Shine: Cohort 1, April-May 2025
Yasmina Halwani

Lebanon
Yasmina comes from a business administration background and currently works full-time at SVA Agency as a Senior Executive Assistant. Known for her proactive mindset and diverse skill set, she navigates the worlds of administration and operations with confidence and clarity. Whether it's organizing internal processes or supporting high-level decision-making, Yasmina brings focus, efficiency, and heart to everything she does. As a participant in the SHINE cohort, she’s committed to growing both personally and professionally—and to helping other women do the same.
Ghaliah Ahmad Saleh

Palestine
Ghaliah Ahmad Saleh, a pharmacist from Tulkarm, Palestine, with 8 years of experience, transitioned into creating educational books, stories, and cloth games for children through her project "Mama Ghaliah" to reduce electronic exposure. She also trains small business owners on starting and improving their ventures. Ghaliah is eager to be part of Barakat, valuing the role of internal strength for business success and looking forward to skill-building with the team.
Nadia Mekdad

Lebanon
Nadia is a passionate educator with 8 years of experience. Throughout her career, she’s made a significant impact on students' lives by focusing on social-emotional learning and English language and goes beyond to ensure students' success.
Currently, she’s writing her Master’s thesis on the integration of artificial intelligence in teaching. She works as a commutation officer at Al Daleel Association.
Chantal Souaid

Mount Lebanon, Lebanon
Chantal Souaid is a productivity coach and founder of The Weekly Resolution®. She developed The Weekly Resolution® concept that revolves around the Uno-Trio® life balance concept and achieving goals one week at a time. She is also certified in Logotherapy, and a certified John Maxwell coach, trainer, and speaker.
Ghalia Al Awik

Tripoli, Lebanon
Ghalia is the founder of Positive Vibes a social initiative that works on building a generation of enabled positive mindsets for youth living in Lebanon through opening their opportunities and enhancing their social skills.
Samar Ghanem

Lebanon
Samar Atef Ghanem a dynamic and resilient scholar who embodies the spirit of determination and positivity. With a Bachelor's degree in Education, a Master’s in Business and Economics, and a PhD in Sustainability in Economics.
Known by her peers as a warrior—both in her academic pursuits and personal journey—she approaches every challenge with unwavering optimism and strength. She leads with heart, vision, and a deep belief in the power of positive change.