is the creative force behind her design offices of Mona Hussein Design House -MHDH- & Mahally. She first launched a lighting showroom ‐Temple of Light‐ in 1992 in the World Trade Center of Cairo. In 1993, Mona established -MHDH- Office, a 28-year-old company today. -MHDH- is an award-winning medium sized design firm housing 50 employees and has a design history of over 400 projects locally and internationally. It is regionally recognized for its comprehensive and individualistic design solutions for residences, offices, commercial spaces, hospitality, medical institutes, sales centers, retail spaces, exhibition booths, mock ups and yachts that are channeled through an equilibrium between a cultural environment and a contemporary design. Honing her passion for design, she expanded her interior design house to include landscape design, architecture design, product design, signage & wayfinding, branding, an interior design academy MHIDA and the MAHALLY AWARD competition. As a designer, Mona Hussein understands the importance of creating unique and inspiring yet functional spaces for her clients whether the project is residential, commercial, hospitality, architecture or landscape.
Being part of an award-winning project "Designopolis", “Na3na3” restaurant which won the interior bronze A’ Design Award, “The Ripple Applique” and “The Positive & Negative” screen that won the golden A’ Design Award, Mona Hussein has made her mark on many of Egypt's most unique, distinctive and elegant interiors, projects and products. In addition to leading a creative and ambitious team of designers and architects, Mona Hussein keeps the creative juices flowing by encouraging the team to seek inspiration from the smallest of details that surrounds them. She also keeps sharing with them the most recent developments internationally to ensure the team remains updated and continuously evolving through time with the rapid design world around us. "It is the understanding of the client's vision for their project and translating that into a creative yet functional design is what makes this job so gratifying." Mona Hussein.
Winning awards:
Ahmed Mohamed Rabie is a visionary interior designer and entrepreneur with extensive expertise in interior design, furniture manufacturing, and the integration of design with energy sciences. Throughout his career, he has established himself as a thought leader in the field, pioneering various initiatives that elevate the industry both locally and internationally. Ahmed earned his Bachelor's degree in Interior and Furniture Design from the Faculty of Applied Arts, Helwan University. He also obtained a Business Management Skills for Entrepreneurs Certificate from the American University in Cairo. Additionally, he holds a certificate in media and television presenting, and hosted a design-focused program on CBC Décor, where he explored the relationship between interior design and energy sciences. His deep interest in energy sciences led him to pursue multiple international diplomas in design and energy sciences, allowing him to develop innovative design concepts that enhance spatial harmony and well-being.
Professional Experience:
Co-Founder and Director of Design R+D at Studio PARADIGM Product Design Course Director at Coventry University Cairo Ammer Harb is a designer and educator with a PhD in Design Futures from Politecnico di Milano and an MSc in Human-Centered Design from Brunel University London. He is the co-founder and R+D Director at Studio PARADIGM, an experiential design studio in Cairo and Milan. From 2019 to 2023, Harb was a research fellow in the EU-funded FUEL4DESIGN project, focusing on futures literacy for designers. Currently, he is an Assistant Professor of Design at Coventry University Cairo (TKH), where he leads the Product Design Department. He has worked on numerous design projects in Cairo, London, Dubai, and Milan, and has facilitated projects as a Design Thinking facilitator, including the "Social Innovation Platform" led by GIZ in Germany and Egypt. Throughout his career, Harb has developed three design toolkits, published several academic papers, and provided design solutions for over 150 projects.
Expert in Office Interiors | Business Strategist | Industry Speaker With over 20 years of experience in office interior design, furniture, and business strategy, Mohamed I. Sewidan is a recognized leader in the field. His career spans sales, design, project management, operations, and executive leadership, giving him a comprehensive understanding of market dynamics and business growth strategies. Having worked with top international manufacturers and leading brands across Egypt, the UAE, and the MENA region, Mohamed has played a key role in transforming workspaces for multinational corporations, government institutions, and major industry players. His expertise extends to strategic business planning, corporate leadership, and large-scale project execution, including contributing as a senior architect to the largest demountable partitions project in the region’s history. Mohamed’s ability to work across diverse cultures, industries, and corporate structures has shaped his unique approach to business. His insights are practical, data-driven, and tailored for real-world application, making him a sought-after speaker at conferences, executive training programs, and corporate events. For keynote speaking engagements, corporate workshops, or expert panels, Mohamed I. Sewidan delivers impactful presentations that inspire transformation and growth. With a Doctorate in Business Administration- DBA, a Master of International Business Administration - MBA, and hands-on industry expertise, Mohamed bridges the gap between business strategy and design innovation, offering his audiences actionable insights and forward-thinking strategies.
After earning a Bachelor's degree in Interior Architecture, Nathalie Njoumba founded her ownstudio in 2017. A former executive in the tourism industry, she has a deep appreciation for local identities and cultural heritage, which she integrates into residential, institutional, and retail spaces. As the founder and director of Thalie & Associés, an interior architecture agency based in Douala, Nathalie champions vernacular architecture. Her design philosophy is rooted in indigenous lifestyles, traditional craftsmanship, and locally sourced materials, ensuring that each project is deeply connected to its environment, culture, history, and geography while maintaining a contemporary sensibility. Today, Thalie & Associés brings together a dynamic network of artists, artisans, and creative studios—over a hundred talents contributing to the evolution of African craftsmanship and design. Nathalie not only conceptualized this ecosystem but has also played a pivotal role in its development. With the trust of both private and corporate clients, she is committed to delivering sustainable and meaningful transformations of spaces, guided by the principle: "Spaces that reflect who we are, a style that represents us." Believing strongly in the need for structure and regulation within the profession, Nathalie co-founded the Cameroonian Council of Interior Architects (CCAI) in March 2022, where she served as President.
Co-founder and managing partner of Style Design Hisham Ghorab is the co-founder and managing partner of Style Design, a Cairo-based multidisciplinary architecture and design firm, offering services in design, contracting, retail and maintenance. After earning his degree in architecture from Cairo University, Hisham began his career as a lecturer in architecture. However, his journey took a transformative turn when he discovered his entrepreneurial passion for human-centered design, ultimately leading him to establish Style Design in 1989 with a mission to create timeless spaces that are both functional and inspiring. Hisham’s passion for architect is deeply rooted in his lifelong fascination to create things from the ground up. From a young age, he was captivated by the process of manipulating materials and objects to bring new forms into existence. This hands-on approach fueled his desire to turn abstract concepts into spaces that are beautiful yet functional. By further exploring various disciplines with a dedication to continuous learning, he was able to successfully turn this passion into his current profession. Ever since, Style Design has become synonymous with exceptional design quality, known for crafting timeless designs and personalized experiences that resonate with a diverse range of clients. In addition to his work at Style Design, since 2019, Hisham has been teaching an elective interior design course at the American University in Cairo, where he is committed to sharing his practical experience and insights with the next generation of designers and architects. Over the years, Style Design has established strong partnerships with leading international designers and global brands, delivering a wide array of high-profile projects in both local and international markets. These range from residential and commercial developments, offices, co-working spaces, hospitality, education, healthcare, and government institutions. Beyond serving architectural and design projects, Style Design also operates two showroom spaces, offering a curated selection of contemporary furniture, lighting, flooring and finishing materials catering to both residential and commercial projects.
He surely is one of the strong believers in the concept of ‘less is more’, being the son of an architect he always fancied watching his father creating blue prints with a T-square and a right-angled triangle, which resulted in developing an early passion for design and architecture. After his graduation with a bachelor of science in Construction Engineering form the American University in Cairo in 1994, he started working for an architecture firm in Cairo Called Ultima Design in a job that offered a versatile scope ranging from building architecture models and designing interiors to supervising sites. His interest in interiors grew bigger which led him to pursue further independent design and furniture studies for 2 years at Rhodec international, England. A year later Mohamed changed jobs and joined Living In interiors for a year where he gained allot of site experience, that was later followed by him joining Orascom Projects for Touristic Developments (OPTD) in 1996, in which he was working as a design coordinator for a number of projects being built at the time in Gouna. In 1997 he founded Ebony & Ivory, and that was the beginning of a long ride that kept changing and evolving over the years until today, at the moment he is the CEO as well as the design director of the company. In 2003 Mohamed developed a production facility called Form, which mainly focuses on producing furniture. Form was also serving other furniture companies for which he was playing the role of a design editor. As a result of Ebony & Ivory’s progressive development in 2005 Mohamed decided to launch a product line under the brand name of ‘Alphabet’, a young Egyptian furniture line inspired by modern life and local tradition at the same time. Through out his design career Mohamed kept changing from one phase to another, but if there’s a constant through out the process it’ll be the decision to embrace evolution and experimentation. Another very important element in all Mohamed’s work is the reduction of ‘visual clutter’. Mohamed believes that design and architecture is not about over decoration and ornamentation, it actually is about having enough light and air to make the space alive and attractive even when it is empty, furniture and accessories should add to the space by making it breathe more, and not the other way round. That concept is reflected in all the work performed by Ebony and Ivory, whether it be a building, an interior or a product.
Area Export Manager – MENA Region & Middle and South Asia Based in Italy, Nice HQ With over *13 years of expertise* in Export Sales Vincenzo Bari is a seasoned professional dedicated to driving innovation and growth in the **MENA region* as the *Export Manager for Nice*. Before joining Nice he started his path specializing in technical and professional product achieving a relevant experience in the Technical Lighting field before joining the Door Industry being the Head of Export Sales for Breda Sistemi Industriali, a leading italian manufacturer of sectional doors. During his career had the opportunity to enforce the ability to quickly read new market dynamics and adapt to new contexts and new objectives covering mainly EMENA Region. Working in different organizations, different business fields and different markets helped him to acquire transversal skills and a new and original look at new enviroments. Now Vincenzo is in charge for MENA Region as Middle and South Asia for Nice combining technical knowledge with strategic business development to expand market presence, foster partnerships, and deliver cutting-edge automation technologies. His deep understanding of international trade, regional dynamics, and emerging trends in IoT and home automation positions him as a key player in Nice’s global expansion. Based in *Venice, Italy, and operating across **Europe and the MENA markets*, Vincenzo is passionate about transforming living spaces through intelligent technology while ensuring seamless cross-border business operations.
Dr. Jennifer Chukwujekwe is a multi-talented professional with expertise in various fields. She is an Interior Designer, Coach, and Author who is dedicated to helping professionals, entrepreneurs, and interior designers thrive in their spaces, lives, and businesses through Design. With her extensive knowledge and experience, she has successfully taught over 800 interior designers how to build, grow, and scale their businesses while maintaining profitability. Jennifer also extends her expertise to women by teaching them how to design their homes with confidence like a Pro. Education plays a significant role in Jennifer's career as she holds degrees in Commercial Interior Design, Business and Branding, Geology, Applied Computing and IT from renowned institutions such as the Interior Design Institute UK and the University of Bedfordshire UK. Furthermore, she has demonstrated her commitment to continuous learning by completing the Entrepreneurial Essentials program at the Harvard Business School Cohort Nov 2021, Future Females Business School UK, to mention just a few. She was recently awarded admitted as a Fellow of the Global Institute of Leadership and Governance South Africa and Awarded an Honorary Doctorate Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Education by the Prowess University Delaware USA. In addition to her coaching endeavors, Jennifer founded Jenniez Designs in 2014 which operates as an interior design consulting company serving residential, commercial, and corporate clients. Her exceptional skills have attracted high-net-worth individuals as well as multinational companies and prestigious schools in Lagos. Not content with just providing excellent design services and coaching aspiring designers, Jennifer took it upon herself to address the gap in interior design education in Nigeria and Africa. As a result, she established Jenniez School of African Interior Design (JSAID), which serves as a platform for raising entrepreneurs through Design. JSAID proudly is the first interior design school in Africa to have their courses accredited by The Interior Design Continuous Education Council, (IDCEC) Canada, making it amongst the top interior design schools such as New York School of Interior Design which is also accredited by IDCEC, while also serving as an approved virtual training center for interior design by Lagos State Employment Trust Fund.
PRESIDENT OF THE TUNISIAN COUNCIL OF INTERIOR ARCHITECTS He is a prominent figure in the field of architecture and interior design, currently Design Director at the Sheikh Zayed Festival in the United Arab Emirates and Founding Member and President of the Tunisian Council of Interior Architects (CTAI). In this role, he demonstrates exceptional leadership and provides strategic advice to advance the profession and maintain high standards within the industry. Additionally, Abdallah serves in the esteemed position of National Coordinator of the Regional Chambers of Interior Designers under the umbrella of UTICA, demonstrating his ability to foster collaboration and promote the interests of interior designers at the national and regional. With more than 17 years of professional experience in the field as manager of his own interior architecture agency “ZOOM In”, he has designed and managed numerous projects at national and international level. Apart from his professional career, he has 12 years of teaching experience as an expert teacher in new technologies at higher institutes of arts and design in Tunisia. With a solid knowledge of events and more specifically trade fairs as a member of the organizing committees of several trade fairs and professional seminars in Tunisia. Furthermore, he is president of the organizing committee of the largest professional event in Africa “Building Africa”. organized by the Tunisian Council of Interior Architects in February 2023 with 1700 m² of exhibition and more than 3000 professional visitors including 13 foreign delegations under the patronage of the international federation of architects and interior designers IFI. Abdallah is a member of several design commissions and associations in Tunisia and abroad, including a member of the founding commission of the African Council of Interior Architects (ACIAD) and he actively contributes to the advancement of the design community in as an executive member of the Tunisian Alliance of Designers (ATD), where he collaborates with professional colleagues to shape the future of Design.
Dr. Mohamed Talaat is a recognized Egyptian architect known for his innovative designs that blend elegance and functionality. Born in Cairo in 1974, he earned his bachelor’s degree in Architectural Design in 1996 and launched his own firm in 1999. He later obtained a master’s degree in 2014 on the “Influence of Interior Design on Architectural Design” and a Ph.D. from Atlantis University, USA, in 2017. MTA is a design-driven firm specializing in architecture, urban planning, urban design, and- site- supervision. Our approach blends functionality with aesthetic innovation to create spaces that truly connect with the people who use them. The strength of our team lies in the integration of individual talents, coming together as a collective creative force, striving to achieve community goals while enriching the way people live, work, and interact. To refine our commitment to every detail, we’ve established two sister companies MTI and Ridge Regal ensuring focused expertise to every aspect of design and execution.
Interior designer working in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Graduate in Interior Architecture, born May 16, 1973 in Lubumbashi in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Richard MUAMBA NDUBA is a man of many hats. He is president of the National Council of Interior Architects of the Democratic Republic of Congo, chief Executive officer of the company GROUPE MUAMBA S.a.r.l which is a construction company that he has managed since 2009, and administrator at the Franco-Congolese Chamber of Commerce. Married to Mrs. Denise KANINDA. Designer and developers of several constructions and developments, the authority for the regularization of insurance controls, Meriba Hotel and among others with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In the field Mr. Richard MUAMBA has been active since 1996.
Cherif is the logical outcome of a multicultural upbringing, resulting in a different vision of the world surrounding him. His approach to design probably best expresses his personality through his instantly recognizable design language. In 1999, he entered the international design competition organized by Alessi, the famous Italian household name. The competition’s theme was “Objects For Life On The Go”. Out of 750 international designs, his Yoyo torch was a finalist and went on to receive a Special Mention. That was his first contact with product design or design at large. He is a staunch believer all fields of design are intricately connected, each field strengthening the other and bringing new approaches and solutions to the other. As long as the project is challenging, whether it is architecture, interior, furniture, exhibition or graphic, Cherif will bring his unique vision. Cherif is one of a handful of designers from the Middle East to have designed products for some of the most respected international design brands such as Sawaya & Moroni (Italy), Covo (Italy), Droog Design (The Netherlands), Chi Ha Paura (Italy / The Netherlands) etc. since 2004. His work has been published in L’Officiel Du Design (France), L’Officiel Du Design Maroc, Elle Deco Italia, Elle Deco Singapore, Monitor,WallPaper, Corriere Della Sera amongst others. He likes his work to fall under the banner “Creative Simplicity” whichis clear in his approach and is the link between all of his projects to date. He is considered as one the protagonists of Egyptian contemporary design
Egyptian designer Karim Mekhtigian, considered by his peers to be the guru of contemporary interior design in Egypt, was born in Cairo in 1964 to a family of Armenian descent. His multicultural upbringing in Egypt’s cosmopolitan capital imbued him with a deep appreciation of Egypt’s rich cultural heritage and the multitude of influences that shape it. Mekhtigian is both Egyptian to the core and a man of the world. After completing secondary school, Mekhtigian, who was just sixteen at the time, travelled around the US and Europe for four years taking on different jobs at architectural design firms and in cinema, gaining invaluable practical experience in both fields. In 1984, Mekhtigian went on to study Interior Design and Scenography at the E.S.A.T. (École Supérieure d’Art et Techniques). After graduating in 1989, he worked as a Designer and Art Director for several companies, both in Paris and Cairo, before opening his own design studio, ‘Dessilk,’ for handmade tableware and accessories, in Paris. In just the first two years following Dessilk’s launch, its products were recognized by such organizations as Salon Maison et Objets, Paris, Hermes Foundation, and F.N.A.C. Fond National d’Art Contemporain. In 1998, Mekhtigian founded ‘Alchemy Design Studio,’ in Cairo, offering a wide array of services, including architecture, interior and product design. His innovative designs and flawless taste quickly established him as a leader in Egypt’s contemporary design industry, making him one of the most sought-after interior designers in Egypt. From the start, Mekhtigian distinguished himself with his ability to subtly transpose the Cairene sensorial landscape to his designs. To this day, combining cultural codes and traditions with modern visions and new technologies remains a hallmark of his design philosophy. In 2003, building on Alchemy’s success, Mekhtigian, along with his partner Mohamed Fares, opened the first Alchemy showroom for furniture and accessories in Cairo. This was followed by a second Cairo showroom in 2006, and a showroom in Bahrain in 2009. In 2010, he launched a special showroom for Alchemy Cairo, the brand, in Designopolis, Cairo’s preeminent design district at the time. From 2005 to 2011, as a consultant to the Egyptian Industrial Modernisation Center, Mekhtigian successfully implemented a national strategy to brand Egypt as a center for innovative furniture design. He founded the Egyptian Designers Forum with other leading Egyptian designers and secured the participation of Egyptian designers in exhibitions abroad, including Milan and Paris. His success at raising the international exposure of Egyptian designers contributed to Egypt‘s emergence as a player in the world of innovative design.
A Game Changer in Design and Craftsmanship Pioneering a new era of Egyptian design and craftsmanship, Hisham El Essawy is an international award-winning designer and interior architect who bridges heritage with contemporary innovation. His work transforms traditional artistry into modern, globally competitive creations, proving that design is not just an aesthetic pursuit but a powerful tool for cultural and economic impact. As Chairman of the Design Committee at ALPA – Arab League and the Export Council for Handicrafts in Egypt, Hisham is a game changer in the creative industries. His leadership fosters innovation, sustainability, and global opportunities, ensuring that Egyptian artisans and designers are not just preserving the past but shaping the future. Through Designed in Egypt, HEDS Designs, HEDS Academy, and Ka Style, he leads initiatives that empower designers, artisans, and creative entrepreneurs, redefining how Egyptian craftsmanship is perceived and positioned worldwide. By challenging conventions and embracing new possibilities, he is not just part of the industry—he is reshaping it.
Karim El Hayawan is a Cairo-based visual artist and interior architect. After founding Design Point Studio in Cairo in 2002, Karim began to develop his photography under the mentorship of Alaa Abdel Naby of Reuters. El Hayawan is continuously inspired by his hometown Cairo, relentlessly seeking visual vocabulary that defines the complexities of the ever-expanding urban metropolis. Ultimately, photography and video work serve as his narrative tool to reveal commonalities in collective experiences of life, with key theme of his work being the concept of universal metaphors. His work has been exhibited at the Institut Du Monde Arabe and Cite Internationale Des Art in Paris, Abu Dhabi Art, Dak’Art Biennale, Ithra World Cultural Center Saudi Arabia, Art D’Egypte and Darb1718 as well as featured on CNN, Acropolis Museum, and other numerous regional and international publications. El Hayawan is the founder of Cairo Saturday Walks, an initiative that invites participants to explore different neighborhoods in Egypt through the activity of street photography. He is also continuously participating and curating many groups art shows such as Conditio Humana. He is also perusing a few filmmaking and art direction projects.
Business Development Director, GLC Paints With a master’s Degree in interior architecture, Mohamad has an expansive knowledge of color, color forecasting, color design and architectural coatings. With over 18 years of experience in marketing and communication in the paint industry, working for one of the top multinational paint brands. He has lead the brand identity transformation of GLC Paints and is thoroughly involved in product research and development within the organization.
Karim Abdullatif is an Egyptian architect, writer, content creator, and Managing Editor of SceneHome, one of the MENA region’s fastest-growing design platforms and part of MO4 Network’s leading digital media portfolio. Since joining, SceneHome has grown to a following of over 150,000 across platforms, blending editorial storytelling with short form video content that has reached millions. His work bridges design journalism with creative digital strategy, spotlighting architecture, interiors, and cultural spaces across the region.
Fayyad is a pure formalist architect, passionate about minimalism, heritage& people, with 21 years of experience under his belt, Fayyad enjoys working on projects with specialized programs and finding solutions to challenging design problems, he sees every new project as an opportunity to meet and learn from new people and expand his understanding of how buildings change who we are and how we work.
With 28 years of experience, including 13+ years as a General Manager, Hesham has led transformational brand growth, built high-performing teams, and fostered healthy, dynamic workplace cultures across Egypt, the Middle East, GCC, and global developing markets. He has held leadership roles at Gillette, Coca-Cola, SC Johnson, and Red Bull, driving innovation, commercial success, and leadership development. Hesham is recognized for his ability to cultivate engaged, motivated teams, ensuring long-term business success in competitive industries.
Hany Mostafa founded Digital Com in 1994 with just six employees. Today, the company boasts 110 full-time staff and a Qatar, Dubai & Benghazi subsidiaries. Under his leadership, Digital evolved from a domestic smart solutions provider to a leading global player in the Middle East. During his 21-year tenure, he's built a reputation for innovative business strategies and profitable models that have transformed emerging products into major revenue generators.
Lead Design Manager, Savills – Cairo Rana Soliman is a Lead Design Manager with over 8 years of experience in architecture, urban, and interior design. She has worked with top firms including TDF+, Aura, and Eklego, and currently leads multidisciplinary design projects at Savills, from concept to tender and construction. Holding a Master’s in Architecture from the University of Westminster, with a focus on Cultural Identity and Globalization, she brings a strong commitment to user-centered and environmentally responsible design. Her portfolio includes key projects for AstraZeneca, AXA, Bayer, Organon, Cheil, C&T Samsung, Chevron, PWC, Oracle, Energya, Arafa, EVIC, Noon, Banque Du Caire, Emaar, and King Abdelaziz Athletic City—delivering coordinated, high-quality results across every project phase.
Co-Founder of Artistico Furniture Artistico was founded in 2003 by Zikri's brothers skilled designers creates innovative furniture solutions to enhance productivity and employee well-being. Today, Artistico produces contemporary office Furniture Designs with international quality in a modern and efficient Factory.
Dr. Mohamed Albagoury is the Managing Director of Technogym Egypt, bringing over 25 years of experience in leading sports clubs, organizations, and trading companies. His extensive expertise spans strategic management, operations, and business development within the fitness and wellness industry.
Haitham Abdelfattah Riad is a highly motivated individual who joined the Riadco family business in 1985. With his strategic thinking and strong vision, Riadco continued to grow and expand. His passion for products and materials, coupled with his commitment to excellence, has driven the company's success. Born into a family of entrepreneurs who established Riadco, one of the leading furniture companies in Egypt, Haitham took over the reins of the company after his father's passing, along with his two brothers. Together, they have continued to build on their father's legacy, developing innovative designs and products that meet the highest standards of quality. With his leadership, Riadco has received numerous awards and recognition for its contributions to the furniture industry, solidifying its position as a leader in the Egyptian market.
General Manager, MTS With over 45 years of experience in software development and implementation across France, the USA, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, Gamal Kotb has led transformative digital projects across sectors including Oil & Gas, Retail, and Cross-Border Trade. A graduate of Alexandria University in Computer Science & Automatic Control, he has played a pivotal role in major national initiatives such as Customs modernization, GOEIC, Sokhna Port, and the Maritime Databank. His journey from systems analyst to executive leadership reflects a career dedicated to innovation and national progress.
Dr. Fouad Tewfik is the CEO of GIMPEX Group, a multidisciplinary conglomerate spanning Technologies, Automation Solutions, Trading, Acoustics, and Pharma. With a background as a medical doctor, he brings a unique, analytical approach to business leadership, seamlessly blending scientific precision with entrepreneurial vision. Driven by a passion for innovation and strategic growth, Dr. Tewfik has led GIMPEX Group to achieve several industry-first milestones in Egypt. Under his leadership, the company introduced smart boards to the local market, pioneered the country’s first smart residence, developed the first dedicated private high-end cinema rooms, and redefined acoustics with specialized solutions for educational institutions and large venues. These achievements reflect GIMPEX Group’s steadfast commitment to innovation and its ability to tackle complex challenges through interdisciplinary expertise. As the business landscape continues to evolve, Dr. Tewfik remains focused on identifying new opportunities and positioning GIMPEX as a leader in its fields.
Karim Dayhoum is a PMI-certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) and Project Management Professional (PMP), as well as a USGBC Certified LEED Green Associate. He currently leads the internal project management unit at Magnom Properties as the Executive Director of Projects. Over the years, Karim has adeptly overseen entire developments and expansions for major corporate projects, managing the full lifecycle from initiation and preplanning to tendering and final closeout. Karim's experience spans projects of varying scales, from fit-outs as small as 1,000 square meters to large-scale master plan developments of up to 250,000 square meters. His extensive 13+ years of industry experience in the Middle East has honed his leadership skills and project delivery capabilities, tailored to the challenging and fast-paced environment of the MENA region. Karim's expertise covers a wide range of sectors, including education, retail banking, automotive facilities, chemical laboratories, and commercial offices and retail. His portfolio includes not only interior fit-outs but also complex built-to-suit projects and large-scale mixed-use developments.
Current role Managing Regional Workplace, Properties & Projects activities across Africa region as Cluster Lead in enterprise Life & Science account within CBRE-Global workplace solution. For over 15 years of FM experience responsibility for a group of properties in line with all Health and Safety, environmental, company procedures and customer service standards delivering Workplace & Facilities Management Solution to many projects in Middle East & Africa Region. Holding BSc. & Master of Business Administration in Project Management Enrolled in Global Inspire international Leadership management ILM5 Programme (2025)
Karim Elfarmawy is an AI expert for architecture and interior design, known for turning cutting-edge AI tools into practical design workflows. He has lectured on computational design and digital fabrication since 2017 and, beginning in 2020, deepened his craft by learning to design custom neural networks. As co-founder of dsgnr AI, Karim equips interior designers with generative tools that convert a single room photo into multiple design options, curated material palettes, and instant BOQs. He also helps architecture firms roll out AI workflows—automating visualization, streamlining data pipelines, and coaching teams on prompt engineering. Through Adze Designs, Karim applies these innovations to workplace strategy, delivering evidence-based office environments across the GCC.
Abdelhamid Al-Bahbah was born in 1993 in Derna, Libya. He is an interior designer and the founder and general manager of AB Group. He has obtained numerous academic certificates in various fields, most notably in interior design, architecture, and human development from the United Nations Institute. He also earned qualifications in project management and marketing from the Canadian Institute under Dr. Ibrahim Elfiky and obtained an MBA diploma from the American Institute. He has received several certificates of appreciation in the field of interior design and construction. He has participated in numerous local and international exhibitions in different countries, including Italy, the Netherlands, and Turkey. Over the past years, Abdelhamid Al-Bahbah has conducted more than 13 workshops in various cities within Libya and abroad, covering different aspects of interior design, such as design principles, sustainability, modern design trends, and integrating advanced technologies into residential and commercial projects. These workshops have been an ideal opportunity for professionals, students, and enthusiasts to expand their knowledge and acquire practical skills that enable them to execute successful projects. These events attracted a significant audience of over 3,200 participants, reflecting the great interest in interior design and the importance of such initiatives in developing local and international skills. Each workshop was designed to meet participants' needs by providing comprehensive theoretical content, along with practical applications and interactive discussions that helped reinforce essential design concepts. In 2019, he established a training department, and over the years, more than 1,500 trainees have been trained in various Libyan cities, including Tripoli, Misrata, Benghazi, and other locations, to support those interested in specializing in interior design. These courses aim to offer comprehensive training programs that allow participants to gain maximum benefit by combining theoretical education with practical application, in line with local and global market needs. Abdelhamid Al-Bahbah personally supervises these programs, relying on specialized training curricula that cover interior design fundamentals, project planning, material selection, execution processes, and client communication. As a certified trainer, he holds a professional Training of Trainers (TOT) certification from Dr. Elfiky’s Canadian Institute, ensuring high-quality training and the qualification of participants both theoretically and practically, according to the highest professional standards. To further promote awareness of the importance of this field and contribute to the public good, Al-Bahbah has organized awareness seminars and participated in major conferences related to this industry in various countries. He has also had the honor of representing Libya in interior design through the Italian Embassy and the International Council of Design (ICE) at the Global Architectural Networking Event, in addition to representing Libya in significant international forums in other countries.
Architecte d'intérieur aguerri ayant plus de 25 années d'expérience dans le secteur dynamiquedu bätiment. Excellentes compétences en communication et design de tout genre. Diplömé de I'lnstitut Supérieur des Beaux Art de Tunis en Art et Métier spécialité Architectured'intérieur et Scénographie (mention Bien) en 2000. Fondateur et Gérant d'un bureau d'étude en architecture d'intérieur depuis et dunesociété de promotion immobiliére depuis 2008. Membre fondateur et actuel président de la Chambre Régionale des Architectes dilntérieur de Sfax CRAIS depuis 2010 : syndicat qui agit sous l'égide de I'UTICA Union Tunisienne d'lndustrie, de commerce et d'Artisanat (organisme patronal). Membre fondateur, ex-vice-président et actuel mernbre du bureau exécutif chargé des relations internationales du Conseil Tunisien des Architectes d'lntérieur CTAI depuis 2020 : association qui protége et défend le titre d'architecte d'intérieur en Tunisie. Membre fondateur et ex-vice-président de l'Alliance Tunisienne des Designers ATD 2012 : association qui défend Ie design et Ies designers tunisiens de tout genre. Membre du groupement africain en vue de Ia fondation du Conseil Africain des Architectes d'lntérieur ACIAD (constitution en cours). Membre fondateur, premier président et actuel président de la Mediterranean Interior Architects / Designers MIA depuis 2024 : ler crée pour un meilleur partage et échange entre Architectes d'intérieur du bassin méditerranéens. Président coordinateur du comité d'organisation du forum scientifique en marge du salon INTERMED 2010 : salon international de l'aménagement intérieur de la décoration et des équipements de jardins et piscines. Président coordinateur du comité d'organisation du ler congres en architecture d'intérieur en Tunisie 2011 sous la thématique : liarchitecture d'intérieur en réve et réalité (portrait d'une discipline avec la réalisation d'un catalogue de promotion. Président coordinateur du comité diorganisation du 2éme congres intemational d'architecture d'intérieur 2014 sous la thématique : le design au service du commerce, pour une approche qui vend avec la réalisation d'un catalogue de promotion. Président de la délégation Tunisienne au salon DOCS DIJ SUD å Marseille France en 2016 faire connaitre le métier en dehors de la Tunisie et faire de nouveaux contacts. Membre du jury de labellisation NIJMA'T en marge du salon dar-déco de design 2015.
Area Export Manager at Asona International Based in the Netherlands, Benjamin is a seasoned professional with over a decade of expertise in the acoustics industry. As the Area Export Manager for Asona International, he plays a pivotal role in driving global business growth, managing exports to more than 25 countries across diverse markets. With a deep understanding of acoustic solutions and international trade dynamics, Benjamin excels in building strong relationships with distributors, partners, and clients worldwide. His strategic approach ensures seamless market expansion, compliance with international regulations, and the delivery of high-performance acoustic products tailored to regional demands. Passionate about innovation and customer-centric solutions, Benjamin combines technical knowledge with commercial acumen to strengthen Asona’s global presence. Whether navigating cross-cultural business challenges or identifying emerging opportunities, his leadership contributes to sustainable growth and long-term success in the industry.
Galal is the founder and managing director of Napata specializing in trading and manufacturing high-end, urban furniture targeting global and global-minded real estate developers, contractors and retailers. For over 20 years, his core expertise and education are in business and integrated marketing communications which allowed him to tap into various industries through his clients to include entrepreneurship, export, retail and landscape in the United States, Europe and Egypt. He entered the manufacturing world in 2014 with a goal to bring the Egyptian outdoor furniture to the global radar and grow Napata to be a recognized brand worldwide. Galal holds an M.B.A with a focus on marketing from Strayer University, Washington, DC. U.S.A.
Visionary technologist and business leader with 25+ years of experience designing and deploying transformative solutions that simplify and enrich daily life across education, workplace collaboration, and smart living environments. Passionate about bridging cutting edge technology with user-centric design to create seamless, intuitive experiences in both commercial and residential ecosystems.
With over 25 years of experience, I specialize in structural analysis and design, prioritizing the reduction of embodied carbon in our structures, by using less materials and/or less carbon intensive materials. Having worked at DIALOG since 2010, I am passionate about working on complex renovation projects, striving towards the end goal of net zero embodied carbon structural systems. We at DIALOG, believe that design can and should meaningfully improve the wellbeing of our communities and the environment we all share.
Nehal Leheta, Cofounder and principal designers of Design Point studios Interiors & Architecture. Specializing in high end residential, landscape and commercial projects, as well as set design, event design and product design. The studios’ diverse design ethos stems from the diversity of the founders interests, in addition to founding Design Point Studios-in Cairo in 2002. Leheta is also the author of the award nominated Cook book Authentic Egyptian Cooking from the table of Abou El Sid. Passionate about food and all culinary experiences. With a blue ribbon from Cordon Bleu, she is inspired and intrigued by different cultures, using their influences in her designs as well as her culinary venture.
George Washington Karani is a leading figure in Kenya's interior design industry. He is currently serving as the President of the Interior Designers Association of Kenya (IDAK), President of the African Council of Interior Architects/Designers (ACIAD), and President of Design Week Africa (DWA). He holds a Bachelor of Interior Design Degree, a Master of Interior Design Degree from the University of Nairobi, as well as a Ph.D. in Interior Design from the Technical University of Kenya. He is passionate about education and maximizing student learning opportunities by integrating multidisciplinary teamwork as a learning tool in the development and promotion of professionalism in the interior design industry in Kenya and, by extension Africa, Karani also established the Kenya College of Interior Design based in Nairobi offering specialized Interior Design courses. Karani advocates for industry regulation and is a key member of the steering committee for the Built Environment Practitioners Bill, playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of interior design in Kenya. As the Director and Principal Consultant of Interiors Intelligence Ltd. Karani is a workplace design strategist with extensive experience in commercial, retail, residential, and hospitality interiors. In 2023, Karani initiated the Design Week Africa, a groundbreaking event fostering unity through interior design in Africa. The annual event showcases the diverse interior design landscape in Africa, attracting participants from over 20 countries worldwide. Karani's vision is to make it a global platform celebrating Africa's rich interior design diversity.
With over with over 20 years of consulting and management experience in both local and international firms and a Ph.D. In lowering energy expenditure and increasing human well-being models in building renovations. Heba has recently been selected as one of the Top 50 Most Influential Women in Egypt for the year 2022. Heba El Dessouky is heading the Hospitality Development at City Edge Developments- with the most diverse portfolio of hospitality projects across Egypt. Previously heading the Interior Design department at EMAAR MISR for over 15 years & supervised the development of several lifestyle communities across residential, commercial & hospitality products. In addition to her current role, she has spoken at several conferences and career summits about real estate, interior design, and energy savings, as well as design challenges. Heba is also a certified Career Coach from International Coaching Federation USA (ICF) and a member of the AUC architecture department advisory board in Cairo.
Meet Hazem Al Zaro, an enthusiastic architect who stands as both the founder and chief designer at Zaro Architects. Born in Cairo, Egypt, to an Egyptian mother and Palestinian father, Hazem's upbringing within a multifaceted family of artistic, political, and business backgrounds significantly influenced his trajectory. His architectural journey is firmly rooted in a global-oriented culture, vision, and ambition, shaping him into the accomplished architect and business leader he is today. Embarking on his passion, Hazem commenced his studies in Architectural Engineering. Mentored by influential figures regionally and internationally, Hazem considers himself fortunate to have been exposed to a plethora of ideologies, shaping his approach to architecture and design. This phase enriched him with a wealth of experience across civic, governmental, cultural, and residential projects spanning North America, Europe, and Asia. In 2010, Hazem took the bold step of establishing Zaro Architects, now a vibrant community of approximately 20 globally diverse employees. This dynamic group fosters cultural exchange as a cornerstone of design, making remarkable strides in progress. Zaro Architects has evolved into a haven for passionate designers who operate like a close-knit family, continuously delivering bespoke design solutions, ranging from urban planning and interior design to conservation and restoration. The firm boasts a robust client base both regionally and internationally. The year 2015 marked a significant milestone, as Zaro Architects expanded its footprint to Dubai, situating itself within the creative nexus of designers at Dubai Design District. In 2017, an additional office was established in El Gouna, extending the firm's influence to the Red Sea Area. Fueled by dedication, resilience, and ambition, Zaro Architects continues its trajectory of expansion and boundary-pushing through reaching out for talent globally.
Founder of Else Lab & Partner at Alchemy Emy Hussein is an Egyptian Architect and Artist who leads a creative studio that works to merge the boundaries between art, architecture and design. After she completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture, Emy was granted a scholarship to complete her Master’s Degree at the University of Greenwich, London, with a thesis that was ranked first. In 2010, she started working in Alchemy Design Studio and eventually became one of the Art Directors. By the end of 2015, Emy, along with the partners, established Alchemy Architecture, a sub-brand of Alchemy, besides launching her own design studio. Recently, Emy Hussein partnered up with Karim Mekhtigian and Mohamed Fares in Alchemy Group and founded the brand Else Lab, one of Alchemy’s sub-brands. Else Lab approaches design and art as a tool to disentangle the established codes of today, focusing on the points of intersection between architecture, art and spatial analysis. Her work in art and architecture is related to questioning the idea of form and exploring the dimension beyond the material; that which she calls the ‘formless.’ Alongside her career as an architect, Emy studied art with the respectable artist Magd El Sagini. She also studied in Accademia D’Arte in Florence, and in 2015, she took part in Metafora’s International Workshop in Barcelona, Spain. She also has had several solo art exhibitions in Cairo,Egypt.
PRESIDENT OF THE NATIONAL COUNCIL OF INTERIOR ARCHITECTS OF COTE D’IVOIRE (CNAICI) Graduate of DESA (Diploma of Higher Artistic Studies) option Interior Architecture Fine Art of Abidjan currently called ESAPAD (THE HIGHER SCHOOL OF PLASTIC ARTS OF ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN) in Abidjan. He has more than 26 years of experience both continentally and internationally, having held management positions within prestigious groups operating in the field of the built environment and interior architecture and training. NOEL Dibo began his professional career in 1998 in Abidjan in the Archi-concept firm of the architect AKRE FRANCINE where he worked on numerous projects such as the development of the headquarters of the autonomous port of the Ivory Coast, bank projects and many others. In 2004, he worked in a Swiss firm, called Suisse concept, as technical director, he designed the layout of the offices of the “PÉTROCI” headquarters located on the plateau as well as the annex buildings in Yopougon and Vridi. A few years later in 2008, he created the interior architecture firm EDEN CONSULTING DESING. In 2016, he decided to expand his firm by joining forces with his fellow interior designer YOLANDE CODJOVI and subsequently creating both EDEN CONSULTING, from this collaboration he works on several projects such as hotel complexes (IBIS GAHNA…), Shops and restaurants of service stations (TOTAL…), canteen to international standard (SIR), office developments (PETROCI Immeuble les HEVEHAT…) Design of mosques in Abidjan, numerous pharmacies, design and layout of villas in Ivory Coast, Togo and Congo Brazzaville and Kinshasa and many others. In 2009, he participated in the creation of the National Council of Interior Architects of Ivory Coast (CNAICI) in Bingerville. From 2012, he became increasingly involved in the structuring of the CNAICI. In 2017, he was elected PRESIDENT of the National Council of Interior Architects of Ivory Coast (CNAICI). To carry out its mission at the national level. He becomes attached to political authorities, the late former president of the republic; Henri Konan Bédier.
Oliver Baxter is a renowned independent workplace consultant and public speaker in the Gulf region. With over a decade of experience, he has established himself as a leading authority on workplace design and employee engagement in the built environment. Baxter's career in the field began with his studies in Psychology at Sheffield Hallam University. After obtaining his Master’s degree, he worked for several years in the UK, helping businesses improve their employee experience. In 2015, he moved to the Gulf, where he quickly gained a reputation as an expert in his field. As an independent consultant, Baxter has worked with a wide range of clients across various industries, including Finance, Tech, Media, Big Pharma, Healthcare, and Education. He has a proven track record of helping companies improve their organizational culture, enhance employee engagement, and boost productivity, through research infused interventions. Baxter is also a highly sought-after public speaker, regularly delivered captivating keynotes and presentations at conferences and events across the World. He is known for his energetic, engaging, and informative presentations, which draw on his extensive experience and research in the field. He uses storytelling, humor, and real-world examples to engage and inspire my audiences the World over. Overall, Oliver is an invaluable resource for any company looking to improve its organizational culture, employee engagement, and performance. His expertise, experience, and passion for his work make him one of the Gulf's most respected and sought-after workplace consultants and public speakers.
Pete Kercher followed up a law degree from Southampton University with a period in international youth politics (Vice-President, European Federation of Liberal and Radical Youth, 1975-77). Moving to Italy in 1978, he established a communications and strategic design consulting agency in Italy in 1978 (now KSDC). A convinced believer in applying design methods to the strategic challenges generated by today’s complex and continuously changing society, so as to trigger interdisciplinary cross-fertilisation and synergy, he writes articles and manifestos for political, legal and design publications, chairs and addresses conferences, workshops, seminars and symposia all over Europe and the rest of the world, provides strategic design consultancy to many international projects, teaches in several schools and universities all over Europe and holds workshops and master classes in the application of Design for All and strategic design methods to issues of audience development in the fields of the economy (multiple editions of the European Economic Congress, Towards a Green Economy etc.), healthcare (European Open Science Forum 2020) and culture, cultural heritage and inclusion (several European Capitals of Culture, the European Year of Cultural Heritage 2018, museum accessibility etc.). In particular, he taught Strategic Design for Cultural Heritage at the Istituto Europeo di Design in Rome from 2013 to 2023, and now teaches the same subject in the same institute in Turin). He provides consultancy to international and domestic research projects and has collaborated with the European Commission on issues of human diversity. A founder member of EIDD – Design for All Europe (www.dfaeurope.eu) in 1993 (President in 2003-7) and of its national counterpart Design for All Italy (www.dfaitalia.it) in 1994 (President 1997-99), establishing its academic credentials (the definitive EIDD Stockholm Declaration was published during his presidency in 2004, while in 2023-24 he co-ordinated the team that drew up the new Gaia Declaration, marking the twentieth anniversary of Stockholm with a new statement about how Design for All can respond to the third-millennium challenges to human diversity and inclusion: climate change, natural and man-made emergencies, warfare, violence, reconstruction, the ageing population and the technology tsunami. In addition to EIDD and Design for All Italia, he is a professional member of ADI, the Italian Association for Industrial Design, and an honorary member of AIPi, the Italian Association of Interior Designers. He has continued to serve as EIDD’s roving Ambassador since 2007, representing the organisation in the European Disability Forum on since 2023 on the Advisory Board of AccessibleEU, the international consortium contracted by the European Commission to monitor the application of the European Accessibility Act in the 27 member states.
Nevine Helmy is born in Egypt She is graduated from Sacre-coeur _ French school She studied Economics at AUC She is the CEO of Meuble El Chark Karassi karassi + Cinec
I am a highly trained Architect with a diverse skill set, including expertise as a Strategic Consultant, Business Development Advisor, Interior designer, Curator and Researcher. My dedication to design and commitment to sustainable development are exemplified through my role as the IFI Ambassador to Uganda. I am committed to fostering community engagement and building a strong professional presence in architecture, interior architecture and design. With an impressive educational background and extensive international experience, I bring a unique and innovative approach to my work.