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NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

  • 04 Jun 2025 4:40 AM | Anonymous
    Lynn Doughane – Empowering the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs

    Lynn Doughane is an electrical engineer by training and Master’s graduate from Polytechnique Montréal. She’s also the co-founder and COO of Juno Technologies, an award-winning medtech startup revolutionizing menstrual pain management. Drawing on her diverse background and heritage, Lynn is dedicated to driving change in women’s health, where research and innovation are greatly needed.

    1. What inspired you to launch your own startup, and how has your Lebanese background influenced your journey as a founder?

    What inspired me to start this company was a shared frustration with my co-founder. We couldn’t find an effective, drug-free solution for managing menstrual pain. This motivated us to leverage our knowledge and create a new approach.

    My Lebanese background has given me resilience and ambition, qualities that have been essential in overcoming the many challenges of building a startup.

    2. Tell us about your startup and what are some of the challenges you are facing with it? How do you plan to overcome them?

    My startup, Juno Technologies, has developed a patent-pending medical device that has demonstrated a 79% reduction in menstrual pain in pilot studies, offering a drug-free and side-effect-free alternative.

    As we are approaching the commercialization phase, it comes with its own set of challenges. We’re focused on building strong partnerships and securing the necessary resources to support a successful launch and sustainable growth.

    3. What advice would you give to other aspiring founders looking to make an impact in their industries?

    Focus on the problem, not just the solution. Take the time to understand what people are struggling with because that’s what will help you create something they actually need.


    Rami Monla – Bridging Cognitive Science and Technology

    Rami Monla is a recent graduate from McGill University with a degree in Cognitive Science, an interdisciplinary field that combines computer science, linguistics, neuroscience and psychology. His academic background, at the intersection of technology and the humanities, provides him with a unique perspective on how people and technology interact. Rami is passionate about exploring the applications of cognitive science in today’s digital landscape and looks forward to contributing to the LebNet community through mentorship and innovative projects.

    1. How have your studies in Cognitive Science shaped your perspective on technology?

    Cognitive Science taught me to approach technology not just as a technical tool, but as something deeply connected to how people think, behave, and interact. The interdisciplinary nature of my degree, blending computer science, neuroscience, psychology and linguistics, forced me to have a more expansive view of tech. This is all the more relevant in the age of AI, where putting humans at the center of technology is a priority.

    2. Can you share an experience where your interdisciplinary knowledge provided a unique solution to a technical challenge?

    I’ll use my favourite Covid project to answer this question! At the height of the pandemic, small businesses were struggling worldwide, including in my hometown of Montreal. With lots of time on my hands, I developed a chatbot that would recommend small businesses, nice parks and local spots to users. While programming skills are certainly necessary in a project like this, I really couldn’t have done it without my knowledge of linguistics. Understanding users’ prompts was a real technical challenge that required knowledge from a non-technical field. I should note, this was before the ChatGPT days.

    3. What are your aspirations within the LebNet community, and how do you plan to bridge the gap between cognitive science and technology?

    My motivation for joining LebNet is to connect with like-minded Lebanese people, from students and early-career professionals to seasoned experts across the tech world. As someone just starting out, I’m excited to grow within this community, learn from others’ experiences, and eventually give back by contributing my own perspective. I hope to bring fresh energy and initiative to LebNet!

    With a background in Cognitive Science, I’m especially interested in bridging the gap between human understanding and technological development. Whether it’s through discussions around ethical AI, user-centered design, or interdisciplinary collaboration, I’m happy to help bring a more human lens to the technologies we create and use.


    Rhéa Tabet – Empowering Businesses with AI Solutions

    Rhéa Tabet is a pharmacology graduate from McGill University - now an Account Executive at Botpress, where she specializes in helping businesses integrate cutting-edge AI technologies. With a deep interest in leveraging artificial intelligence to solve real-world problems, Rhéa is passionate about building smarter customer engagement solutions. Her connection to her Lebanese roots drives her commitment to community and innovation, reflecting the spirit of resilience and progress.

    1. How has your work at Botpress shaped your understanding of the role of AI in transforming customer experiences?

    Working at Botpress has placed me at the forefront of the AI revolution. I’ve seen firsthand how intelligent automation can transform customer experiences and drive measurable business value. Guiding clients through full implementations - identifying high-impact use cases and optimizing workflows - has deepened my understanding of how AI can meaningfully increase productivity and scale support functions without compromising quality.

    2. Can you share a memorable project where you helped a business harness AI to overcome a significant challenge?

    One standout project involved helping a company struggling with an overwhelmed support team and high volumes of repetitive inquiries. We deployed an AI agent on their technical support portal, which significantly reduced their manual workload. As a result, their team could focus on more strategic initiatives. The collaboration was smooth, the impact was immediate, and it remains one of the most rewarding projects I've been part of.

    3. How has your Lebanese heritage influenced your approach to technology and innovation?

    My Lebanese heritage has instilled in me a strong sense of community, adaptability, and people-centric thinking, traits that serve me daily in business development. Being naturally relationship-driven and solution-oriented helps me connect meaningfully with clients and navigate challenges with creativity and resilience. Growing up in a culture that values connection and resourcefulness has shaped both my communication style and my approach to innovation.

  • 29 May 2025 5:08 AM | Anonymous

    We’re thrilled to welcome Bassel Haidar to the LebNet DC leadership team! Bassel leads AI for the civilian sector at Booz Allen and is a seasoned tech executive who has spearheaded major AI initiatives across federal, state, and local governments. With deep expertise in AI, analytics, and software development, Bassel is widely recognized as a thought leader in the space, and we’re excited for the insights he’ll bring to our community.

    We asked Bassel two questions to help you get to know him better:

    Why did you choose to get involved with LebNet, and what does this community mean to you?

    "Success means more when it’s shared. LebNet is a launchpad where Lebanese tech talent lifts one another higher, where “we” towers over “me.” I’m here to pay forward the mentorship that propelled me and ignite the next wave of innovators with our hard-won lessons."

    What opportunities or trends in AI and technology are you most excited to share with the LebNet community?

    "Every industry is being rewritten and reimagined with AI. Picture waking up to find your “digital co-workers” have shipped code, balanced the books, and mapped tomorrow’s marketing plan while you slept. I’m eager to swap blueprints for building, scaling, and governing these agents responsibly, and to ignite bold, brain-sparking conversations with the powerhouse talent of LebNet."

    Please join us in welcoming Bassel to the team!


  • 09 May 2025 4:32 AM | Anonymous

    We are thrilled to welcome Ghada Saliba-Malouf to the LebNet Board of Directors. Ghada is a distinguished legal executive with over three decades of experience in corporate law, financial services, and social impact. She most recently served as Managing Director and Associate General Counsel at Wells Fargo, where she led high-impact legal teams and initiatives focused on employee development and engagement.

    A passionate advocate for mentorship, women’s rights, and the Lebanese diaspora, Ghada has also served as Board Chair of Equal Rights Advocates, Chair of the San Francisco Human Rights Commission, and is currently Vice-Chair of the Board of the Arab Film and Media Institute.

    Ghada’s deep ties to Lebanon and long-standing support for nonprofits reflect her unwavering commitment to giving back. As a LebNet Board member, she will help guide our strategic direction and champion opportunities for Lebanese professionals in tech and beyond.

    Please join us in welcoming Ghada Saliba-Malouf to the LebNet Board of Directors!

  • 09 May 2025 4:25 AM | Anonymous

    We are delighted to announce that Mouhamad Rabah, CEO of ZEAL and the Beirut Digital District (BDD), has officially joined the LebNet Board of Directors.

    With a visionary track record in building purpose-driven innovation hubs, Mouhamad has played a pivotal role in transforming Lebanon’s tech and entrepreneurship landscape. Under his leadership, BDD has become a leading center for digital and creative industries, empowering startups, talent, and communities to thrive.

    Mouhamad’s commitment to nurturing youth through Forward MENA and his efforts to bridge academia and industry at AUB’s Innovation Park speak to his deep-rooted passion for impact and sustainable growth. His ability to unite sectors and scale initiatives across Lebanon aligns closely with LebNet’s mission to connect and empower Lebanese professionals worldwide.

    As a Board member, Mouhamad helps guide LebNet’s strategic efforts to bridge North American expertise with Lebanon’s entrepreneurial future.

    Please join us in welcoming Mouhamad to the LebNet Board!


  • 09 May 2025 4:18 AM | Anonymous

    We are proud to announce that Danny Hamady, Founder and CEO of Momentum Microsystems, has officially joined the LebNet Board of Directors.

    With over 30 years of experience at the forefront of innovation in life sciences, biotech, and medical computing, Danny brings exceptional leadership and deep technical expertise to our community. His work has enabled scientific and healthcare advancements globally, powered by sophisticated computing platforms designed for complex environments.

    Beyond his professional accomplishments, Danny is known for his generosity, humility, and unwavering commitment to giving back. His strong ties to Lebanon and long-standing involvement in charitable initiatives embody the spirit of service and connection that drives LebNet’s mission.

    Danny has already been a dedicated supporter of the LebNet community. As a Board member, he brings a powerful combination of entrepreneurial drive and philanthropic vision that will help guide and expand our efforts to empower Lebanese professionals in tech and beyond.

    Please join us in warmly welcoming Danny to the LebNet Board!


  • 09 May 2025 4:09 AM | Anonymous

    We are thrilled to announce that Jibran Jahshan, Vice President of Software at NVIDIA, has officially joined the LebNet Board of Directors.

    With over 21 years of experience in building global organizations, delivering transformative projects, and advancing AI-driven technologies, Jibran brings invaluable expertise and leadership to our community. A dedicated mentor and advocate for Lebanese technologists and entrepreneurs, Jibran has been the leader of LebNet’s Bay Area community, the largest in our network, fostering connections and opportunities for growth.

    As a Board member, Jibran will play a key role in shaping LebNet’s initiatives and expanding our impact across North America and beyond. We are excited to collaborate and leverage Jibran’s insights to further empower the Lebanese tech ecosystem.

    Please join us in welcoming Jibran to the LebNet Board!


  • 27 Apr 2025 9:28 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    LebNet was proud to team up once again with the Lebanese Collegiate Network (LCN) for their 17th Annual Convention this past weekend! Sponsored by LebNet, the LCN STEM Award recognizes outstanding subscribing students who demonstrate academic excellence, serve as ambassadors of Lebanese heritage, and lead among their peers. The award includes a $500 scholarship for one deserving undergraduate or graduate student.

    This year, we are thrilled to congratulate Sosse Minassian on being selected as the 2025 LebNet/LCN STEM Award recipient!


    The event was also attended by several of our LebNet LA/OC Youth AmbassadorsChristopher Bou-Saab, Kareem Dibs, Laura Gholmieh, and Mary Jo Harika — who represented the LebNet community with pride and enthusiasm.


    A big thank you to LCN for the partnership and for continuing to highlight the achievements of Lebanese students across North America.

  • 02 Apr 2025 1:12 PM | Anonymous

    On March 14th, the LebNet Tech Fellows Program hosted its first in-person mixer of the year, bringing together fellows for an engaging and interactive evening. Since launching in January 2025, this was the first opportunity for the cohort to meet face-to-face, fostering meaningful connections in a dynamic and welcoming environment.

    The LebNet Tech Fellows Program is a 5-month fellowship dedicated to nurturing the next generation of Lebanese technologists by providing them with the skills, mentorship, and network needed to successfully transition into tech careers post-university. With the program now at its midway point, this gathering was the perfect moment to unite fellows from 13 universities across Lebanon, reinforcing the importance of networking, collaboration, and community-building.

    The event was led and organized by Tech Fellows graduates Batoul Hammoud and Nour ElSemrani along with Ghida Tabesh, LebNet's Communication Specialist, showcasing the impact of mentorship and peer leadership in driving the program’s success.

    A special highlight of the evening was the introduction of “Bridging the Gap”, an initiative founded by Claritta Khoury, Jana Ayoub and Raghad Agha, graduates from the previous cohort. This inspiring program aims to empower female tech enthusiasts and encourage them to explore control engineering, showcasing the long-term impact of the Tech Fellows community.

    We extend our gratitude to LAU for hosting us and supporting our mission to empower young Lebanese talent to excel in tech. As the Tech Fellows continue their journey, we are eager to see them grow, innovate, and forge lasting professional relationships that will shape their careers.

    As we enter the second half of the program, we look forward to our next in-person event, where we will celebrate their achievements at this year’s graduation ceremony!


  • 26 Mar 2025 11:12 AM | Anonymous


    In response to the escalation in Lebanon in September 2024, LebNet and LIFE launched the Lebanon Education Emergency Fund (LEEF), raising $540,000 to support students whose education was disrupted, thanks to the generosity of both communities.

    Our commitment was to channel these funds to impactful educational initiatives through trusted organizations. After careful assessment, we partnered with five NGOs:

    • Ajialouna: Providing tuition support for school students.
    • Bassma: Offering tuition assistance and salary subsidies for school psychologists.
    • Beit El Baraka & Nafda (Joint Initiative): Delivering tuition support, psychosocial support, community-building activities for students, and teacher training.
    • Ruwwad Al Tanmeya: Providing tuition, psychosocial support, and life/technical skills training.

    Impact Overview:

    • Over 2,200 students receiving tuition support across 35 schools.
    • Over 4,700 students benefiting from psychosocial, capacity-building, and community engagement workshops.
    • 200 teachers undergoing capacity-building training.

    These projects focus on some of the most affected areas, including Akkar, Alma El Chaab, Baalbeck, Beirut, Ersal, Hermel, Nabatieh, Saida, Tripoli, and Tyre.

    We sincerely thank everyone involved in the LEEF initiative, especially our donors and the members of LebNet and LIFE. Your generosity has provided a lifeline to students in Lebanon, helping ensure that they continue their education and have hope for a brighter future.

    With the LEEF initiative’s fundraising now officially closed, stay tuned to ongoing milestone updates.

  • 02 Oct 2024 8:44 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    LebNet in partnership with LIFE, is launching a NY Pitch Night on Thursday, October 17, at the Offices of Gibson, Dunn and Crutcher LLP, followed by networking drinks.

    This event will showcase 8 Lebanese entrepreneurs, giving them a platform to present their ventures, meet potential investors, and expand their network. Prior to the event, they will also receive hands-on support from mentors from the LIFE or LebNet networks.

    If you haven’t booked yet, please do so by Friday, October 11, as places are limited.

    To kick off the evening, we’ll host a Fireside Chat: "Meet the Founders Who Secured $70M+ in VC Funding." Habib Kairouz, Managing Partner at Rho Capital, will lead an engaging discussion featuring 3 accomplished Lebanese entrepreneurs: Khaled Kteily (founder and CEO of Legacy), Alice Nawfal (co-founder and COO of Notabene), and Patrick Obeid (CEO of ESG Flo). Together, they will share insights into their startup journeys and how they successfully raised multi-million-dollar investments.

    The following companies have been selected by the committee:

    We'd like to express our gratitude to E14 and RHO for generously sponsoring the event, as well as our outreach partners—BDD, Endeavor, Viaka, and the NY alumni chapters of LAU and AUB. A special thank you to LIFE Board Member, Marwan Azzi, for hosting us at his offices.



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