My Career
October 2017 - Present
Delos
Executive Vice President, Head of MENA Region
Delos is a global wellness leader with a mission to enhance health and well-being in the spaces where we live, work, learn and play. From the beginning, the vision has been simple: all indoor spaces should promote and support health and well-being. Delos leverages its expertise in health sciences and building sciences to curate and develop products, programs and solutions that transform indoor environments into vehicles for health, well-being, performance and resilience.
July 2023- Present
International WELL Building Institute (IWBI)
Vice President, Head of MENA Region
The International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) leads a global movement to transform health and well-being with a people-first approach to buildings, organizations, and communities. Using the WELL Building Standard (WELL), a scientifically backed roadmap, IWBI certifies spaces that promote human health and well-being. As the largest certification platform for healthy buildings, IWBI spans 132 countries and over 5.1 billion square feet. WELL supports physical and mental health through 10 core concepts, with rigorous performance standards verified by a third party, applicable from single spaces to entire organizations.
January 2016 - March 2018
West Virginia State University
College Instructor
West Virginia State University (WVSU), established in 1891, is a historically black public university located in Institute, West Virginia. It offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including arts, sciences, business, education, and technology. Known for its commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and cultural diversity, WVSU provides a supportive and inclusive environment for its students. The university emphasizes hands-on learning experiences, research opportunities, and leadership development, preparing students to excel in their careers and contribute positively to society.
July 2011 - Present
Tekha Group
Founder/CEO
Tekha Group was founded by Tekha Selim, who changed his life for the better in numerous ways. He was driven to help others overcome their own battles and achieve a healthy lifestyle. To achieve this, he collaborated with like-minded professionals globally and started sponsoring various events, seminars, and producing motivational videos. Tekha Selim firmly believed that his mantra of “Dream, Believe, Achieve” was applicable to anyone who had a goal, be it weight loss, quitting smoking, becoming a better athlete, or something else. As a result, Tekha Group evolved into an organization that promoted healthy physical, mental, and emotional lifestyles.
February 21-25, 2016
“Solutions for a Better Life” International Health Conference
Founder
The Solutions for Better Life conference was organized by Tekha Group in collaboration with the World Health Organization, University of Sharjah, and West Virginia State University. The conference brought together thousands of scholars, researchers, professionals, and students from around the world to the UAE, where they discussed ways to improve people’s lives. The conference drew representatives from government and major corporations and received widespread media attention. Leading experts and scholars in the healthcare field attended the international conference to identify and address global health challenges. Additionally, the conference featured an academic symposium and a World Future Leaders Program that involved high school and university students competing from more than 100 countries.
December 12, 2022
The Future of Health, Wellness & Innovation Forum
Founder (In collaboration with Delos CEO)
The Future of Health, Wellness & Innovation Forum focused on how health and well-being were directly tied to the buildings and communities people spent most of their time indoors, and how healthier and smarter buildings had a direct impact on environmental and sustainability goals. At the Forum, regional and global leaders from several sectors addressed the progress that had been made so far and how they could foster the growth of the WELL healthy building movement through meaningful collaborations between partner organizations both in the UAE and Globally. The Forum featured a lineup of governmental and private sector executives who were both in attendance and spoke during the event.
January 2022 - Present
Qaderoon Youth Foundation
Ambassador & Board Member
Qaderoon Youth Foundation is a non-profit organization that aims to promote sustainable development and national awareness among young people in Egypt. The foundation is registered with the Ministry of Social Solidarity under number 11492. Qaderoon Youth Foundation offers various programs and activities to empower youth, create decent job opportunities, foster social cohesion, and address the challenges that hinder development. Qaderoon Youth Foundation believes that youth are capable of leading positive change and contributing to the prosperity of their country.
January 2014 - July 2015
MPAC Sports
Global Business Development Manager
MPAC Sports Launched into the Gulf region in 2007 and trains over 10 thousand kids Annually. MPAC Sports has established the most unique basketball and Athlete development framework in the MENA Region. The Flagship Dubai basketball School provides unique opportunities for dedicated student athletes training with certified International Coaches from the USA and around the Globe.
February 2010– January 2014
Cleopatra Sports Services
Managing Director, Cleopatra Sports Services
Cleopatra Sports Services is a dynamic sports company with a strong international presence, operating across UAE and Egypt. The organization provides a wide range of sports activities and services tailored to both kids and adults, with a focus on exceptional quality and global standards. Cleopatra’s services encompass a comprehensive suite of skills, including planning, organizing, directing, controlling, leading, and evaluating within the realm of sports.
Professional Experience
- Led the creation of quality business plans to penetrate the MENA market and made thoughtful and strategic recommendations to the CEO on potential opportunities.
- Conducted market research and analysis to identify new business opportunities and emerging trends.
- Developed and implemented strategic plans to expand the company’s customer base and increase revenue growth.
- Successfully represented Delos/IWBI by delivering compelling presentations at numerous events, conferences, and television appearances to promote the brand and increase awareness among the target audience.
- Navigated the intricacies of the Middle East market to secure critical government and commercial adoption and endorsement of Delos/WELL’s programs.
- Pioneered the introduction of the WELL movement to the MENA region, leading to the organization and management of over 85+ successful events and training sessions which played an integral role in promoting the WELL services throughout the region.
- Played a key role in driving the adoption of WELL in thousands of buildings across the region, resulting in over 1 billion sqft. of projects, contributing significantly to the growth and success of the organization.
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with high-level government organizations at the highest level, including the UAE Prime Minister’s Office, Dubai Police, The Crown Prince’s University (HBMSU), Dubai Municipality, Expo2020, Dubai Land Department, the Museum of the Future, and others, to drive successful partnerships between Delos and government, commercial and education leaders in the region.
- Managed and worked with top conglomerates in the region, including Majid Al Futtaim, Nakheel, EMAAR, AlDar, Dubai Holding, Mubadala, Al Futtaim Group, Damac, Deyaar, ADNOC, Misk Foundation, Public Investment Fund (PIF), Saudi Aramco, Stantec, ICD Brookfield, HSBC, and others.
- Introduced the company to high-profile clients in the MENA market, resulting in an increase in revenue.
- Negotiated contracts and agreements with clients to ensure profitable and long-term partnerships.
- Trained and mentored junior business development associates to enhance their skills and productivity.
- Orchestrated a highly successful Future of Health, Wellness & Innovation Forum in December 2022, hosted at the prestigious Museum of the Future in collaboration with the Dubai Government.
- Developed comprehensive business plans tailored to the MENA market and provided strategic advice to the CEO and COO on viable opportunities.
- Conducted in-depth market analysis to discover new business avenues and spot emerging industry trends.
- Executed strategies aimed at expanding the company’s client base and driving revenue growth.
- Acted as a key representative for IWBI, delivering impactful presentations at numerous events, conferences, and media engagements to enhance brand visibility.
- Successfully maneuvered and navigated through the Middle East market’s complexities to achieve key governmental and commercial endorsements for WELL programs.
- Spearheaded the introduction of the WELL movement in the MENA region, overseeing more than 85 events and training sessions that were pivotal in promoting WELL services.
- Played a crucial role in the widespread adoption of WELL standards, leading to over 1 billion sqft. of registered/certified projects and significantly advancing the organization’s growth.
- Established and maintained relationships with top-tier government organizations, including the UAE Prime Minister’s Office, Dubai Police, The Crown Prince’s University (HBMSU), Expo2020, Dubai Land Department, and the Museum of the Future, fostering successful partnerships.
- Collaborated with leading conglomerates in the region such as Majid Al Futtaim, Nakheel, EMAAR, AlDar, Dubai Holding, Mubadala, Al Futtaim Group, Damac, Deyaar, ADNOC, Misk Foundation, Public Investment Fund (PIF), Saudi Aramco, Stantec, ICD Brookfield, HSBC, and others.
- Effectively instructed and engaged students through multiple class sections, leading to consistently high student evaluations and positive feedback.
- Conducted and marked all exams, projects, and assignments in a timely and organized manner, meeting all departmental and institutional deadlines.
- Contributed to the growth and development of the communication studies department by developing and implementing new teaching strategies.
- Served as a resource to students by providing constructive feedback, academic support, and career guidance.
- Designed and implemented course syllabi, lesson plans, and instructional materials that fostered critical thinking and effective communication skills in students.
- Delivered engaging lectures and facilitated discussions on various topics related to speech communication techniques, race, gender, and human identity, encouraging students to analyze and reflect on these complex issues.
- Developed and administered assessments, including exams, essays, and presentations, to evaluate students’ understanding and progress. Provided constructive feedback to help students improve their skills and knowledge.
- Offered academic advising and mentorship to students, assisting them with their academic and career goals. Provided additional support for students needing extra help with course material.
- Collaborated with colleagues across different departments to create interdisciplinary learning experiences, integrating perspectives from various fields to enrich students’ understanding of race, gender, and human identity.
- Engaged in ongoing research and professional development activities to stay current with the latest trends in speech communications and social identity studies, incorporating new insights into the classroom.
- Lead an 85-member, international non-profit organization that promotes healthy lifestyle programs all over the world.
- Collaborated with Michelle Obama’s initiative, Next Move, by partnering with the President’s Council on Health, Fitness, and Nutrition to deliver events and speaking engagements in the USA.
- Delivered 170+ motivational speeches to hundreds of thousands of people around the globe.
- Keynote speaker at prestigious events, including the International Solutions for a Better Life Conference (2016), USA press conference in Washington, DC (2015), TEDx University of Sharjah (2014-2015), University of Sharjah UAE press conference (2014), and 3rd Health Program at the University of Jazeera (2014).
- Featured in various media outlets for contributions to promoting healthy living.
- Organized and managed 15 Government initiatives in the UAE to promote healthy living and physical activity, including directing the Healthy Lifestyle Program at Car Free Day for Dubai Municipality and top dignitaries in Dubai (2014) and organizing Seminars for the Ministry of Health (2014).
- Collaborated on Programs and initiatives with Dubai Police (2015), and initiated Sports Programs for Dubai Municipality, Dubai Police, and Police Academy at the National Environmental Day (2014).
- Organized a Symposium for 300 Scouts from all over the world attending the UAE’s Scout Association’s 6th International Scout Gathering (2015)
- Pioneered a partnership between the University of Sharjah and West Virginia State University, serving as a catalyst to establish a Memorandum of Understanding between the two institutions.
- Spearheaded communication efforts between UOS Chancellor and WVSU President to ensure successful collaboration and planning for the conference, demonstrating strong leadership and coordination skills.
- Collaborated closely with UOS Chancellor on a daily basis, meticulously managing programming, logistics, and publicity for the conference.
- Distinguished member of the high-level organizing committee for the conference, attending critical meetings with the Conference Organizing Committee and various other committees related to the conference.
- Effectively managed all aspects of travel and meetings for the US delegation, overseeing trip planning and logistics to UOS.
- Demonstrated exceptional diplomacy and communication skills by personally travelling to Egypt to invite the Minister of Youth and Sports to attend the conference, as well as to Washington, DC, where I met with key stakeholders such as the Executive Director of the President’s Council for Fitness, Sports, and Nutrition, UAE Embassy attaché, WVSU’s President, and other prominent representatives.
- Founded and organized the Future of Health, Wellness & Innovation Forum in Dubai, an annual event that brings together global experts and thought leaders to explore the latest advances in science, technology, innovation, and design related to human health and wellbeing.
- Spearheaded the event’s organization from start to finish, drawing a diverse audience of influential UAE and MENA region conglomerates and government organizations.
- Developed the concept, vision, and overall strategy for the conference in collaboration with Delos’ CEO, ensuring that it aligned with the latest trends and needs in the field of well-being.
- Secured high-profile speakers, sponsors, and exhibitors to participate in the event, including industry leaders, academics, and government officials.
- Oversaw all aspects of event planning, including budgeting, marketing, logistics, and program development, ensuring that the conference was delivered on time, within budget, and to a high standard.
- Successfully attracted a diverse range of attendees, including CEOs, C-suite members from conglomerates, investors, university presidents, professionals, researchers, and members of the public, while fostering significant connections and collaborations among them.
- Received positive feedback from participants, sponsors, and stakeholders, and built a strong reputation for the conference as a leading platform for promoting well-being and showcasing the latest advancements in the region.
- Played a key role in developing and implementing the foundation’s strategic plan, ensuring alignment with its mission of promoting sustainable development and national awareness among young people in Egypt. Set goals, monitored progress, and made necessary adjustments.
- Leveraged my network to advocate for the foundation’s initiatives, building strong relationships with key stakeholders. Engaged with community leaders, government officials, and other organizations to garner support and enhance collaboration.
- Contributed to the design and execution of programs and activities that advanced the foundation’s objectives. Ensured these programs were effective and impactful in promoting sustainable development and national awareness.
- Actively engaged with the community by attending events, participating in discussions, and fostering a sense of involvement and ownership among young people.
- Promoted the foundation’s work through public speaking, social media, and other communication channels, raising awareness and encouraging participation.
- Continuously monitored the effectiveness of the foundation’s initiatives and made adjustments as needed to ensure the achievement of its goals and mission.
- Drove revenue growth through strategic global sponsorship initiatives, resulting in $800K in generated revenue.
- Conducted extensive market research to inform advertising and outreach efforts.
- Directed the creation of compelling promotional materials and executed outreach activities, resulting in over 20,000 new contacts.
- Fostered positive, lasting relationships with corporate sponsors and high-profile notable individuals in the industry,
- Orchestrated the MPAC Elite International Tournament, effectively coordinating communication across departments and raising profits that exceeded $1.75M.
- Secured $900K+ in basketball scholarships for our players to attend American Universities, further bolstering the organization’s success.
- Worked part-time with the company contributing to various aspects of the business.
- Assisted with marketing initiatives to promote the company’s products and services.
- Communicated with customers to provide information and resolve issues, resulting in improved customer satisfaction
- Helped in organizing sports events to promote brand awareness and community engagement.
- Helped manage social media accounts, creating content and responding to inquiries to enhance online presence.
- Collaborated with team members to develop and implement new marketing strategies.
- Maintained accurate records of marketing and event expenses, ensuring adherence to budgetary constraints.
- Demonstrated strong organizational and multitasking abilities, balancing schoolwork and work responsibilities
- Developed valuable communication and customer service skills, contributing to personal and professional growth.