Food Systems Subcommittee
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The Food System Subcommittee (FSS) operates under the MENA2050 Climate Action Committee, consisting of experts dedicated to addressing the complex challenges of our global and regional agri-food systems, in line with the principles of the MENA2050 Green Prosperity Manifesto. The collective goal of the FSS is to drive a comprehensive Agri-Food Systems Transformation within the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
This transformation aims to address urgent issues such as food insecurity, climate change, desertification, and socio-economic disparities, while also capitalizing on the region’s unique opportunities in entrepreneurship, rich culinary culture, strategic location and climatic diversity.By leveraging interdisciplinary expertise and fostering collaboration across sectors, the Food System Subcommittee strives to advance innovative solutions that promote sustainability, resilience, and equity throughout the agri-food systems in the MENA region. Through research, thought leadership, policy advocacy, and community engagement, their aim is to cultivate more inclusive agri-food systems that benefits both current and future generations, socially, environmentally, and economically, while honoring regional culinary culture and traditions.
Dr. Lee Recht, Chair
Lee Recht, Ph.D Vice President of Sustainability, Aleph Farms Lee’s main passion and dedication lies between climate, sustainability and innovation with a personal devotion to promote resilience in the global food systems. Dr. Recht is Currently VP Sustainability at Aleph Farms, an Israeli-based food company and a global leader in developing cultivated beef steaks with 3D tissue engineering. Her recent positions include working with the Global 1000 companies, leading NGOs and high level government officials from around the world, building tailor made ways to help identify and implement innovative and sustainable solutions according to their strategies and efforts. Lee established and directed The Builders R&D Innovation and led the Israeli ETA hub (External Technology Acquisition) by The Coca-Cola Company, delivering a continuous stream of original and ground-breaking technologies that contributed to fulfilling short and long-term goals of Coca-Cola’s Global R&D. Dr. Recht played a role also as a Scientific Advisor for the Energy and Clean-tech Sector at the Office of the Chief Scientist, Ministry of Economy (today: Israel Innovation Authority, IIA), where she promoted the Clean-tech sector within the government by initiating and establishing IIA programs and advocated Israeli innovation as
Lee Recht, Ph.D Vice President of Sustainability, Aleph Farms Lee’s main passion and dedication lies between climate, sustainability and innovation with a personal devotion to promote resilience in the global food systems. Dr. Recht is Currently VP Sustainability at Aleph Farms, an Israeli-based food company and a global leader in developing cultivated beef steaks with 3D tissue engineering. Her recent positions include working with the Global 1000 companies, leading NGOs and high level government officials from around the world, building tailor made ways to help identify and implement innovative and sustainable solutions according to their strategies and efforts. Lee established and directed The Builders R&D Innovation and led the Israeli ETA hub (External Technology Acquisition) by The Coca-Cola Company, delivering a continuous stream of original and ground-breaking technologies that contributed to fulfilling short and long-term goals of Coca-Cola’s Global R&D. Dr. Recht played a role also as a Scientific Advisor for the Energy and Clean-tech Sector at the Office of the Chief Scientist, Ministry of Economy (today: Israel Innovation Authority, IIA), where she promoted the Clean-tech sector within the government by initiating and establishing IIA programs and advocated Israeli innovation as part of the solution towards the Paris Agreement to tackle climate change. Lee holds a PhD in Biotechnology from the Ben Gurion University, a B.Sc. in Food technology from the Hebrew University and an MBA specializing in Strategy and International Management.
Lee Recht, Ph.D Vice President of Sustainability, Aleph Farms Lee’s main passion and dedication lies between climate, sustainability and innovation with a personal devotion to promote resilience in the global food systems. Dr. Recht is Currently VP Sustainability at Aleph Farms, an Israeli-based food company and a global leader in developing cultivated beef steaks with 3D tissue engineering. Her recent positions include working with the Global 1000 companies, leading NGOs and high level government officials from around the world, building tailor made ways to help identify and implement innovative and sustainable solutions according to their strategies and efforts. Lee established and directed The Builders R&D Innovation and led the Israeli ETA hub (External Technology Acquisition) by The Coca-Cola Company, delivering a continuous stream of original and ground-breaking technologies that contributed to fulfilling short and long-term goals of Coca-Cola’s Global R&D. Dr. Recht played a role also as a Scientific Advisor for the Energy and Clean-tech Sector at the Office of the Chief Scientist, Ministry of Economy (today: Israel Innovation Authority, IIA), where she promoted the Clean-tech sector within the government by initiating and establishing IIA programs and advocated Israeli innovation as part of the solution towards the Paris Agreement to tackle climate change. Lee holds a PhD in Biotechnology from the Ben Gurion University, a B.Sc. in Food technology from the Hebrew University and an MBA specializing in Strategy and International Management.
Dr. Hassan Heshmat
Dr. Hasan Heshmat Managing Director of Hydro-C Ltd, Holding BDS University of Baghdad, college of dentistry and MPhil degree from Strathclyde University – Engineering Dept. with several certificates in business management and leadership. 13 years of experience working alongside international companies and organizations specialized in Energy, Water, Construction, Agriculture and Innovation. Focusing on building sustainable relations between nations and states to develop peace and business for mutual interest, stabilizing renewable energy, Oil&Gas, Infrastructure investment, humanitarian aid and education. Concentrating on taking the energy sector up to a greener level by incorporating sustainable clean solutions Energy industry allowing transforming the future to adopt innovative solutions. Achieved successful results by teaming with pioneer partners in UK, US, Israel, EU, China, Iraq and UAE. I enjoy walking my pet in the green dear place, water polo and swimming, obsessed with tech-related advancements for interstellar traveling. I do believe humanity as a race can achieve impossible when united, stronger together
Dr. Hasan Heshmat Managing Director of Hydro-C Ltd, Holding BDS University of Baghdad, college of dentistry and MPhil degree from Strathclyde University – Engineering Dept. with several certificates in business management and leadership. 13 years of experience working alongside international companies and organizations specialized in Energy, Water, Construction, Agriculture and Innovation. Focusing on building sustainable relations between nations and states to develop peace and business for mutual interest, stabilizing renewable energy, Oil&Gas, Infrastructure investment, humanitarian aid and education. Concentrating on taking the energy sector up to a greener level by incorporating sustainable clean solutions Energy industry allowing transforming the future to adopt innovative solutions. Achieved successful results by teaming with pioneer partners in UK, US, Israel, EU, China, Iraq and UAE. I enjoy walking my pet in the green dear place, water polo and swimming, obsessed with tech-related advancements for interstellar traveling. I do believe humanity as a race can achieve impossible when united, stronger together
Dr. Hasan Heshmat Managing Director of Hydro-C Ltd, Holding BDS University of Baghdad, college of dentistry and MPhil degree from Strathclyde University – Engineering Dept. with several certificates in business management and leadership. 13 years of experience working alongside international companies and organizations specialized in Energy, Water, Construction, Agriculture and Innovation. Focusing on building sustainable relations between nations and states to develop peace and business for mutual interest, stabilizing renewable energy, Oil&Gas, Infrastructure investment, humanitarian aid and education. Concentrating on taking the energy sector up to a greener level by incorporating sustainable clean solutions Energy industry allowing transforming the future to adopt innovative solutions. Achieved successful results by teaming with pioneer partners in UK, US, Israel, EU, China, Iraq and UAE. I enjoy walking my pet in the green dear place, water polo and swimming, obsessed with tech-related advancements for interstellar traveling. I do believe humanity as a race can achieve impossible when united, stronger together
Dr. Said Alahayne
Said Alahyane is a research-professor in political science at the Faculty of Legal, Economic and Social Sciences-Cadi Ayyad University, Morocco. His research focuses on public policies with a focus on agricultural policies, food security issues, policymaking in Morocco. He is the author of numerous articles published in international journals. He was a visiting scholar in Schustermen Center for Israeli studies at Brandeis University (United-States) and in Israel from June 28, 2023 to July 20, 2023
Said Alahyane is a research-professor in political science at the Faculty of Legal, Economic and Social Sciences-Cadi Ayyad University, Morocco. His research focuses on public policies with a focus on agricultural policies, food security issues, policymaking in Morocco. He is the author of numerous articles published in international journals. He was a visiting scholar in Schustermen Center for Israeli studies at Brandeis University (United-States) and in Israel from June 28, 2023 to July 20, 2023
Said Alahyane is a research-professor in political science at the Faculty of Legal, Economic and Social Sciences-Cadi Ayyad University, Morocco. His research focuses on public policies with a focus on agricultural policies, food security issues, policymaking in Morocco. He is the author of numerous articles published in international journals. He was a visiting scholar in Schustermen Center for Israeli studies at Brandeis University (United-States) and in Israel from June 28, 2023 to July 20, 2023
Ali Faqeeh
Ali Faqeeh is an analyst at the Bahrain Centre for Strategic, International, and Energy Studies (Derasat), as well as a non-resident research fellow at the Atlantic Council in Washington, DC. With a primary emphasis on entrepreneurship and food security, Ali is dedicated to shaping policies that enhance and foster food security by cultivating a conducive business environment within the agriculture sector at local and regional levels. Furthermore, he endeavors to revolutionize the agricultural landscape by spearheading the development of innovative and sustainable agricultural technologies. Ali's expertise in the field is well- documented through his collection of policy and scholarly articles. Prior to his tenure at Derasat, Ali Faqeeh honed his skills and gained invaluable experience in both the commercial and public sectors, solidifying his comprehensive understanding of diverse industry dynamics.
Ali Faqeeh is an analyst at the Bahrain Centre for Strategic, International, and Energy Studies (Derasat), as well as a non-resident research fellow at the Atlantic Council in Washington, DC. With a primary emphasis on entrepreneurship and food security, Ali is dedicated to shaping policies that enhance and foster food security by cultivating a conducive business environment within the agriculture sector at local and regional levels. Furthermore, he endeavors to revolutionize the agricultural landscape by spearheading the development of innovative and sustainable agricultural technologies. Ali's expertise in the field is well- documented through his collection of policy and scholarly articles. Prior to his tenure at Derasat, Ali Faqeeh honed his skills and gained invaluable experience in both the commercial and public sectors, solidifying his comprehensive understanding of diverse industry dynamics.
Ali Faqeeh is an analyst at the Bahrain Centre for Strategic, International, and Energy Studies (Derasat), as well as a non-resident research fellow at the Atlantic Council in Washington, DC. With a primary emphasis on entrepreneurship and food security, Ali is dedicated to shaping policies that enhance and foster food security by cultivating a conducive business environment within the agriculture sector at local and regional levels. Furthermore, he endeavors to revolutionize the agricultural landscape by spearheading the development of innovative and sustainable agricultural technologies. Ali's expertise in the field is well- documented through his collection of policy and scholarly articles. Prior to his tenure at Derasat, Ali Faqeeh honed his skills and gained invaluable experience in both the commercial and public sectors, solidifying his comprehensive understanding of diverse industry dynamics.
Lisa Moon
Lisa is President & Chief Executive Officer of GFN. Previously, Lisa served as Vice President of Global Agriculture and Food at The Chicago Council on Global Affairs, where she spearheaded a project that has become one of the leading global contributors to discussions around hunger and food security. There she conducted studies and policy dialogues on the role of agriculture in emerging economies, the nexus between agriculture and health, the pressures water scarcity and climate change will place on the global food system and the importance of trade and food price volatility to social stability. She holds a Master of Arts degree in security policy studies from George Washington University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in international studies, political science, and Spanish from Bradley University.
Lisa is President & Chief Executive Officer of GFN. Previously, Lisa served as Vice President of Global Agriculture and Food at The Chicago Council on Global Affairs, where she spearheaded a project that has become one of the leading global contributors to discussions around hunger and food security. There she conducted studies and policy dialogues on the role of agriculture in emerging economies, the nexus between agriculture and health, the pressures water scarcity and climate change will place on the global food system and the importance of trade and food price volatility to social stability. She holds a Master of Arts degree in security policy studies from George Washington University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in international studies, political science, and Spanish from Bradley University.
Lisa is President & Chief Executive Officer of GFN. Previously, Lisa served as Vice President of Global Agriculture and Food at The Chicago Council on Global Affairs, where she spearheaded a project that has become one of the leading global contributors to discussions around hunger and food security. There she conducted studies and policy dialogues on the role of agriculture in emerging economies, the nexus between agriculture and health, the pressures water scarcity and climate change will place on the global food system and the importance of trade and food price volatility to social stability. She holds a Master of Arts degree in security policy studies from George Washington University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in international studies, political science, and Spanish from Bradley University.
Shirley Shahar
The Co-founder, DANA GLOBAL Shirley’s career has included significant experience in marketing and business development with corporate enterprise, food and agricultural innovation and startups in different sectors. Alongside her career, Shirley has been a mentor in different programs that promote diversity, women empowerment and innovation. Today, she is leading DANA, an Abu Dhabi based venture builder and investment platform, that supports women led startups from the MENA region in sectors of desertech, including sectors of agrifood, sustainability, water solutions, renewable energy, and circular economy. She leads the company strategic planning regarding dealflow, business development, and ecosystem partnerships. Shirley strives to implement impact and the values of diversity, sustainability and gender equality throughout DANA's operations. Shirley’s vast experience in agritech and foodtech is invaluable in directing startups and regional ecosystem toward practical solutions that serve tangible marketplace needs. Shirley is a mother of four, including twins.
The Co-founder, DANA GLOBAL Shirley’s career has included significant experience in marketing and business development with corporate enterprise, food and agricultural innovation and startups in different sectors. Alongside her career, Shirley has been a mentor in different programs that promote diversity, women empowerment and innovation. Today, she is leading DANA, an Abu Dhabi based venture builder and investment platform, that supports women led startups from the MENA region in sectors of desertech, including sectors of agrifood, sustainability, water solutions, renewable energy, and circular economy. She leads the company strategic planning regarding dealflow, business development, and ecosystem partnerships. Shirley strives to implement impact and the values of diversity, sustainability and gender equality throughout DANA's operations. Shirley’s vast experience in agritech and foodtech is invaluable in directing startups and regional ecosystem toward practical solutions that serve tangible marketplace needs. Shirley is a mother of four, including twins.
The Co-founder, DANA GLOBAL Shirley’s career has included significant experience in marketing and business development with corporate enterprise, food and agricultural innovation and startups in different sectors. Alongside her career, Shirley has been a mentor in different programs that promote diversity, women empowerment and innovation. Today, she is leading DANA, an Abu Dhabi based venture builder and investment platform, that supports women led startups from the MENA region in sectors of desertech, including sectors of agrifood, sustainability, water solutions, renewable energy, and circular economy. She leads the company strategic planning regarding dealflow, business development, and ecosystem partnerships. Shirley strives to implement impact and the values of diversity, sustainability and gender equality throughout DANA's operations. Shirley’s vast experience in agritech and foodtech is invaluable in directing startups and regional ecosystem toward practical solutions that serve tangible marketplace needs. Shirley is a mother of four, including twins.
Riad Al Khouri
Riad al Khouri, a Jordanian based in Amman, is a graduate of l’Ecole internationale de Genève who also holds a BA from the American University of Beirut, and an MLitt from the University of Oxford, (both in Economics). Working in Arabic, English, and French, he has advised the World Bank Group (WBG), the UK Department for International Development, and many others, on economic issues, among numerous other topics. As a regional consultant for decades, Riad, among other activities, has covered most countries in West Asia & North Africa, including as WBG consultant in Afghanistan, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Turkey the UAE, and Yemen. Among his most recent WBG assignments as team leader were in 2021 on Doing Business & Country Reforms in Afghanistan, as well as in 2022 evaluating Financial Inclusion in Egypt.
Riad al Khouri, a Jordanian based in Amman, is a graduate of l’Ecole internationale de Genève who also holds a BA from the American University of Beirut, and an MLitt from the University of Oxford, (both in Economics). Working in Arabic, English, and French, he has advised the World Bank Group (WBG), the UK Department for International Development, and many others, on economic issues, among numerous other topics. As a regional consultant for decades, Riad, among other activities, has covered most countries in West Asia & North Africa, including as WBG consultant in Afghanistan, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Turkey the UAE, and Yemen. Among his most recent WBG assignments as team leader were in 2021 on Doing Business & Country Reforms in Afghanistan, as well as in 2022 evaluating Financial Inclusion in Egypt.
Riad al Khouri, a Jordanian based in Amman, is a graduate of l’Ecole internationale de Genève who also holds a BA from the American University of Beirut, and an MLitt from the University of Oxford, (both in Economics). Working in Arabic, English, and French, he has advised the World Bank Group (WBG), the UK Department for International Development, and many others, on economic issues, among numerous other topics. As a regional consultant for decades, Riad, among other activities, has covered most countries in West Asia & North Africa, including as WBG consultant in Afghanistan, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Turkey the UAE, and Yemen. Among his most recent WBG assignments as team leader were in 2021 on Doing Business & Country Reforms in Afghanistan, as well as in 2022 evaluating Financial Inclusion in Egypt.
Leehee Goldenberg
Leehee is a lawyer and policy professional specializing in energy, infrastructure, climate change, carbon markets and resource governance. She began her legal career at the Israeli Ministry of Justice, working on UNCLOS, trade agreements and security issues, and currently works as the VP of Policy & Head of Legal at Oporto Carbon, helping companies navigate the voluntary carbon market. With 20 years of experience in policy and cross-sectoral collaboration, she has led successful partnerships and coalitions with government ministers, senior regulators, municipalities as well as civil society and the private sector. As a senior lawyer and litigator, in her previous position as Director of the Economic Department at the Israeli NGO Adam Teva V’Din, she led some of the most important environmental lawsuits of the last decade: successfully securing amendments to the government's road map for the offshore natural gas industry; preventing the expansion of the oil refinery in Haifa; limiting the industrial use of Dead Sea water and led to the approval of the National Energy Efficiency Plan. Israel She is an active member of the Indices Committee of the TA-125 Fossil Fuel Free Climate Index and Ecopeace’s MENA Regional
Leehee is a lawyer and policy professional specializing in energy, infrastructure, climate change, carbon markets and resource governance. She began her legal career at the Israeli Ministry of Justice, working on UNCLOS, trade agreements and security issues, and currently works as the VP of Policy & Head of Legal at Oporto Carbon, helping companies navigate the voluntary carbon market. With 20 years of experience in policy and cross-sectoral collaboration, she has led successful partnerships and coalitions with government ministers, senior regulators, municipalities as well as civil society and the private sector. As a senior lawyer and litigator, in her previous position as Director of the Economic Department at the Israeli NGO Adam Teva V’Din, she led some of the most important environmental lawsuits of the last decade: successfully securing amendments to the government's road map for the offshore natural gas industry; preventing the expansion of the oil refinery in Haifa; limiting the industrial use of Dead Sea water and led to the approval of the National Energy Efficiency Plan. Israel She is an active member of the Indices Committee of the TA-125 Fossil Fuel Free Climate Index and Ecopeace’s MENA Regional Forum.
Leehee is a lawyer and policy professional specializing in energy, infrastructure, climate change, carbon markets and resource governance. She began her legal career at the Israeli Ministry of Justice, working on UNCLOS, trade agreements and security issues, and currently works as the VP of Policy & Head of Legal at Oporto Carbon, helping companies navigate the voluntary carbon market. With 20 years of experience in policy and cross-sectoral collaboration, she has led successful partnerships and coalitions with government ministers, senior regulators, municipalities as well as civil society and the private sector. As a senior lawyer and litigator, in her previous position as Director of the Economic Department at the Israeli NGO Adam Teva V’Din, she led some of the most important environmental lawsuits of the last decade: successfully securing amendments to the government's road map for the offshore natural gas industry; preventing the expansion of the oil refinery in Haifa; limiting the industrial use of Dead Sea water and led to the approval of the National Energy Efficiency Plan. Israel She is an active member of the Indices Committee of the TA-125 Fossil Fuel Free Climate Index and Ecopeace’s MENA Regional Forum.
Ravit Dinmez Yehezkel
Ravit Dinmez Yehezkel, LL.M, EMBA possesses extensive legal knowledge in the public, private and NPO sectors in Israel. In her previous position Dinmez-Yehezkel was employed by the ministry of Environmental Affairs where she dealt with government relations, regulations, strategy, and crisis management. As Leket Israel’s Vice President of Legal and Government Relations, she formulates overall policies and strategies to lead the organization in the field of food rescue and food insecurity, in collaboration with government decision makers. Dinmez Yehezkel represents Leket Israel at government ministries and meets regularly with officials, at Knesset committees, local governments, and other relevant organizations. Additionally, she forms and promotes collaborations related to food rescue and food insecurity and promotes parliamentary tools, such as legislation, queries, etc.
Ravit Dinmez Yehezkel, LL.M, EMBA possesses extensive legal knowledge in the public, private and NPO sectors in Israel. In her previous position Dinmez-Yehezkel was employed by the ministry of Environmental Affairs where she dealt with government relations, regulations, strategy, and crisis management. As Leket Israel’s Vice President of Legal and Government Relations, she formulates overall policies and strategies to lead the organization in the field of food rescue and food insecurity, in collaboration with government decision makers. Dinmez Yehezkel represents Leket Israel at government ministries and meets regularly with officials, at Knesset committees, local governments, and other relevant organizations. Additionally, she forms and promotes collaborations related to food rescue and food insecurity and promotes parliamentary tools, such as legislation, queries, etc.
Ravit Dinmez Yehezkel, LL.M, EMBA possesses extensive legal knowledge in the public, private and NPO sectors in Israel. In her previous position Dinmez-Yehezkel was employed by the ministry of Environmental Affairs where she dealt with government relations, regulations, strategy, and crisis management. As Leket Israel’s Vice President of Legal and Government Relations, she formulates overall policies and strategies to lead the organization in the field of food rescue and food insecurity, in collaboration with government decision makers. Dinmez Yehezkel represents Leket Israel at government ministries and meets regularly with officials, at Knesset committees, local governments, and other relevant organizations. Additionally, she forms and promotes collaborations related to food rescue and food insecurity and promotes parliamentary tools, such as legislation, queries, etc.
Dr. Shamal Abdulkhaliq Mohammed
Dr Shamal Mohammed is an accomplished AgriTech executive with extensive experience in leading innovation research and development and digital transformation in the agricultural industry. Shamal holds a PhD in remote sensing and machine learning applications in agriculture and is presently the AgriTech Director at Silal in the UAE. He is responsible for the AgriTech innovation program, leading R&D activities and building strategic partnerships nationally and internationally to develop an innovative ecosystem for AgriTech innovation. Before his current role, Shamal held leadership positions at the AGRI-EPI Centre, Agrii, and AHDB, in the UK, where he led various projects and teams focused on digital agriculture, soil health, crop nutrition, and precision farming. Shamal has a track record of developing and implementing digital solutions that improve food production systems, increase environmental sustainability, and enhance farmers' livelihoods. He is a member of the National Committee for Local Production and Technology in the UAE Government and an Advisory Board member of the Water Research Centre at New York University in Abu Dhabi.
Dr Shamal Mohammed is an accomplished AgriTech executive with extensive experience in leading innovation research and development and digital transformation in the agricultural industry. Shamal holds a PhD in remote sensing and machine learning applications in agriculture and is presently the AgriTech Director at Silal in the UAE. He is responsible for the AgriTech innovation program, leading R&D activities and building strategic partnerships nationally and internationally to develop an innovative ecosystem for AgriTech innovation. Before his current role, Shamal held leadership positions at the AGRI-EPI Centre, Agrii, and AHDB, in the UK, where he led various projects and teams focused on digital agriculture, soil health, crop nutrition, and precision farming. Shamal has a track record of developing and implementing digital solutions that improve food production systems, increase environmental sustainability, and enhance farmers' livelihoods. He is a member of the National Committee for Local Production and Technology in the UAE Government and an Advisory Board member of the Water Research Centre at New York University in Abu Dhabi.
Dr Shamal Mohammed is an accomplished AgriTech executive with extensive experience in leading innovation research and development and digital transformation in the agricultural industry. Shamal holds a PhD in remote sensing and machine learning applications in agriculture and is presently the AgriTech Director at Silal in the UAE. He is responsible for the AgriTech innovation program, leading R&D activities and building strategic partnerships nationally and internationally to develop an innovative ecosystem for AgriTech innovation. Before his current role, Shamal held leadership positions at the AGRI-EPI Centre, Agrii, and AHDB, in the UK, where he led various projects and teams focused on digital agriculture, soil health, crop nutrition, and precision farming. Shamal has a track record of developing and implementing digital solutions that improve food production systems, increase environmental sustainability, and enhance farmers' livelihoods. He is a member of the National Committee for Local Production and Technology in the UAE Government and an Advisory Board member of the Water Research Centre at New York University in Abu Dhabi.
Mustafa Oğuz
Mustafa Oğuz is an Istanbul-based business consultant specialized in political risk, corporate affairs and policy & strategy development He received his BA degree in International Relations from Istanbul Beylent University in 2003 and graduate degree in Conflict Analysis and Resolution from Sabancı University (İstanbul) in 2005. He was a visiting researcher at the Begin-Sadat Center for Strategic Studies (BESA Center) at Bar-Ilan University in Tel Aviv, Israel, in the 2005-2006 academic year. He completed his military service at the Turkish General Staff in June 2007 and started worked at the Foreign Economic Relations Board of Türkiye (DEIK). During this duty, he has been in charge of speech writing, policy and strategy development. He served in technical committees of national organizations such as the Investment Environment Improvement Coordination Board (YOİKK) of Türkiye and international organizations such as the Organization of Turkic States. Within the Board, he served as the director of DEIK Business Councils on regulated issues such as health, education, logistics, energy, and consultancy services. In addition to his duties at DEIK, he served as the special advisor to Minister of Commerce of Türkiye in 2018-2019. Additionally, he was the
Mustafa Oğuz is an Istanbul-based business consultant specialized in political risk, corporate affairs and policy & strategy development He received his BA degree in International Relations from Istanbul Beylent University in 2003 and graduate degree in Conflict Analysis and Resolution from Sabancı University (İstanbul) in 2005. He was a visiting researcher at the Begin-Sadat Center for Strategic Studies (BESA Center) at Bar-Ilan University in Tel Aviv, Israel, in the 2005-2006 academic year. He completed his military service at the Turkish General Staff in June 2007 and started worked at the Foreign Economic Relations Board of Türkiye (DEIK). During this duty, he has been in charge of speech writing, policy and strategy development. He served in technical committees of national organizations such as the Investment Environment Improvement Coordination Board (YOİKK) of Türkiye and international organizations such as the Organization of Turkic States. Within the Board, he served as the director of DEIK Business Councils on regulated issues such as health, education, logistics, energy, and consultancy services. In addition to his duties at DEIK, he served as the special advisor to Minister of Commerce of Türkiye in 2018-2019. Additionally, he was the youngest member of the Istanbul Development Agency Development Board between 2014-2017 and is a member of the advisory board of Istanbul Aydın University Chinese Studies Center and African Studies Center. Since October 2019, he is managing his consulting firm based in Istanbul.
Mustafa Oğuz is an Istanbul-based business consultant specialized in political risk, corporate affairs and policy & strategy development He received his BA degree in International Relations from Istanbul Beylent University in 2003 and graduate degree in Conflict Analysis and Resolution from Sabancı University (İstanbul) in 2005. He was a visiting researcher at the Begin-Sadat Center for Strategic Studies (BESA Center) at Bar-Ilan University in Tel Aviv, Israel, in the 2005-2006 academic year. He completed his military service at the Turkish General Staff in June 2007 and started worked at the Foreign Economic Relations Board of Türkiye (DEIK). During this duty, he has been in charge of speech writing, policy and strategy development. He served in technical committees of national organizations such as the Investment Environment Improvement Coordination Board (YOİKK) of Türkiye and international organizations such as the Organization of Turkic States. Within the Board, he served as the director of DEIK Business Councils on regulated issues such as health, education, logistics, energy, and consultancy services. In addition to his duties at DEIK, he served as the special advisor to Minister of Commerce of Türkiye in 2018-2019. Additionally, he was the youngest member of the Istanbul Development Agency Development Board between 2014-2017 and is a member of the advisory board of Istanbul Aydın University Chinese Studies Center and African Studies Center. Since October 2019, he is managing his consulting firm based in Istanbul.
Dr. Tareq Abu Hamed
Dr. Tareq Abu Hamed is the Executive Director of the Arava Institute for Environmental Studies. A recognized leader in renewable energy technology and regional cooperation, he launched and led the Institute’s Center for Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation and served as the Institute’s Academic Director. One of the leaders of Israeli President Herzog’s Climate Forum, co-chairing the task force on Regional Cooperation and Security, he is the recipient of the 2024 American Association for the Advancement of Science’s David and Betty Hamburg Award for Science Diplomacy. Named one of “48 Israelis shaping Israel and the world, today and into the future” by Israel 21c in April 2023, Dr. Abu Hamed first joined the Arava Institute in 2008, when he established the Arava Institute’s Center for Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation. He left the Institute in 2013 to become the Israeli Ministry of Science’s Deputy Chief Scientist, and later the Acting Chief Scientist, the highest ranking Palestinian in the Israeli government at that time. He returned to the Arava Institute in 2016. Today, he is recognized as a leader in regional environmental diplomacy and a sought-after speaker at international
Dr. Tareq Abu Hamed is the Executive Director of the Arava Institute for Environmental Studies. A recognized leader in renewable energy technology and regional cooperation, he launched and led the Institute’s Center for Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation and served as the Institute’s Academic Director. One of the leaders of Israeli President Herzog’s Climate Forum, co-chairing the task force on Regional Cooperation and Security, he is the recipient of the 2024 American Association for the Advancement of Science’s David and Betty Hamburg Award for Science Diplomacy. Named one of “48 Israelis shaping Israel and the world, today and into the future” by Israel 21c in April 2023, Dr. Abu Hamed first joined the Arava Institute in 2008, when he established the Arava Institute’s Center for Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation. He left the Institute in 2013 to become the Israeli Ministry of Science’s Deputy Chief Scientist, and later the Acting Chief Scientist, the highest ranking Palestinian in the Israeli government at that time. He returned to the Arava Institute in 2016. Today, he is recognized as a leader in regional environmental diplomacy and a sought-after speaker at international convenings including most recently the United Nations COP28. Dr. Abu Hamed holds a Bachelor and a Master of Science in Chemical Engineering from Gazi University (Turkey), and a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Ankara University (Turkey). He has completed two terms of postdoctoral research, one at the Environmental Science and Energy Research Department of the Weizmann Institute of Science (Israel), and the second at the University of Minnesota’s Mechanical Engineering Department Solar Energy Lab. He also holds a Master’s in Public Policy from Hebrew University.
Dr. Tareq Abu Hamed is the Executive Director of the Arava Institute for Environmental Studies. A recognized leader in renewable energy technology and regional cooperation, he launched and led the Institute’s Center for Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation and served as the Institute’s Academic Director. One of the leaders of Israeli President Herzog’s Climate Forum, co-chairing the task force on Regional Cooperation and Security, he is the recipient of the 2024 American Association for the Advancement of Science’s David and Betty Hamburg Award for Science Diplomacy. Named one of “48 Israelis shaping Israel and the world, today and into the future” by Israel 21c in April 2023, Dr. Abu Hamed first joined the Arava Institute in 2008, when he established the Arava Institute’s Center for Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation. He left the Institute in 2013 to become the Israeli Ministry of Science’s Deputy Chief Scientist, and later the Acting Chief Scientist, the highest ranking Palestinian in the Israeli government at that time. He returned to the Arava Institute in 2016. Today, he is recognized as a leader in regional environmental diplomacy and a sought-after speaker at international convenings including most recently the United Nations COP28. Dr. Abu Hamed holds a Bachelor and a Master of Science in Chemical Engineering from Gazi University (Turkey), and a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Ankara University (Turkey). He has completed two terms of postdoctoral research, one at the Environmental Science and Energy Research Department of the Weizmann Institute of Science (Israel), and the second at the University of Minnesota’s Mechanical Engineering Department Solar Energy Lab. He also holds a Master’s in Public Policy from Hebrew University.
Dr. Lee Recht, Chair
Israel
Israel
Lee Recht, Ph.D Vice President of Sustainability, Aleph Farms Lee’s main passion and dedication lies between climate, sustainability and innovation with a personal devotion to promote resilience in the global food systems. Dr.
Dr. Hassan Heshmat
Iraq, UK
Iraq, UK
Dr. Hasan Heshmat Managing Director of Hydro-C Ltd, Holding BDS University of Baghdad, college of dentistry and MPhil degree from Strathclyde University – Engineering Dept. with several certificates in business management
Dr. Said Alahayne
Morocco
Morocco
Said Alahyane is a research-professor in political science at the
Faculty of Legal, Economic and Social Sciences-Cadi Ayyad University,
Morocco. His research focuses on public policies with a focus on
agricultural policies, food
Ali Faqeeh
Bahrain
Bahrain
Ali Faqeeh is an analyst at the Bahrain Centre for Strategic, International, and Energy Studies (Derasat), as well as a non-resident research fellow at the Atlantic Council in Washington, DC. With a primary
Lisa Moon
USA
USA
Lisa is President & Chief Executive Officer of GFN. Previously, Lisa served as Vice President of Global Agriculture and Food at The Chicago Council on Global Affairs, where she spearheaded a project that
Shirley Shahar
Israel
Israel
The Co-founder, DANA GLOBAL Shirley’s career has included significant experience in marketing and business development with corporate enterprise, food and agricultural innovation and startups in different sectors.
Alongside her career, Shirley has
Riad Al Khouri
Jordan
Jordan
Riad al Khouri, a Jordanian based in Amman, is a graduate of l’Ecole internationale de Genève who also holds a BA from the American
University of Beirut, and an MLitt from the University
Leehee Goldenberg
Israel
Israel
Leehee is a lawyer and policy professional specializing in energy, infrastructure, climate change, carbon markets and resource governance.
She began her legal career at the Israeli Ministry of Justice, working on UNCLOS, trade
Ravit Dinmez Yehezkel
Israel
Israel
Ravit Dinmez Yehezkel, LL.M, EMBA possesses extensive legal knowledge in the public, private and NPO sectors in Israel.
In her previous position Dinmez-Yehezkel was employed by the ministry of Environmental Affairs where
Dr. Shamal Abdulkhaliq Mohammed
Kurdistan (Iraq), UAE
Kurdistan (Iraq), UAE
Dr Shamal Mohammed is an accomplished AgriTech executive with extensive experience in leading innovation research and development and digital transformation in the agricultural industry. Shamal holds a PhD in
Mustafa Oğuz
Turkey
Turkey
Mustafa Oğuz is an Istanbul-based business consultant specialized in political risk, corporate affairs and policy & strategy development He received his BA degree in International Relations from Istanbul Beylent University in 2003 and
Dr. Tareq Abu Hamed
Palestine, Israel
Palestine, Israel
Dr. Tareq Abu Hamed is the Executive Director of the Arava Institute for Environmental Studies. A recognized leader in renewable energy technology and regional cooperation, he launched and led the Institute’s