I've been called a designer, strategist, and connector; but really, I'm just an Egyptian-American who calls Chicago home, and believes that relationships are the most powerful engines for change. Through The Leap Year Project, a self-made Master's Program, I worked with Threadless, NBBJ, and advertising mogul Alex Bogusky, among others. I staged my graduation at TEDxWindyCity, produced a book about taking leaps, and recently launched the Experience Institute, joining forces with industry leaders from Razorfish, Northwestern, Apple, and I.C. Stars to prepare for the founding class.
Two years ago, I became curious about learning practical ways to improve the world. After researching business schools, I decided my options were either too expensive or less than what I was looking for, so I created my own format of 12 experiences in 12 months centered around design, business, and social change. Over the course of one year, I traveled around several states and countries and worked with some of the best and brightest.
These mini-apprenticeships have given me a deeper understanding of the theory behind good business and social change, while also teaching me through practical experience the adaptability necessary to make things work in our new economy. I believe this type of experience-based education provides an invaluable learning experience, costs far less than current models, and can equip individuals to face today’s problems with an inventive spirit.
We're using the lessons learned during my Leap Year Project in 2012 to create a new type of higher education based on real-world experiences.
In 2012, I created my own space to explore the intersection of business, design, & social change. The format entailed 12 experiences/apprenticeships in 12 months.
I used this space to invite others around the globe to take risks that would better their life, community or their world.
We're a small collective of friends who believe relationships are the most powerful means for change.
My role here was three-fold:
- Pioneer the Middle School and High School programs at the third and newest campus of CCC.
- Develop and execute events & programs for a Student Ministry of 1,000+ students.
- Graphic Design, video production, and creative marketing for all three campuses as well as our 40,000 square foot student space entitled The Hub.