Board of Trustees

Dr. Hala Abdel Khaleq has made significant contributions in the fields of community development, disability inclusion and business consulting. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a specialization in Economics at the American University, and obtained a Postgraduate Diploma in Economics and a Master’s in Business Administration in 2000. She is now enrolled in the program Doctorate in Public Administration with a focus on mental health for leaders at CBU, California, USA. From 1994 to 2000, Dr. Hala worked as an Assistant Professor, teaching Econometrics, Production Operations, and Cost Accounting at both AUC and MIU, during which time she honed her expertise in these subjects with her passion for teaching and sharing knowledge. Dr. Hala’s personal life played an important role in shaping her dedication to the inclusion of people with disabilities. She is a proud mother of four with her eldest daughter, Jamila, born in 1996 in Florida. Gamila’s diagnosis with Down Syndrome ignited Hala’s passion for advocating for the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities, making her a pioneer in Egypt. Hala began her career developing the public health sector in Egypt, where she worked with USAID and the Ministry of Health. She worked as the Director of Social Marketing and Public Relations, where she contributed to the growth and awareness of health initiatives. In 2000, Hala played a pivotal role in establishing the largest children’s cancer hospital in the Middle East, 57357, as director of the European and Middle East fundraising campaign.

Hala received certification as a business strategist and balanced performance consultant from George Washington University and the Balanced Performance Institute in 2007. In parallel with her consulting work, Hala founded the Weyana International Foundation for Awareness and Inclusion of People with Disabilities, with a focus on advocacy and awareness raising. This organization works as a platform to promote the rights and inclusion of individuals with disabilities in Egypt. In 2011, Hala was appointed as the first Minister of Persons with Disabilities in Egypt. She also founded and served as the first minister of the National Council for Disability Affairs of the Egyptian Prime Minister from 2011 to 2014. These roles allowed her to formulate policies and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of people with disabilities in Egypt, such as the 12 amendments to the Egyptian Constitution and the Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities that were made. It was drafted while she was in government office. In 2010, Hala established brain and mental health clinics, known as 360 Clinics, which use American-Canadian technology for brain and mind health, including neurofeedback and biofeedback techniques. These clinics have made a significant impact in Egypt and the Middle East and North Africa region. In addition, Hala established the Special Olympics Egypt chapter in 2010, demonstrating its commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities through sports and promoting a sense of community. Hala Abdel Khaleq’s tireless efforts in the fields of mental health, disability inclusion, and business consulting have left an indelible mark on society. Her dedication, expertise, and compassion continue to inspire positive change and create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.