Navigating Challenges, Building Connections, and Leading with Purpose
As I reflect on my journey, I’m reminded of how deeply my time at IC has shaped who I am today. It wasn’t just about academics; it was where I developed resilience, adaptability, and a strong sense of purpose. Qualities that have helped me navigate life’s challenges, solve problems, and build a sense of community.
From the age of nine, I spent my summers gaining hands-on experience in the family business. I worked with the servicing teams, developing technical skills in generator maintenance and repair, spent time in the factory learning welding and painting, and eventually joined my father in the office, where I was introduced to the basics of management, including supplier relations, sales, and banking operations. After my father passed away when I was just 12, I found myself stepping into the business much earlier than expected, spending afternoons at the office learning by doing and absorbing everything from operations to decision-making. This early exposure taught me resilience, responsibility, and the value of hands-on learning.
After graduating from IC in 1999, I earned a BA in Finance, I formalized my role by establishing the company’s Quality Assurance department and leading the ISO certification process, which gave me a structured, in-depth understanding of every facet of the business. In 2003, I expanded our reach by setting up a branch in Iraq, gaining valuable international experience. By 2013, I had grown into the role of Managing Director, a position shaped by years of continuous learning and deep commitment to the company’s growth.
Taking over the family business during such a pivotal time was no easy task. Yet, the education and mindset instilled in me at IC gave me the resilience to adapt and lead. My story didn’t stop at the boardroom. Alongside my professional responsibilities, I rediscovered a long-standing passion for cooking. That love for culinary arts inspired me to found Supper No. 9, an exclusive rooftop supper club offering intimate dining experiences at secret locations. More than just a meal, it’s about bringing people together, creating connections that nourish both the body and the soul. That same spirit of connection and flavor led to the launch of Flame kissed BBQ, a gourmet BBQ and live-fire catering experience rooted in craftsmanship and bold, honest food. From private gatherings to large-scale events, Flame kissed is all about fire-grilled excellence, storytelling through smoke, and redefining what catering can be; elevated, interactive, and unforgettable.
Giving back has also been a central part of my journey. Following the Beirut blast, I co-founded Le2mte Le2mtak, an initiative that provided high-quality meals to those affected. For me, community support isn’t just a responsibility—it’s a deeply personal commitment, especially in times of crisis.
That same spirit of connection and contribution drives my work today as Head of the B2B Networking Committee at ICAA. My vision is to shape the organization into a vibrant hub where professional connections evolve into lasting collaborations built on trust and shared values. This committee is about more than just exchanging business cards; it’s about cultivating meaningful relationships that lead to real growth and opportunity. My mission is to develop an inclusive, high-value platform that enables members to expand their networks, grow their businesses, and explore strategic opportunities both locally and globally. I want each member to feel that their involvement opens real doors; whether to new clients, valuable partnerships, or innovative ideas. I believe the most impactful business relationships come from authenticity and mutual respect, which is why I focus on creating both structured events and informal gatherings that encourage real conversations and spark collaboration. It’s about building a community that evolves together, supports one another, and gives back.
As I often say, “At the end of the day, I’m most passionate about helping people find the right connections at the right time. ICAA is full of incredible talent and energy—my role is to help unlock that potential through meaningful, intentional networking. If one introduction leads to a breakthrough, then we’ve done our job.”
