and mother comes with significant societal restrictions, limiting mobility and access to opportunities. Despite these challenges, Wisam continues to push for change, ensuring that Palestinian voices—especially those of women and youth—are heard. Her passion for peace-building has also influenced her daughter, who has participated in international peace programs alongside Palestinian and Israeli students. Facing similar societal pressures, her daughter remains committed to advocating for a peaceful and just future. Through her work, Wisam remains dedicated to fostering hope, constructive dialogue, and a better future for the next generation.
Nivine Sandouka
Palestine Palestine
Nivine Sandouka is a leader aspiring to achieve social justice, peace and gender equity. She is an expert in the field of program development, management, peace building, gender issues and political affairs. Currently, she works with the Alliance for Middle East Peace as the Regional Director. In the past, she worked with the German Association for Development Cooperation – Agiamondo. She also runs a grassroots-based initiative called ‘Judi – From Me to You’ that aims to connect women together, and volunteers in several civil society organizations. To pursue her passion, she is the chairwoman of a newly established NGO called ‘Our Rights’ in Jerusalem, focusing on civic and political rights of Palestinians in East Jerusalem, especially women. She was identified by the U.S. State Department in 2014 as a young leader and participated in the prestigious ‘International Visitor Leadership Program’ on the theme of conflict resolution, and she now serves as an alumni leader. Throughout her career, Nivine developed several programs that aim to empower women and support community development, working with international organizations such as Oxfam and CARE International. She also served as Co-Director of IPCRI – Israel Palestine Creative
Nivine Sandouka is a leader aspiring to achieve social justice, peace and gender equity. She is an expert in the field of program development, management, peace building, gender issues and political affairs. Currently, she works with the Alliance for Middle East Peace as the Regional Director. In the past, she worked with the German Association for Development Cooperation – Agiamondo. She also runs a grassroots-based initiative called ‘Judi – From Me to You’ that aims to connect women together, and volunteers in several civil society organizations. To pursue her passion, she is the chairwoman of a newly established NGO called ‘Our Rights’ in Jerusalem, focusing on civic and political rights of Palestinians in East Jerusalem, especially women. She was identified by the U.S. State Department in 2014 as a young leader and participated in the prestigious ‘International Visitor Leadership Program’ on the theme of conflict resolution, and she now serves as an alumni leader. Throughout her career, Nivine developed several programs that aim to empower women and support community development, working with international organizations such as Oxfam and CARE International. She also served as Co-Director of IPCRI – Israel Palestine Creative
Nivine Sandouka
Palestine Palestine
Palestine
Palestine
Nivine Sandouka is a leader aspiring to achieve social justice, peace and gender equity. She is an expert in the field of program development, management, peace building, gender issues and political affairs. Currently, she works with the Alliance for Middle East Peace as the Regional Director. In the past, she worked with the German Association for Development Cooperation – Agiamondo. She also runs a grassroots-based initiative called ‘Judi – From Me to You’ that aims to connect women together, and volunteers in several civil society organizations. To pursue her passion, she is the chairwoman of a newly established NGO called ‘Our Rights’ in Jerusalem, focusing on civic and political rights of Palestinians in East Jerusalem, especially women. She was identified by the U.S. State Department in 2014 as a young leader and participated in the prestigious ‘International Visitor Leadership Program’ on the theme of conflict resolution, and she now serves as an alumni leader. Throughout her career, Nivine developed several programs that aim to empower women and support community development, working with international organizations such as Oxfam and CARE International. She also served as Co-Director of IPCRI – Israel Palestine Creative Regional Initiatives. In addition, she currently sits as a board member of the Jerusalem Center for Women, and was a civil society representative on the International Reference Group of the World Council of Churches. She has participated in several conferences addressing women’s rights in Palestine and attended two institutes on Feminist Transformative Leadership. Nivine holds an MA in Democracy and Human Rights from Birzeit University and has taken numerous trainings in peacebuilding, gender, program management, accountability, and advocacy. She has also been invited to speak at several events including the annual J Street Conference (2017 and 2018), the Accord 1325 conference at the German Federal Foreign Office, among others.
Nivine Sandouka is a leader aspiring to achieve social justice, peace and gender equity. She is an expert in the field of program development, management, peace building, gender issues and political affairs. Currently, she works with the Alliance for Middle East Peace as the Regional Director. In the past, she worked with the German Association for Development Cooperation – Agiamondo. She also runs a grassroots-based initiative called ‘Judi – From Me to You’ that aims to connect women together, and volunteers in several civil society organizations. To pursue her passion, she is the chairwoman of a newly established NGO called ‘Our Rights’ in Jerusalem, focusing on civic and political rights of Palestinians in East Jerusalem, especially women. She was identified by the U.S. State Department in 2014 as a young leader and participated in the prestigious ‘International Visitor Leadership Program’ on the theme of conflict resolution, and she now serves as an alumni leader. Throughout her career, Nivine developed several programs that aim to empower women and support community development, working with international organizations such as Oxfam and CARE International. She also served as Co-Director of IPCRI – Israel Palestine Creative Regional Initiatives. In addition, she currently sits as a board member of the Jerusalem Center for Women, and was a civil society representative on the International Reference Group of the World Council of Churches. She has participated in several conferences addressing women’s rights in Palestine and attended two institutes on Feminist Transformative Leadership. Nivine holds an MA in Democracy and Human Rights from Birzeit University and has taken numerous trainings in peacebuilding, gender, program management, accountability, and advocacy. She has also been invited to speak at several events including the annual J Street Conference (2017 and 2018), the Accord 1325 conference at the German Federal Foreign Office, among others.
Palestine
Palestine
Palestine
Nivine Sandouka is a leader aspiring to achieve social justice, peace and gender equity. She is an expert in the field of program development, management, peace building, gender issues and political affairs. Currently, she works with the Alliance for Middle East Peace as the Regional Director. In the past, she worked with the German Association for Development Cooperation – Agiamondo. She also runs a grassroots-based initiative called ‘Judi – From Me to You’ that aims to connect women together, and volunteers in several civil society organizations. To pursue her passion, she is the chairwoman of a newly established NGO called ‘Our Rights’ in Jerusalem, focusing on civic and political rights of Palestinians in East Jerusalem, especially women. She was identified by the U.S. State Department in 2014 as a young leader and participated in the prestigious ‘International Visitor Leadership Program’ on the theme of conflict resolution, and she now serves as an alumni leader. Throughout her career, Nivine developed several programs that aim to empower women and support community development, working with international organizations such as Oxfam and CARE International. She also served as Co-Director of IPCRI – Israel Palestine Creative Regional Initiatives. In addition, she currently sits as a board member of the Jerusalem Center for Women, and was a civil society representative on the International Reference Group of the World Council of Churches. She has participated in several conferences addressing women’s rights in Palestine and attended two institutes on Feminist Transformative Leadership. Nivine holds an MA in Democracy and Human Rights from Birzeit University and has taken numerous trainings in peacebuilding, gender, program management, accountability, and advocacy. She has also been invited to speak at several events including the annual J Street Conference (2017 and 2018), the Accord 1325 conference at the German Federal Foreign Office, among others.
Nivine Sandouka is a leader aspiring to achieve social justice, peace and gender equity. She is an expert in the field of program development, management, peace building, gender issues and political affairs. Currently, she works with the Alliance for Middle East Peace as the Regional Director. In the past, she worked with the German Association for Development Cooperation – Agiamondo. She also runs a grassroots-based initiative called ‘Judi – From Me to You’ that aims to connect women together, and volunteers in several civil society organizations. To pursue her passion, she is the chairwoman of a newly established NGO called ‘Our Rights’ in Jerusalem, focusing on civic and political rights of Palestinians in East Jerusalem, especially women. She was identified by the U.S. State Department in 2014 as a young leader and participated in the prestigious ‘International Visitor Leadership Program’ on the theme of conflict resolution, and she now serves as an alumni leader. Throughout her career, Nivine developed several programs that aim to empower women and support community development, working with international organizations such as Oxfam and CARE International. She also served as Co-Director of IPCRI – Israel Palestine Creative Regional Initiatives. In addition, she currently sits as a board member of the Jerusalem Center for Women, and was a civil society representative on the International Reference Group of the World Council of Churches. She has participated in several conferences addressing women’s rights in Palestine and attended two institutes on Feminist Transformative Leadership. Nivine holds an MA in Democracy and Human Rights from Birzeit University and has taken numerous trainings in peacebuilding, gender, program management, accountability, and advocacy. She has also been invited to speak at several events including the annual J Street Conference (2017 and 2018), the Accord 1325 conference at the German Federal Foreign Office, among others.
Dr. Lee Recht, Head of the Food Systems Committee
Israel
Israel
Lee Recht, Head of the Food Systems Committee, Ph.D Vice President of Sustainability, Aleph Farms Lee’s main passion and dedication lies between climate, sustainability and innovation with a personal devotion to promote resilience
Dr. Hassan Heshmat
Iraq, UK
Iraq, UK
Dr. Hasan Heshmat Managing Director of Hydro-C Ltd, Holding BDS University of Baghdad, college of dentistry and MPhil degree from Strathclyde University – Engineering Dept. with several certificates in business management
Dr. Said Alahayne
Morocco
Morocco
Said Alahyane is a research-professor in political science at the
Faculty of Legal, Economic and Social Sciences-Cadi Ayyad University,
Morocco. His research focuses on public policies with a focus on
agricultural policies, food
Ali Faqeeh
Bahrain
Bahrain
Ali Faqeeh is an analyst at the Bahrain Centre for Strategic, International, and Energy Studies (Derasat), as well as a non-resident research fellow at the Atlantic Council in Washington, DC. With a primary
Lisa Moon
USA
USA
Lisa is President & Chief Executive Officer of GFN. Previously, Lisa served as Vice President of Global Agriculture and Food at The Chicago Council on Global Affairs, where she spearheaded a project that
Riad Al Khouri
Jordan
Jordan
Riad al Khouri, a Jordanian based in Amman, is a graduate of l’Ecole internationale de Genève who also holds a BA from the American
University of Beirut, and an MLitt from the University
Shirley Shahar
Israel
Israel
The Co-founder, DANA GLOBAL Shirley’s career has included significant experience in marketing and business development with corporate enterprise, food and agricultural innovation and startups in different sectors.
Alongside her career, Shirley has
Ravit Dinmez Yehezkel
Israel
Israel
Ravit Dinmez Yehezkel, LL.M, EMBA possesses extensive legal knowledge in the public, private and NPO sectors in Israel.
In her previous position Dinmez-Yehezkel was employed by the ministry of Environmental Affairs where
Leehee Goldenberg
Israel
Israel
Leehee is a lawyer and policy professional specializing in energy, infrastructure, climate change, carbon markets and resource governance.
She began her legal career at the Israeli Ministry of Justice, working on UNCLOS, trade
Mustafa Oğuz
Turkey
Turkey
Mustafa Oğuz is an Istanbul-based business consultant specialized in political risk, corporate affairs and policy & strategy development He received his BA degree in International Relations from Istanbul Beylent University in 2003 and
Dr. Shamal Abdulkhaliq Mohammed
Kurdistan (Iraq), UAE
Kurdistan (Iraq), UAE
Dr Shamal Mohammed is an accomplished AgriTech executive with extensive experience in leading innovation research and development and digital transformation in the agricultural industry. Shamal holds a PhD in
Dr. Tareq Abu Hamed
Palestine, Israel
Palestine, Israel
Dr. Tareq Abu Hamed is the Executive Director of the Arava Institute for Environmental Studies. A recognized leader in renewable energy technology and regional cooperation, he launched and led the Institute’s
Maya Jacobs
Israel
Israel
Maya Jacobs is an environmental activist and entrepreneur.
After serving for 10 years as the CEO of the Zalul (“Clear” in Hebrew) and turning the NGO dedicated to the protection of Israel’s seas, streams