Alumni

Mazen Lahham

CTO and Co-Founder of boxMind.ai

My journey in computer science began in 1986 with an introductory course on punch card programming. Over the past 3 decades, I've developed extensive expertise across a broad spectrum of technology domains, from ERP enterprise software and Artificial Intelligence to Robotics, Security, and Blockchain. In 2016, I received the Best Arab Software Developer award at the Smart Government ceremonial in Kuwait, attended by UN diplomatic officials and under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed Al-Abdullah Al-Sabah. I've led and collaborated on large-scale projects with the United Nations, Dubai Municipality, numerous governmental entities, and the World Bank. Most recently, I co-founded boxMind.ai, an AI-focused company that specializes in Generative AI and open-source LLM models, Stable Diffusion, and a new AI revolution that I firmly believe will change the world.

Rami Sarieddine

Senior Solutions Specialist at Microsoft - UAE

Rami Sarieddine is a seasoned technology leader with over a decade of experience at globally recognized companies like Microsoft and Amazon. Currently, he serves as a Senior AI Solutions Specialist at Microsoft UAE, where he leads solution sales and technical strategy focused on application innovation, digital transformation, and CxO-level engagement within the UAE enterprise sector. At Amazon, Rami held dual roles, most recently as Senior Engineering Manager and previously as Senior Technical Program Manager, overseeing large-scale technology programs and engineering teams in Canada. Over more than eight years at Microsoft, he held multiple strategic and technical roles including Senior Program Manager in Azure Engineering, Cloud Solution Architect, and Technology Strategist, driving cloud adoption and innovation across the Middle East and global markets.

Michel Al Asmar

Site Engineer at Cognizant (Nasdaq-100: CTSH)

Michel is a skilled Site Engineer at Cognizant (Nasdaq-100: CTSH) with over eight years of experience as a Software Engineer and AI expert in the IT and services industry. He specializes in Microsoft Azure, Power Platforms, SharePoint, and Dynamics, combined with strong project management and client engagement abilities. Alongside his engineering role, Michel serves as a Microsoft Certified Trainer in the UAE and hybrid settings, dedicated to delivering Microsoft courses and sharing knowledge across various fields. His efforts emphasize the vital role of Microsoft technologies in enhancing everyday business operations. Michel is also recognized for his contributions as a seminar coach and active participant in community events such as OpenHacks, earning multiple scout, merit, and community awards.

Ali Boussi

Qatar General Channel Sales Director at Hikvision MENA

Ali Boussi is the Qatar General Channel Sales Director at Hikvision MENA, with over 16 years of experience in the security technology sector. Holding a BS in IT and an MBA, Ali has led sales strategy and channel development across the Middle East. He progressed from Sales Project Manager to his current leadership role at Hikvision, delivering comprehensive security solutions in Qatar and the region. Previously, he held senior roles at Business Automation & Security Systems (BASS) and began his career at Emirtec, building strong industry partnerships and driving strategic growth.

Goerges Doumit

Software Manager at GE Curren

George is an experienced software and technology leader currently serving as Software Development Manager at Alexa Translations. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in IT from Arab Open University (2009) and a Master’s in Quality Systems Engineering from Concordia University (2012). Since starting his career in Canada in 2012, George has held key roles in leading companies such as Triton Digital, Ubisoft Montréal, GE Current, Gigamon, and Genetec. At GE Current, he progressed from Staff Software Engineer to Software Manager, leading complex software and data projects. His career is marked by strong leadership, technical expertise, and a focus on innovative technology solutions.

Giovanni Kaddissi

Cloud Operations Engineer II at Amazon Web Services - Ireland

Giovanni Kaddissi is a seasoned Cloud Operations Engineer II at Amazon Web Services (AWS) in Ireland, with over 9 years of experience in the technology industry. Specializing in AWS cloud infrastructure, networking, firewalls, and IT systems administration, Giovanni brings deep technical expertise and a proven ability to manage complex systems across enterprise environments. His background includes datacenter management, Windows Server roles, Active Directory, customer support, and technical troubleshooting, all executed with precision, strong organization, and attention to detail.

Rima Awada

Partner, and an Accredited Trainer at ICTN

Rima Awada is a seasoned trainer and Partner at ICTN LLP with over 14 years of experience in soft skills development and leadership training. She delivers workshops for global organizations, co-facilitates executive coaching sessions, and leads digital strategy and business development across the MENA region. She also serves as Delivery Partner at GingrTech and is certified in EQ facilitation, fitness training, and voice-over work.

Ibrahim Zada

Senior Project Manager at Taqniyat – KSA

Ibrahim Zada is a Senior Project Manager at Taqniyat – KSA, with over 9 years of experience in technology and project management. A graduate of AOU in IT (2017) and holder of an MBA (2019), he has led complex digital projects across renowned firms such as AKQA, Mirum, and STeP Systems. He also serves as Technical Business Consultant at ACE and Board Treasurer at the Association for Information Systems. His recent completion of a Postgraduate Certificate in Strategic Management from the University of Derby marks a key academic milestone in his leadership journey.

Mounir Karib

Senior Recruitment Consultant at Swisslinx

Mounir Karib is a Senior Recruitment Consultant at Swisslinx, based in Zurich, Switzerland, specializing in IT and SAP roles. With a deep understanding of the technology landscape and a candidate-centric approach, he connects skilled professionals with opportunities that align with their goals. Known for building strong relationships and delivering a seamless recruitment experience, Mounir is committed to empowering both individuals and organizations to succeed.

Chimene El Achkar

Human Resources Manager at ATTALIAN Europe

Chimene El Achkar is a seasoned Human Resources Manager at ATTALIAN Europe, holding both a BBA (2017) and an MBA (2020). With over a decade of experience, she leads HR, office operations, and quality control for more than 150 employees. Known for aligning human capital strategies with business goals, Chimene drives performance, inclusion, and operational excellence across departments.

Omar Kaskas

Media Ambassador for Samsung in the Arab world

Omar serves as the Media Ambassador for Samsung in the Arab world, and is the founder and host of the popular digital series HonaTech. He previously worked as a digital advisor at the Ministry of Interior in Lebanon and a digital consultant for Al Arabiya, and led media efforts at Future TV and Hona Lebanon.