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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Asona International Area Export Manager Working in the field of acoustics for over a decade and handling the export for Asona in more than 25 countries.
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.
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.
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 M.Sc, B.Sc - Insight Programme Manager APMEA Oliver works within the MillerKnoll (formerly Herman Miller) Insight Group, which is responsible for the commissioning, overseeing, and presenting of insights into the latest thinking in workplace design and associated issues. The subjects covered include The Future of Work, Happiness in the Workplace, Cognitive Ergonomics, Creativity in the Workplace, Agile Working and the Psychology of Collaboration. Oliver has also been a Living Office specialist since 2014, where through the Discovery Process, MillerKnoll helps organizations to purposefully consider the behaviours they feel will help them meet their business objectives and to design spaces that support those. After completing his Masters in 2009, Oliver moved to Norway to begin a teaching career in applied Psychology before joining Herman Miller in January 2011. Since then, he has become a valued member of the Insight team working closely with the international sales force, as well as public and private sector clients. He has been involved with a variety of international office projects and has been based in Dubai since 2015 to deliver Insights throughout APMEA regions. Oliver also has an active interest in social media and technology. His valued insights can be found at @HMInsightMEA.
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.