Why Makaani exists

Many people grow up between cultures.

They move between cities, languages and perspectives.

They build bridges naturally.

Makaani was created for them.

A place to connect, exchange ideas and discover opportunities across regions.

What we do

Makaani connects people through:

• conversations

• curated introductions

• cultural experiences

• creative collaborations

We believe culture can open doors for new ideas, partnerships and possibilities.

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Makaani Advisory Committee

Abdulkarim Mohamed

Abdulkarim (Karim) Mohamed is an African-Canadian investor, entrepreneur, and writer with nearly 20 years of experience spanning engineering, finance, and venture capital. Over the past decade, he has backed high-growth startups and shaped investment strategies across East and West Africa, with a particular focus on education, employment, and inclusive innovation.

Abdulkarim Mohamed

Mahdis Schubert

Mahdis Schubert is an Austrian-Iranian entrepreneur and the founder of The Female Factor, a global career and leadership platform empowering the next generation of female leaders. Through events, programs, and a strong international network, she connects ambitious talent with opportunities, driving conversations around equality, visibility, and modern leadership across Europe and beyond.

Mahdis Schubert

Soraya Hosni

Soraya Hosni is an anthropologist, entrepreneur, sustainability expert, and Founder of Clever Harvest. Fluent in multiple languages, her journey from academia to executive roles has equipped her with a distinctive approach to tackling complex challenges, combining her expertise in social sciences with a fervent commitment to environmental conservation. Soraya has led organizations in both private and philanthropic sectors, prioritizing economic and environmental sustainability.

Soraya Hosni

Mariam Al-Ayyash

Mariam Al-Ayash is an Iraqi-Austrian strategist, storyteller, and founder of Makaani. With over a decade of experience in brand building and communication, she creates narratives that connect diaspora communities and challenge dominant perspectives, positioning heritage as a driver of modern, future-facing storytelling.

Mariam Al-Ayyash

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Meet the team

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Mariam Al-Ayyash

Founder

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Jessica Hornsey

Jessica Hornsey

Content Strategist

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Shehab Waleed

Shehab Waleed

Creative Consultant & Concept

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Felipe Daniel

Felipe Daniel

Motion Designer

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Nour Abdalla

Nour Abdalla

First ever Makaani Intern

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Julia Raffetseder

Julia Raffetseder

Content Creator

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Cristina Kashma

Head of Design & Branding

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Lorena Costa

Lorena Costa

Lead Visual Designer & Motion

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Nani Oliveira

Nani Oliveira

Lead Illustrator & Designer

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Annie Nguyen

Annie Nguyen

Asian Region Content Curator & Production Lead

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Emilia  Savic

Emilia Savic

Creative Strategist Curator