The Fair Traders

Board of Directors

Samir Abdelmalak

President and Co-founder

 

Empowering local 

With an unyielding belief in Lebanon’s potential and richness, Samir embodies the spirit of empowerment and resilience. He lives by the words of Gibran Khalil Gibran, reminding us that true strength lies in weaving our own cloth, harvesting our own bread, and savoring the wine from our own wine-press. As a renowned lawyer with a lifelong dedication to the Lebanese civil society, Samir is an activist, particularly in the fields of rural development and intercultural dialogue. 

Gabriel Debbane

Vice-president and Co-founder

 

Unwavering dedication 

As a renowned businessman, Gabriel stands as a vigilant guardian over Fair Trade Lebanon. With wisdom and experience, he breathes life into our organization’s prospects and development strategies. Gabriel’s entrepreneurial journey has fueled his boundless enthusiasm for products and services crafted with genuine Lebanese expertise. He has taken it upon himself to be an firm supporter and an inspiring ambassador for Lebanese products and culture, both at home and abroad. 

Joanne Karkour

Secretary and Co-founder

Fierce determination to break the silence

Leveraging a master’s in Economics and a DESS in Telecommunications Management, Joanne is a dynamic Creative Entrepreneur and Strategic Business Development Manager with 25+ years of experience. Specializing in brand development, strategic transformations, and thriving in challenges, she brings expertise to small and medium-sized enterprises. Joanne’s holistic professional journey integrates her passion for the environment, sustainability, leadership, and a balanced life. Eager to contribute to the business landscape while maintaining a deep connection with the world’s wonders.

Philippe Adaime

CEO and Co-founder

 

Solid belief in the possible

Philippe brings a wealth of experience in management, financial consultancy, and university teaching to his role as a business lawyer and MBA holder. His remarkable vision and passion have positioned him as one of the main pillars nurturing Fair Trade Lebanon since its inception. Philippe’s managerial acumen and long-term perspective have driven our organization’s growth and expansion, establishing us as a force to be reckoned with. 

Dominique Lesaffre

Member of the Board of Directors in charge of Management and Financial Strategy

 

Deep understanding of diverse regions 

As an independent consultant specializing in solidarity finance, Dominique brings over 40 years of expertise in designing, developing, and evaluating financing systems for development. With an Economics degree from the University of Vienna and an MBA from ESSCA Angers, his diverse background includes managing a hospital in the Brazilian Amazon and holding executive positions in European solidarity and social investment organizations. Dominique’s extensive experience extends across regions like Latin America, Sahel, Palestine, and Southern Africa. 

The Fair Traders

Team