As the Country Manager at Aspire Software Lebanon, Nabil Mardelli is responsible for creating, expanding, developing, and running the company’s operations in Lebanon.

One of Nabil’s notable achievements was establishing the company in Lebanon in July 2022.  WIth the support of an inspiring executive team and dedicated colleagues, Nabil successfully grew the team to 100 employees within a year, with plans to double the workforce by the end of 2024.

Nabil holds an engineering degree from the American University in Beirut (AUB) and has obtained various IT certifications.  

Your background in Telecom/IT and operational management is impressive. Tell us briefly about your journey and how it led you to Aspire Software?

I was born and raised in Lebanon before immigrating to Canada in my mid-20s. Despite facing a few hurdles, I embarked on a career spanning over 20 years in the telecommunications industry. Throughout my journey, I primarily specialized in operations, assuming various roles encompassing support, implementation, and service delivery. This path took me across three continents, providing me with invaluable experiences in diverse cultural and professional landscapes.

In October 2021, I joined Aspire Software in Montreal, Canada, as a senior operational director. Subsequently, in July 2022, I had the privilege of establishing our company’s presence in Lebanon, with operations officially starting in September 2022. Aspire Software embodies the mission and culture that I have always sought in a mature company, making it a fulfilling professional environment for me.

Aspire software is the operating arm of Valsoft, can you elaborate on Valsoft’ s mission and how does Aspire contribute to achieving it?

Valsoft is an entrepreneurial company dedicated to the acquisition, enhancement, and sustainable growth of businesses, all while empowering its companies and offering opportunities for its human resources to build a better future. Aspire serves as the operational arm of Valsoft, embodying a commitment to nurturing, enhancing, and growing acquired companies through investment in time, resources, and knowledge.

The leadership team creates an environment of engagement, making difficult decisions easier to own, drive and implement. They possess the expertise to bring out the best in their teams and are deeply committed to career development and growth.

Having worked on 3 continents, what led you to choose Lebanon with Aspire?

In every setting, challenges are inevitable, but at Aspire, we are unwaveringly dedicated to success. With some owners and executives at Valsoft and Aspire, tracing their roots back to Lebanon, our bond with Lebanon as our mother country runs deep. Moreover, Lebanese talent is renowned for its high level of education and proficiency in multiple languages. Our mission at Aspire has been to cultivate an environment where our workforce can thrive and excel to its fullest potential.

Starting Aspire in Lebanon during challenging times required courage:

• What motivated you and kept you optimistic about success?

It never crossed my mind that these challenges could be showstoppers. As I mentioned earlier, the supportive environment fostered by Valsoft and Aspire makes hard tasks easy to achieve. Having the confidence and belief that we can achieve our objectives is a big factor in our success. Thanks to this mindset, we were able to expand the company to 100 employees in less than a year.

• What were the main challenges you encountered when establishing Aspire in Lebanon? How did you overcome them?

Beyond the challenges of high internet cost, unreliability, and frequent government office closures, it’s evident that the Lebanese workforce has lost its ability to envision a future in their homeland. Understandably, the prevailing sentiment is one of disillusionment, leading to a lack of ambition in building careers.

We noticed a lack of hope and aspiration in their mindset, overshadowed by the persistent daily challenges they face. When I asked about their long-term career goals, job seekers often seemed perplexed, as if such aspirations were foreign concepts. In a sense, they were right; I was an alien to their struggles and losses. It became clear that I needed to bring them alternatives and career plans that would foster growth and optimism.

Consequently, we established an environment conducive to nurturing long-term career plans, with each employee encouraged to actively participate and take ownership of their success. Rather than solely attributing challenges to the country's circumstances, our small and dedicated team was empowered to be part of the solution.

As Lebanon’s Country Manager, what aspect of your daily responsibilities do you find most fulfilling?

Working closely with our employees is the most fulfilling aspect of my role. Anticipating opportunities for mutual growth and helping them realize their achievements and contributions are fundamental to their career growth and to building a successful company.

What is your long-term vision for Aspire software in Lebanon? Do you foresee expansion in new markets?

Valsoft’s acquisitions have nearly doubled from what they were two years ago, and we are on track to reach nearly 100 companies by the end of 2024. With this growth, the demand for Lebanese talent is expected to increase significantly, prompting us to aim to double our resources by the year’s end. We have ongoing plans for further expansion and recruitment, which are currently under evaluation.

After building your team in Lebanon, what advice do you have for young professionals entering the workforce?

Be humble and stay hungry. Believe in teamwork and in the company’s core values. Focus on building your career and think long term.

Is there anything else you’d like to share about your journey with Aspire?

We cannot achieve our objectives without the right structure and colleagues. I am truly blessed to be surrounded by talented individuals who consistently bring their best to the table and understand the importance of teamwork and a shared vision. Aspire Software’s journey in Lebanon started as a risky challenge, but it has become our finest and most remarkable project. Moving forward, we are committed to continued growth and expansion while remaining true to our culture and core values.

In March, LebNet celebrated Women’s Month with the theme “Inspire Inclusion”, featuring our Women in Tech leaders who are championing the advancement of fellow women in the tech industry, alongside the LebNet Women Tech Fellows. At LebNet, our commitment to fostering a gender-equal world remains unwavering. We aspire to a world free from bias, stereotypes, and discrimination - one that embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Quotes from LebNet’s Women Tech Leaders

Thank you, Layal Rouhana, for your exemplary woman leadership as a LebNet board member and guiding force behind the LebNet Women in Tech community and its mentorship program. Your dedication and passion are truly appreciated as you empower women in tech to achieve their fullest potential.

Thank you Aya Mouallem for leading the LebNet Fellowship program, empowering women in tech! As a co-founder of All Girls Code, you have inspired hundreds of girls in the Arab world in STEM. Your advocacy for equitable education has been featured by Forbes, Cosmopolitan Middle East, and UN Women.

Thank you, Joelle Bouchedid, for your invaluable contributions as a pioneering woman technologist and CEO of ArcusScale. Your leadership journey inspires innovation and growth in the tech industry and serves as a beacon of support for aspiring women in the field.

Thank you Stephanie Semaan for trailblazing as a woman inspiring transformative change in the Metaverse. Your leadership in unlocking the future of work with Virtual Reality ignites innovation and empowers organizations to navigate confidently.

LebNet Tech Fellows 2024:

The WiT fellowship program, led by Aya Mouallem (WiT outreach lead), equips the next generation of Lebanese technologists, studying at various Lebanese universities, with the skills needed to succeed in tech careers post-university. Join us in celebrating the women who joined the program this year.

Charbel Atala was born and raised in Lebanon, where he completed his legal education at the Lebanese University.  Later he pursued a Master's degree in Law and International Relations from Notre Dame University. His legal career began in Lebanon, specializing in insurance civil litigation. However, his journey took a significant turn after the 2006 conflict, leading him to relocate to Dubai and work with esteemed U.S. law firms such as Dewey & LeBoeuf and Dechert LLP. In 2017, he made a strategic move to California, immersing himself in the field of recruiting. Charbel secured franchise rights for Gecko Hospitality in crucial California markets, including San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck in 2020, he spotted an opportunity for innovation and founded Talent Gurus, a retained search firm that is revolutionizing talent acquisition by prioritizing skill and performance-based hiring. Despite being a relatively small startup, Charbel Atala envisions significant growth for Talent Gurus. 

For a deeper dive into how he manages to  juggle roles while maintaining work efficiency and success, explore our exclusive interview with him.

You serve as the Managing Partner for two companies: how do you allocate your time between them?

Splitting my time between Gecko Hospitality and Talent Gurus is an art and a science. Right now, it's a 70/30 balance, with Talent Gurus getting that essential 30% nurturing time. Thanks to a strong team of recruiters in Gecko Hospitality, we're able to run a tight ship, allowing me the headspace to strategize and fuel Talent Gurus' growth.

Tell us more about Talent Gurus and Gecko Hospitality: Specifically the number of companies you collaborate with, the quantity of individuals placed through these companies, and the type of roles or talents that are particularly sought after.

With Gecko Hospitality, we're talking about a national brand with local spice. My California market collaborates with dozens of regional hotel management firms and national hotel brands. Last year, we placed 50+ exceptional talents (various managerial positions), especially in an understaffed industry and hungry for skills. As for Talent Gurus, the spotlight is on senior-level roles. We're a boutique firm, so the numbers may be smaller, but each placement is a gem—12 last year, including two COOs and a CFO. At Talent Gurus, we pride ourselves on being at the forefront of talent solutions, offering innovative programs for professionals like SOLVE and PACE, designed to enhance leadership skills and career development. On the company front, we're expanding our services to include comprehensive talent attraction and acquisition strategies, employer branding, and advisory services. We craft customized employer value propositions, revamp career pages, and develop tailored social media content plans. Our offerings also extend to compensation and benefits advisory, ensuring our clients stay competitive and retain top talent. This holistic approach positions us as a strategic partner in our clients' success.

Are they sister companies? Why did you decide to manage both at the same time? 

Not in the traditional sense. My vision is to make Gecko Hospitality so seamless that it operates without needing my daily input, freeing me up to pour all my energy into growing Talent Gurus, my brainchild.

How is your background in corporate law supporting your current roles? 

Corporate law hasn't just given me a keen eye for detail; it's also fortified my understanding of organizational dynamics. It helps me navigate the intricate pathways of talent acquisition with an almost forensic accuracy. It's the secret sauce that adds depth to my role in both Gecko and Talent Gurus.

What was the most challenging role for you and why?

My greatest challenge lies in driving innovation within the industry and diversifying our service offerings in response to market demands, all while overseeing the operational aspects of the business. It’s about continuously evolving our practices and ensuring we meet the highest service delivery and operational excellence standards.

You are a paid LebNet member, thank you for your contributions. Why did you decide to support LebNet and how do you think you can help us create more impact in our communities and for our members? 

Supporting LebNet is more than just a financial contribution; it's a nod to my roots. Sure, there's a bit of "selfish" nostalgia to stay connected with the Lebanese community, but the real value lies in sharing my insights to help others navigate their careers. Let's create impact, one career at a time!

Philippe Boutros moved to the US from Lebanon to study Philosophy at the University of Portland. From 2015 to 2022, he worked as a consultant for B2B tech companies (ranging from startups to Google, Amazon, and Microsoft). He subsequently ran Marketing for Transform Data, a Series A startup that was acquired by dbt Labs in February 2023.

Since 2014, he has been deeply engaged in a variety of projects, amassing considerable expertise in the B2B market and marketing for dozens of tech companies. In 2022, he assumed the role of Vice President (Tech Sector) at ClearPath Strategies. He subsequently took the helm of marketing efforts at Transform Data, a data analytics firm that was acquired by dbt Labs in February 2023.  

Boutros –an active LebNet member since 2015– recently relocated from Portland, Oregon to Boise, Idaho, where his wife joined Boise State University as a neuroscience professor. After Transform's acquisition, he deliberated running Marketing for other startups, but ultimately settled on trying to solve a problem that had irked him his entire career.

“When software buyers at businesses need to buy something they don't have experience with, they spend an inordinate amount of time searching for, buying, and implementing software, even though someone in a similar position has already had to learn things the hard way. This results in, at best, wasted time, and at worst, the wrong software decision, a costly mistake,” he explained.  

Hence he founded GetWhys, a resource to help software buyers find the right answers. Using the same data collection process as they do in market research, GetWhys is building InsightsDB, a proprietary database of research interviews with software buyers. GetWhys uses a commodity LLM to access the information in that database, helping customers save time identifying the right solution, negotiating the cost and contract, and efficiently implementing it. As Boutros put it in a prior interview, “It leverages the hindsight of people who come before you.”

In August 2023, Boutros launched GetWhys’ first product, which is currently in closed beta testing with a dozen customers, ranging from AI startups to enterprises. Over the next few months, Boutros will keep letting organizations off the waitlist and they are always on the lookout for new joiners.

As you navigate career goals and face personal challenges, your mental health well-being significantly impacts your overall quality of your life. A study conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) estimated that over one in five U.S. adults live in moderate to severe mental health conditions (57.8 million in 2021). While treatment approaches differ based on specific conditions, the recommendation  to ‘talk with people’ remains a crucial piece of advice for individuals coping with stress or managing mental health concerns. Consequently, we now witness a range of services providing support and guided meditations to address this need. 

One such service is Mind-Easy. 

Emerging as a response to the cultural shock faced by its three co-founders (pictured below), Alexandra Assouad (Lebanon), Dalia Ahmed (Yemen), and Akanksha Shelat (India) - Mind-Easy is a mental health resource designed to aid clients while they wait for therapy services. By seamlessly integrating this resource into teletherapy services, Mind-Easy assists clients in preparing for their upcoming therapy sessions, leading to a reduction in drop-out rates, fostering an enhanced therapeutic alliance between clients and therapists, and ultimately improving the treatment outcomes.

(The three co-founders Akanksha Shelat to the left, Alexandra Assouad in the middle and Dalia Ahmed)

“I experienced a lot of external upheaval in my upbringing, and while I was fortunate enough to move to Toronto for education, I encountered a different form of turmoil, and this time it was internal,” shared Alexandra Assouad during an interview with LebNet. “Being far from my family in Lebanon, I had to adapt to a new culture and a new language.” 

Assouad further explained that she and her co-founders struggled to find the support they needed. “It was particularly challenging to locate mental health solutions that truly understood our unique identities, or were available in our native dialects and languages. This is when we decided to pool our distinct but very complementary skill sets to create Mind-Easy.”

The founding team is an embodiment of diversity. Beyond their cultural backgrounds, each member brought something new to the endeavor: Assouad’s background encompassed venture capital funding within the healthcare industry, Dalia Ahmed is pursuing a PhD in education with a specialization in Counseling and Psychotherapy, and Akanksha Shelat holds a BSc. in Computer Science and Cognitive Science. 

The Next Frontier: Technology in Mental Health

Launched in March of 2021, Mind-Easy offers virtual therapists proficient in several dialects and over 120 languages. These therapists take the form of AI-based avatars designed to represent diverse cultures and ethnicities. These avatars serve as helpful guides in areas such assertive communication, managing email-related stress, and handling challenging situations with a superior, among other relevant topics.  

“We've established a premier network of more than 70 mental health specialists, representing diverse ethnicities, cultural and religious backgrounds.  Their invaluable clinical expertise ensures the rigorous assessment and validation of the modifications we make to our resources,” remarked  Assouad. “These dedicated experts have devoted their lifetimes to researching effective strategies, identifying suitable terminology and careful approaches for distinct identities. Our rigorous clinical validation process is applied to everything before it’s made public.  Our entire approach is self contained and devoid of reliance on any open-source data.” 

At present, the founders focus on engaging companies that enroll their employees on the platform as a vital aspect of the company’s mission to deliver wellness services to its workforce. The team has more than a dozen corporate partners, primarily concentrating on large enterprises boasting a staff of 25,000 or more. Although they piloted a mental health clinic in the Metaverse, the team have been more focused on their online platform and B2B contracts. 

“Our on-boarding process is straightforward, involving a brief set of questions to gauge each employee's current well-being, enabling us to tailor a personalized program. The interaction isn't a real-time conversation; it’s based on stored information. Whenever I, as a customer, pose a question to the chatbot, it responds with the knowledge it possesses,” explained Assouad. 

Presently, the co-founders are actively seeking funding for their seed round, aiming to grow their team and acquire the talent to elevate their mission. Their ultimate goal is to establish themselves as frontrunners in the realm of mental well-being.  They plan to diversify their reach by venturing into additional sectors, with a strategic focus on partnering with hospitals and healthcare systems, as well as engaging the younger demographic through education institutions such as schools and colleges. 

Each day presents an opportunity to promote awareness of individuals facing mental health challenges. A meaningful conversation, a thoughtful gesture, or a supportive action can have a profound impact. Thanks to technology, the world has the potential to improve significantly, with the assurance that there’s always someone to engage with even during the times when it seems otherwise. 

Elie Habib is an accomplished venture consultant, investor, entrepreneur, and corporate executive with extensive experience in leadership, global venture investment, and consulting.  He is the Managing Principal at Venture Consulting Partners, providing advisory services in the USA and MENA regions. Elie founded the first VC fund in the Middle East, and has extensive experience in global venture investment serving on the boards of various VC-backed startups. He has also held several executive positions at Nokia and other US corporations. He holds an MS in computer science from Case Western University and a Maitrise in Computer Science from Toulouse, France.

In 1999, Elie had the vision to create LebNet, a community platform for Lebanese high-tech professionals in the Bay Area. Serving as its president until 2010, Elie aimed to connect LebNet’s members, facilitate knowledge exchange, and encourage community contributions. Together with George Akiki, Fares Moubarak, and Khaled Nasr, they laid the foundation of this premier diaspora network for tech professionals worldwide.

Tell us about your early beginnings

Like numerous Lebanese immigrants, my personal journey mirrors those who were compelled to leave Lebanon during their formative years and eventually establish their lives in the United States after completing their higher education. Initially our contact with our families was limited to sporadic phone calls, letters, and infrequent visits.  Lebanon was still reeling from the aftermath of war, and each of us had to navigate our own paths and persevere to achieve our goals.

In your current job: What do you enjoy the most? 

Currently, my primary focus revolves around aiding funds in the US in their capital-raising efforts and providing consultation to corporations in the MENA region as they design and implement their VC programs. I firmly believe that this serves as a crucial foundation for large local corporations to strategically invest in startups, thereby expanding their distribution channels and markets. Ultimately, this can lead to the acquisition of startups and the provision of liquidity to local stakeholders. I enjoy solving this intricate puzzle and enabling a win-win situation for the local ecosystem. This entails fostering the growth and successful exit of startups and entrepreneurs, while enabling corporations to embrace external innovation internally. This, in turn, creates new job opportunities, markets and business models, ultimately culminating in liquidity for the investors. 

You worked with Nokia before launching your own company Vusion: what influenced your decision and how would you describe your experience co-founding a company? 

In 1998, I led the product team of a startup that went public through a successful IPO.  Following, Nokia acquired the company, and I became the Global VP of Engineering and SVP/GM, responsible for enterprise products, including security appliances.

After six years at Nokia, I felt a strong desire to venture into another startup. In 2006, I partnered with a co-founder, secured funding, and established a company aimed at disrupting Netflix’s CD distribution business while pioneering high-definition video streaming. Our innovative value proposition gained traction, and we landed our first deal with Def-Jam to stream Rihanna’s “Umbrella” in high definition through a browser.  Although commonplace now, this exemplifies the ongoing cycle of innovation. As a CEO and founder, the experience was exhilarating, thrilling, daunting, challenging, and pushing the limits of creativity and tenacity. Enjoying the journey and trusting  intuition,  along with the advice from trusted friends, are crucial elements in this role.

In 2010, you moved to the MENA region to take on the role of country manager at Abraaj Capital. What motivated this move?

After selling my startup in 2009, a conversation with George Akiki,  who was leading a major initiative supported by Cisco and Intel for Lebanon, inspired me to establish a $50 million VC fund exclusively for Lebanese startups. This decision required me to move to Beirut to effectively deploy the fund. Initially, Abraaj Capital joined as a limited partner (LP) and later became a co-general partner (GP) under their own brand. 

Moving to Lebanon from the US brought a blend of excitement, challenges and apprehension. The endeavor required more effort than anticipated, overcoming intricate social and geopolitical hurdles. My decision to start and lead LebNet, establish a fund, and relocate to Lebanon stemmed from a deep passion for driving positive change for the aspiring young Lebanese community. 

You worked with funds in the US and the Mena region: How do you describe your experience in both? 

Engaging in VC work is an exceptionally unique and fulfilling experience regardless of location, but the MENA region poses challenges compared to the US. The region lacks the same seamless economic systems, leading entrepreneurs to allocate more equity capital to address regional deficiencies vs. focusing on the core value proposition. There is also an imbalance between capital inflows and the supply of quality startups, resulting in inflated valuations without corresponding liquidity events for investors. Despite these challenges, job opportunities are being created, and local solutions are driving progress in the region. 

What do you consider to be your biggest achievement?

Professionally, LebNet.

What do you see as LebNet’s most remarkable achievements?

I am proud of LebNet’s remarkable evolution and grateful to all who have believed and supported our vision. Our unwavering faith in our mission, commitment to supporting our global community, and investments in our role as a professional bridge to Lebanon, have been key to LebNet’s success for the past 24 years and counting.  

Another achievement is our commitment to reinventing LebNet while upholding key principles: 

1) Implementing succession planning by setting term limits and electing diverse and younger board members. This empowers the next generation to lead and ensures the original founders and other board members transition gracefully into advisory roles, 2) Emphasizing inclusivity, and diversity among our members, communities and board members.  This generates excitement, volunteerism and engagement surpassing Lebnet’s early days. 3) Expanding LebNet’s reach beyond the Bay Area to major cities across the US and Canada through our effective organizational structure. By consistently implementing these principles, we propel LebNet forward, ensuring its relevance, impact, growth and engagement.

LebNet’s success is exemplified by its ability to transcend religion, politics, social divisions, and gender issues that often hinder organizations. This harmonious collaboration among diverse individuals requires immense effort and unwavering commitment.  We take pride in LebNet’s brand value, as it showcases the possibility of creating a thriving environment of unified cooperation.

As LebNet grows in membership and impact, there are ongoing challenges that require attention. One primary challenge is securing a budget to sustain and operate LebNet at its current scale. Historically, we have relied on a small group of generous donors for funding. I invite all members who benefit from the Lebnet platform to consider making donations and offering financial support. Every dollar makes a meaningful impact and contributes to the continued success of LebNet.

Edgar Masri is the CEO of Accton Group, a $2.5 billion Taiwan-based leader in advanced networking and communication equipment. He has been a non-executive director at Spirent Communications plc since January 2018 and serves on the board of directors at Kollective, a provider of cloud-based video distribution solutions. Previously, he was the president and CEO of Qualtré, Inc., a startup developing sensors for industrial and automotive applications,and led its acquisition by Panasonic Corporation. Prior to that, he held executive positions at 3Com Corporation and Matrix Partners. Mr. Masri holds an engineering degree from l’Ecole Centrale de Paris, an MSEE from the University of California at Berkeley, and an MBA from Stanford University.

From 2013-2016, Edgar became a member of the LebNet board, playing a pivotal role in driving the organization’s expansion on the east coast, specifically in Boston.  Additionally, he actively engaged in recruiting esteemed board members, contributing to the organization’s growth and influence.  Edgar’s extensive network and exceptional networking skills made him an invaluable asset, as he not only mentored startups involved in our programs but also served as a reliable resource, always willing to offer assistance and support.

Tell us about your early beginnings and challenges

I was born and raised in Beirut, Lebanon in a structured, family oriented environment, and was blessed to receive a rich and intense French Jesuit education at College Notre Dame de Jamhour. I used to spend my summers at my mother’s family house in Bcharre in the north of Lebanon. There, with no TV reception at that time and limited social activities, I developed a keen passion for hiking and outdoor activities, two pastimes that have served me so well throughout the years, bringing balance and clarity to my professional and personal lives. With limited financial means, as my father lost his job during the Lebanese civil war, I learned to be resourceful and provide for my tuition and other expenses by tutoring or teaching math and science. Determined to have a US education, I saved enough money to afford attending engineering and business schools in the US. I focused on turning every challenge into an opportunity to improve or excel.

You were the CEO of several companies throughout your career. In your opinion, what constitutes a good CEO/leader? 

Among the numerous qualities that define a leader, there is one particular description, imparted by a communications professor, that has stuck with me: Leadership=Communication and Communication=Leadership. Expanding upon this notion, exceptional leaders and CEOs exhibit traits such as unwavering conviction, magnetic charisma, and the ability to drive towards tangible results. Moreover, I have come to appreciate additional attributes highlighted in a Harvard Business Review article, namely self-awareness, self restraint, humility and empathy.

How do you manage your time between being the CEO of Accton, the Non Executive Director at Spirent Communications, a board member at Kollective Technology? 

My primary focus and commitment revolve around my role as CEO of Accton (headquarters in Taiwan with a global customer base). While the board positions I hold at Spirent and Kollective do add travel burden, incidentally, they do help me maintain and share perspective in my CEO role, as companies often face similar issues (geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, etc). I have been able to lighten the travel and attendance burden through careful planning, including incorporating customer and partner visits when attending board meetings or relying on online participation. This approach has proven critical, enabling me to prioritize and schedule key meetings in a proactive manner.

What part of your job do you enjoy the most? 

I enjoy working with a team on identifying the latest technology trends and engaging early on with potential prospects and partners to define innovative products and solutions. I take pleasure in ensuring any company I lead stays ahead of the curve, whether by being the first, best, or only companyto introduce a particular solution.With the advent of generative AI, I enjoy interacting with thought leaders and entrepreneurs starting from vague or loosely defined ideas. I then collaborate closely with technology architects and company officers, motivating and guiding them to develop next-generation products and systems that surpass industry standards.

What part of your job challenges you the most ?

Of the many challenges I face in my job, two stand out as the most difficult: 

1- Balancing personal, family, and professional life is a challenge that increases exponentially when working for a public company with multinational presence. I thus make a point of planning and giving priority to regular family gatherings throughout the year.

2- The cultural differences that eventually make the strength of our company require a lot of steady attention. To navigate, I find myself continuously shifting my mindset between Western and Eastern ways of thinking, ensuring a comprehensive understanding and effective decision-making. Reading foreign novels, especially folk stories, and studying the local language have helped me to a great extent to deal with that challenge.

What is your biggest accomplishment till now? 

I am most proud of the successful acquisition in 2006 of the joint venture, H3C, between 3Com and Huawei, which involved navigating through challenging negotiations while being confined to a hotel in China for nearly three weeks. Despite the initial skepticism from shareholders and investors, I remained patient, determined and resilient throughout the process.  The acquisition proved to be a remarkable success, as, within three years, the value of H3C nearly doubled. This accomplishment serves as a significant milestone in my professional journey, and I take pride in the courage and determination that fueled its realization despite the criticism I had to deal with.

As someone who has been involved with LebNet, what role do you see yourself playing in the future of this organization? Where would you like LebNet to be in the near future? 

I have been, and remain committed to being, a mentor and coach to young Lebanese entrepreneurs as they embark on their entrepreneurial journeys or encounter challenges in their business ventures. Looking ahead, I anticipate LebNet’s continued dedication to fostering connections within the Lebanese entrepreneurial community. Especially in the face of Lebanon’s current economic difficulties, I hope to see LebNet’s unwavering support in promoting the establishment and growth of businesses within Lebanon while also facilitating their global expansion. In addition, LebNet can play a vital role in helping to leverage the exceptional pool of talent available in Lebanon to meet the demands of businesses worldwide.

George Skaff is the Sr. VP of WW Marketing at Daon, leading a global team focused on delivering impactful programs to F1000 companies for seamless cross-channel onboarding and authentication. He previously served as the GM of the Digital Line of Business at Nuance Communications and held the role of VP of Worldwide Marketing at Nuance. With over 30 years of experience in B2B SaaS, George has also held senior marketing positions at SGI, DigitalPersona, Wyse, and NEC Computers. 

From 2012 to 2018, George played a pivotal role on the LebNet board, contributing his expertise to the design of the LebNet website and spearheading the organization's marketing campaigns.

Tell us about your first roles and how they shaped you and your journey as a marketing expert

After graduating from AUB with B.E.E. in Computer Science and an MBA, I emigrated to the USA in search of the right opportunity and I landed my first job at Logitech. Throughout my tenure there, I moved through various roles starting from product support, transitioning to product marketing and eventually assuming the position of head of marketing. Following my time at Logitech, I ventured into the startup realm. 12 years later, I then joined NEC Computers. My passion for marketing was nurtured during my early days at Logitech when I was involved with the creation and introduction of innovative products. I took an active role in bridging the gap between product features and consumer needs. I quickly realized that addressing customer needs is fundamental to a company’s success.

When it comes to product marketing, what are the key tactics for launching and growing a successful product?

When launching a successful product, there is one and only one rule to keep in mind: Does your product genuinely address customers’ needs, fill a market gap, or serve as a leading indicator? Understanding the market needs is essential for companies to position themselves for a successful product launch. This knowledge will drive the development of comprehensive marketing strategies and tactics such as creating impactful website landing pages, designing compelling promotional material, executing targeted email campaigns, and more.  

What part of your job do you enjoy the most?

At this point of my career, I enjoy mentoring my staff and sharing my business expertise, enriched by real-life experiences. Having been in high tech marketing for startups and larger companies for over 35 years, I have succeeded and failed many times along the way. I have learned more from my failures than from my successes. Ultimately, if I can help someone avoid the pitfalls and failures, it makes my day. 

What part of your job challenges you the most?

I find ignorance to be my worst enemy and biggest challenge. And I am not talking about someone being ignorant on purpose, but rather not taking the time to research the topic, understand the real issues, ask the right questions, and draw the logical conclusions. I always encourage people to ask before they act. 

What is your biggest accomplishment till now?

On a personal level, I have been married for almost 40 years and, along with my wife, have raised two wonderful daughters who now have great careers of their own and make me proud every day. It’s amazing how fulfilling it is to watch your own children grow and prosper in their own world. 

On a professional level, I am proud to say that I am living the American dream. I emigrated to the US for a better life, and my background and ethnicity have helped me work hard towards achieving my goals. I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to start from scratch and be where I am today. 

As someone who has been involved with LebNet, what role do you see yourself playing in the future of this organization? 

As LebNet continues to expand, we, the senior members, have made the decision to step back and empower the younger generation to chart the course, devise effective strategies, and develop plans for LebNet’s growth. It is their fresh perspectives and innovative approaches that will enable us to engage more individuals in fulfilling LebNet’s mission of networking, nurturing, and connecting Lebanese-American professionals in the Bay Area community and beyond. While we take on a support role, we remain available to offer assistance and support to the new leadership team as needed.

Where would you like LebNet to be in the future?

It would be beneficial for LebNet to become the voice of the Lebanese-American professionals and establish ties with business communities across North America. By doing so, we can effectively promote the value and expertise, thereby enhancing awareness and recognition of our community as a whole. This forward-thinking approach will contribute to the overall growth and prominence of our community on a broader scale.

Fadwa Mohanna, CEO and Founder of One37, is spearheading the company's emergence as a leading provider of decentralized identity solutions. One37 empowers individuals and organizations to securely store, manage, and verify digital identities and credentials using Distributed Ledger Technology and AI technology.

Having experienced the challenges of proving one’s identity during her extensive travels, Fadwa founded One37 to provide a seamless identity verification experience. “One37 Digital Identity Wallet” serves as a secure repository for personal credentials, on your phone, that can be easily accessed and shared with service providers such as banks, telecom companies, and airlines for identity verification purposes. Users maintain complete control and ownership of their data, while enjoying the convenience of streamlined identity verification.

Fadwa is a highly experienced professional in information technology and services. She graduated with a BE in Communications and Computer Engineering from the American University of Beirut in 1991 and later pursued her MBA in Management at ESA Business School. Fadwa has held leadership positions at prominent companies like Orascom Telecom, Nokia Siemens Network, and Nakheel. She was involved in launching large-scale telecom operations in various countries, including Lebanon, Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and the United Arab Emirates.  In 2015, she founded Micity. Fadwa's passion for entrepreneurship stems from her desire to solve significant problems, make a deep impact, and improve people's lives. She is an active member of the Women's Entrepreneurs Community and focuses on topics such as AI & DLT.

Furthermore, Fadwa is a member of the LebNet Toronto steering committee and recently received the RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Award for the Ones to Watch Award, recognizing entrepreneurs who have launched impactful businesses in under three years. Most recently, she has been named a finalist for the 2023 Top 25 Canadian Immigrant, with voting open until June 9th.  To show your support, please visit this link. 

In honor of International Women’s Day 2023, LebNet celebrated throughout the month of March the many inspiring women tech leaders who have made it a point in their career to support and empower other women. We’re proud to have many great examples as part of our LebNet team.

To recap our March activity on social media, we have listed below the month’s main highlights. 

LebNet WiT’s Fellows: 

In honor of IWD 2023, LebNet Women in Tech (WiT) Community is celebrating this year’s 25 WiT fellows. The WiT fellowship program, led by Aya Mouallem (WiT outreach lead), equips the next generation of Lebanese women technologists, studying at AUB, LAU, and the Lebanese University with the skills needed to succeed in tech careers post-university. Join us in celebrating these women and women all over the world as we work together for a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that's diverse, equitable, and inclusive.

Quotes from LebNet women leaders

In honor of Women’s History Month, join us in celebrating these amazing Women Leaders who support other women. 

Thank you Aya Mouallem for driving all aspects of the LebNet Fellowship program aimed at empowering women in tech with great life tools!  You are an inspiration and a true leader!  LebNet is proud of your accomplishments!

Thank you Karine Sarkissian for being a leader in the Founder’s world and a great Co-lead to our LebNet Women in Tech community. LebNet is grateful for your passion, leadership and support! 

Thank you Ayah Bdeir: an entrepreneur, engineer, social activist and inventor of littleBits. Ayah spent 10 years of her career growing her company littleBits and is now driving to make the tech world more equitable and diverse in addition to helping other founders succeed. 

Thank you Layal Rouhana for being a LebNet board member and for leading the LebNet Women in Tech community and its mentorship program. We are so grateful for your passion and efforts to empower tech women to reach their full potential!