Mikey Muhanna

Founder & Executive Director of afikra | عفكرة

Michael Muhanna, often referred to as Mikey Muhanna, is a prominent figure in the promotion of Arab culture and intellectualism. He is the Founder and Executive Director of afikra, an organization dedicated to fostering curiosity and knowledge about the Arab world through various cultural initiatives and events. Established in 2014, afikra aims to transform passive interest in Arab cultures into active engagement and intellectual exploration.1 2

Educational Background and Early Career

Muhanna graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Duke University. His professional journey includes roles in finance and education, having worked at Morgan Stanley in alternative asset management and in actuarial consulting at PricewaterhouseCoopers and Aon Benfield.1 3 He also served as a Teach For America corps member, where he developed a passion for education and mentoring young students.1

Contributions to Education and Culture

Before founding afikra, Muhanna initiated several educational projects, including an organization called Positive Space, which focused on teaching coding and web skills to students from the New Orleans public school system. His experiences there shaped his commitment to enhancing curiosity among young adults.2 Under his leadership, afikra has hosted numerous events, including online discussions during the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly expanded its reach and community engagement.2

Current Focus

Muhanna is actively involved in several educational boards, including the American Community School in Beirut and the NYC nonprofit COOP*ERATE. He continues to innovate within afikra by launching new programs, podcasts, and workshops aimed at deepening understanding of Arab histories and cultures.1 2 4 His work emphasizes building community connections and encouraging individuals to explore their interests within the context of Arab culture.

In summary, Mikey Muhanna's multifaceted career reflects his dedication to education, cultural awareness, and community building, making him a significant advocate for the richness of Arab intellectual life.