June Newsletter: Momentum Across the Network

Published on July 2, 2026

LebNet Vancouver Reawakens

On June 25, LebNet Vancouver convened its inaugural Meeting of the Minds roundtable, bringing together leaders from technology, healthcare, investment, engineering, real estate, and industrial innovation. Hosted by LebNet Board Member and Vancouver Community Leader Marianne Zakhour, alongside Elio Ibrahim, the gathering featured a keynote by Ibrahim Gedeon, former CTO of TELUS and author of Automata. The discussion explored AI, innovation, and the future of Western Canada's Lebanese professional community. With plans already underway for a September kickoff luncheon, the momentum is only beginning.

Our Programs

Tech Fellows 2026, Cohort Launches!

The LebNet Tech Fellows Program 2026 kicked off on June 6, welcoming 218 outstanding students from 30+ universities across Lebanon for a 10-week mentorship-driven program.

By the Number
218 Fellows | 30+ Universities | 10-Week Program | Class of 2026

Soft Landing 2026 - Meet the Recipients

We are proud to announce the 2026 Soft Landing cohort, six exceptional students from Lebanese universities who will be pursuing graduate studies at leading institutions across North America. Congratulations to our recipients!

Event Recaps

LebNet Boston, Networking Night

On June 3rd, the Boston community gathered for an evening of networking and meaningful conversations. As one attendee shared: “Great conversation with interesting new people.”

LebNet Michigan Networking Dinner

On June 5, LebNet Michigan brought together Lebanese professionals in Dearborn for an evening of networking, collaboration, and community building

LebNet London Exclusive Roundtable

On June 11, LebNet London hosted an exclusive roundtable with Jibran Jahshan, VP of Engineering at NVIDIA and LebNet Board Member. Attendees explored technology leadership, innovation, and career growth through an engaging discussion with one of the industry's leading voices.

Bay Area Pitch Night

On June 17, LebNet, in partnership with LIFE and Endeavor Lebanon, hosted an evening celebrating Lebanese entrepreneurship. The event opened with a keynote by Abdo George Kadifa, followed by pitches from 10 Lebanese-founded startups spanning AI, legal tech, health tech, enterprise software, and deep tech.

Startups: Cambria, Fitoto Technologies, GridWeave, HAQQ Legal AI, Oculi, Pipp, Revilico, Rivio, Umbrella AI, and Zaqa.

LebNet London, Main Launch Event

On June 23, LebNet officially launched its London chapter, our first outside North America, at Amazon's London offices. The evening featured opening remarks by LebNet President Georges Akiki and a fireside chat with Petros Farah, moderated by Yasmin Baba.

LebNet Chicago, Community Mixer & Watch Party

On June 27, Lebanese professionals gathered to watch Portugal vs. Colombia and strengthen Chicago's growing community over an evening of casual networking.

DC Summer Connections

July 23 | Ballston Local, Arlington, VA

An evening of networking, meaningful conversations, and new opportunities.

San Diego Summer Picnic

August 1 | Hospitality Point, Mission Bay

Family-friendly afternoon of networking, food, and community by the bay.

Spotlight

Ghada Saliba-Malouf, Shaping Sustainable Impact

LebNet Board Member and former SVP, Managing Director & Associate General Counsel at Wells Fargo, Ghada Saliba-Malouf has been instrumental in advancing LebNet's mission through mentorship, community building, and empowering the next generation of Lebanese professionals. In this spotlight, she shares what inspires her continued commitment and her vision for LebNet's future.

KANZ, Can Lebanon break a Guinness World Record?

On July 15, Kanz, in collaboration with Lebanon's Ministry of Information Technology and Artificial Intelligence, will lead a global initiative to train tens of thousands of participants in practical AI skills. Attendees will learn how to build apps, create content, and leverage AI tools. No coding experience required.

STEP SF, August 26-27

This two day conference brings together founders, operators, investors, and innovators shaping the future of AI. From Bay Area activations to the main conference at The Midway, attendees can expect thought-provoking discussions, emerging technologies, and meaningful connections.

LebNet members get 20% off tickets with code LebNet

Get your ticket