14 Lebanese Ranked Among Forbes Middle East's 30 Under 30
Forbes Middle East's latest 30 Under 30 list celebrates the achievements of fourteen remarkable Lebanese individuals . These young talents, excelling in various fields, are making significant contributions both locally and internationally. The list includes:
1. Hussein Ibrahim Ayoub (27)
Forbes Middle East
Ayoub holds the pivotal role of Director for the Middle East & Africa at EDT & Partners, a firm dedicated to driving transformative change in the educational landscape. His innovative spirit led to the establishment of the Youth Innovation Council, a collaborative effort with the Professional Computer Association of Lebanon.
Furthermore, Ayoub played a crucial role in co-founding the MENA EdTech Alliance, which fosters connections among EdTech companies, startups, and regional experts. He is also renowned for co-founding and leading the Unlearn/Relearn event. This event is a melting pot for industry leaders, educators, and students, where they delve into new concepts and evolving trends shaping the future job market.
2. Ghassan Oweidat (28)
Forbes Middle East
Oueidat has been a game-changer in the field of robotics with his creation of an autonomous robotic cleaner, specifically designed for skyscraper windows, potentially transforming the traditional methods of high-rise maintenance. His innovative project, Spicedr, caught the eye of Berytech, earning it funding in 2018.
The following year marked a significant milestone when he co-founded Asymptotic Robotics, focusing on the production of ANKABOT, a facade-cleaning robot. This venture was bolstered by an impressive $120,000 in grants and awards. Oueidat's expertise extends beyond robotics; he and his team have published two research papers on a novel instrument designed to measure and monitor oil spill thickness in open seas.
This work garnered attention and collaboration with the U.S. government, leading to the design of a specialized sensor, funding from the government, and a patent. Amidst the challenges of the pandemic, Oueidat and a colleague launched Devups, a staff augmentation company, which they successfully sold later on.
3. Nour Suleiman (27)
Forbes Middle East
Cartlow, co-founded by Suleiman, stands at the forefront of reverse logistics solutions. The platform uniquely enables the purchase and sale of returned and used products, which are recycled and refurbished. This process effectively reduces waste, as evidenced by Cartlow's sale of over two million products since its inception, significantly cutting down carbon emissions by over 36 million kg and reducing waste by 6 million kg.
Impressively, Cartlow has raised $23 million in funding, boasts 1.2 million registered users, and receives two million visits monthly. Currently operating in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait, the company exemplifies leadership in this sector across the region.
4. Al Walid Hallani (22)
Forbes Middle East
El Hallani, a rising star in the music world, has seen his song “Zeffo El Amar” soar in popularity, amassing over six million views on YouTube in just four months. As of November 2023, his YouTube channel boasts an impressive 57.7 million views, while on Anghami, his tracks have been played over 20.4 million times.
On Spotify, he has captivated more than 322,000 monthly listeners. His hit song “Galatli” continues to resonate with fans, having accumulated over 8.2 million views on YouTube in three years. Adding to his allure is his familial connection to the renowned Lebanese singer Assi El Hallani, making Al Walid a legacy in the Lebanese music scene.
5. Ahmad Haffar (28)
Forbes Middle East
Dubbed “the voice of Dubai,” Haffar has made an indelible mark in the world of audio production. His talents have been showcased across 71 companies, providing voiceovers for over 100 brands, including more than 20 prestigious government entities. Despite leaving school early, Haffar's journey has been nothing short of remarkable. He became a partner at “Mindloop Studios” in 2017, a testament to his prowess in audio production.
Beyond his studio work, Haffar has ventured into education, establishing an academy that imparts skills in creative media. His collaboration with STARZPLAY for his first comedy show is yet another feather in his cap, showcasing his versatility and creative flair.
6. Jad Hobeika (27)
Forbes Middle East
In 2019, Hobeika joined the esteemed Maison Georges Hobeika, culminating in his appointment as Co-Creative Director alongside his father, Georges Hobeika, in June 2022. His debut with the maison was marked by the Couture Fall/Winter 2019-2020 collection, showcasing his innate flair for design.
In 2021, Hobeika played a pivotal role in the maison's introduction of its first official ready-to-wear SS22 collection, which was uniquely presented through a virtual runway show. Maison Georges Hobeika's prominence in the fashion world is further highlighted by its clientele of celebrities like Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, Lady Gaga, Heidi Klum, Ashley Graham, Cardi B, Alessandra Ambrosio, Rita Ora, and Jennifer Lopez, all of whom have adorned the brand's exquisite designs.
7. Patrick Sawaya (28)
Forbes Middle East
Since the inception of his business in 2013, Sawaya has carved a niche in the fashion industry, working alongside illustrious fashion houses such as Dior, Givenchy, Saint Laurent, Chaumet, Bulgari, and Van Cleef & Arpels. His expertise has shone brightly at high-profile events like Paris Fashion Week, London Fashion Week, the Cannes Film Festival, the Red Sea International Film Festival, and the amfAR Gala Cannes.
Sawaya's portfolio is studded with collaborations with top models like Izabel Goulart, Naomi Campbell, Isabeli Fontana, and a host of Arab celebrities. Moreover, his creative prowess extends to producing fashion shows and films for renowned designers like Elie Saab, Georges Hobeika, Rami Kadi, Zuhair Murad, and Hussein Bazaza, showcasing his versatility and influence in the fashion realm.