On the Soulders of Giants: What Muslim Tech Can Learn from a Generation of Activism

// Panel

Location: FIVE-TWO-A

Time: 2:45 PM – 3:30 PM

Moderator: Yusuf Abdul-Qadir

Speakers: Councilwoman Shahana Hanif, Yasser Salem, Dr. Debbie Almontaser

Abstract:

This session brings together a leading voice in technology with veteran community organizers and activists who paved the way long before “tech” was the center of gravity. By weaving stories of struggle, resilience, and institution-building from past decades, the conversation will surface the wisdom and lessons of those who fought for equity, identity, and representation in difficult times. The goal is not nostalgia, but recognition: the leadership we now seek to establish in AI and emerging technologies stands firmly on the foundations laid by these giants. Their victories and missteps alike carry insights into how Muslims in tech can build movements that are ethical, sustainable, and impactful.

Speaker Biographies:

Yusuf Abdul-Qadir — Yusuf Abdul‑Qadir is a humanitarian technologist, professor at Syracuse University, and co‑founder of Habibi Tech — the premier professional network advancing Muslim excellence in technology through world-class education and dynamic, curated live events. He brings over a decade of expertise as an applied researcher at the intersection of technology, racial, and environmental justice; as a senior tech policy manager across big tech (currently Amazon, formerly Meta); and as a strategist shaping smart city frameworks, global tech governance, and ethical innovation in the Middle East, Africa and US. 

Councilwoman Shahana Hanif — Councilwoman Shahana Hanif is a Brooklyn Councilwoman and the first Muslim woman elected to the NYC Council. Raised in Kensington by Bangladeshi immigrants, she grounds her leadership in organizing and community power. She has advanced immigrant justice, workers’ rights, and climate equity while delivering millions in resources to schools, housing, and community institutions.

Yasser Salem — Yasser Salem is a strategy-first executive, investor, and board advisor with 20+ years across McKinsey, 3G Capital, sovereign wealth funds, and founder-led ventures. He helped build PIF’s $300B domestic portfolio, generating $2.5B+ EBITDA gains, and scaled healthcare ventures to 150,000 patients with 5–6× returns. An HBS MBA and NYU Stern graduate, he brings investor-grade rigor to complex strategic and operational transformations worldwide.

Dr. Debbie Almontaser — Dr. Debbie Almontaser is an internationally recognized educator, entrepreneur, and cross-cultural expert. Founder and CEO of Bridging Cultures Group Inc. and founding principal of the Khalil Gibran International Academy, she has over 25 years in NYC public schools. A sought-after speaker and advisor, she champions diversity, interfaith understanding, and equity, with leadership spanning Emgage, MCN, YAMA, and beyond.