Audio Vestibular and Rehabilitation Conference

Maha Elew

Consultant | Kuwait

Doctor ABOU-ELEW had her MB BCh. in December 1991, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, EGYPT. She had her M. Sc. in November 1995 and MD degree in May 2000 in Audiology and Vestibular Medicine from Cairo University. She obtained a Diplôme Universitaire “Audioprothèse Implantée” from Faculté de Médecine Pierre et Marie Curie, Université Paris VI, Paris, FRANCE in July 2009. She joined, as full-time clinical fellow, the Vestibulometry Unit with Dr. Sylvette Wiener-Vacher in Robert Debré Hospital, Paris from June 2007 to August 2009 and had an extensive work in pediatric vestibular examination. She has 28 years of clinical practice in diagnosis and management of patients suffering from dizziness / vertigo or hearing loss in adults as well as in children. She has also a long experience in cochlear implant programming as well as in tinnitus and hyperacusis management. Prof. ABOU-ELEW has lectured extensively in the areas of neurotology, pediatric vestibular assessment, central auditory processing, electrophysiology, CI and complex case disorders and their management. She has supervised more than 25 Master of Science and Doctorate theses in the field of Audio-Vestibular Medicine, Neurology and Otolaryngology. In addition, she has many peer-reviewed publications in a variety of Otolaryngology, Audiology and Neuroscience related journals. She was invited to present her research in many national, regional and international conferences. She works as a Professor of Audio-Vestibular Medicine, ORL Department in Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University from 2010. Currently, she joined Skeikh Salem Al-Ali Centre for Speech and Hearing Therapy, Kuwait as a Consultant from November 2019 till present.

Ahmed Alamadi

Consultant Otologist, Neurotologist & Medical Director | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Ahmad AlAmadi is a renowned Otolaryngologist in the UAE, with more than 27 years of experience in all ENT procedures. He completed his Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery degrees in 1993 at the University of Glasgow, Scotland, and completed his surgical training at the Royal College of Surgeon Glasgow in 1998. He later completed his fellowship in Neurotology at the University of Toronto, Canada. He holds overall 3 decades of experience in clinical, surgical, and administrative healthcare. He currently holds 21 years of clinical experience as a consultant and Head of Department in the UAE, with special interest in the field of dizziness and imbalance, and 27years of surgical experience in all ENT procedures, especially in microsurgical skills in Otology and Neurotology. For the past two decades, he has been Head of Department, 9 years as a Medical Director, and additionally Head of Evaluation Committee for Higher Degrees (MOH). Dr. Ahmad AlAmadi’s keen interest lies in Otoplasty, Endoscopic Ear Surgery, Hearing Loss, Infectious Diseases, Tinnitus, Vertigo, Throat disorders. He is also an academician, lecturer and professor. He is the Program Director for the Arab Board Program in the UAE and Head of the Scientific Committee of the Emirati Board UAE. He is Involved in teaching ENT colleagues through the Emirates Medical Association, and is now associated with the prestigious University of Sharjah teaching aspiring students. He has published over nine research papers and co-authored an e-book. His area of expertise includes, Cochlear Implant Surgery Otoplasty Endoscopic Ear Surgery Hearing Loss Infectious Diseases Tinnitus Vertigo Throat Disorders

Rasha Soliman

Senior Consultant of Otology Audio-vestibular Medicine, | Qatar

 Senior Consultant of Otology, Audio-vestibular Medicine -State of Qatar, Since 2015.  Built more than one center of hearing and balance disorders, to be fully integrated unit, equipped with most recent diagnostic tools so our patient easily gets their problems management on tertiary diagnostic level.  Current place of work AHMC Al Hadi Medical Center which has been designed to the first unique complete rehabilitation center over Qatar. It is not only for hearing and balance problems but also, we have sport and pediatric special needs rehabilitation services.

Faiz Anwarulla

Audiologist | United Arab Emirates

Audiologist with 10+ years of clinical experience holding Masters degree in Speech and hearing from India and diploma in Advance Vestibular science from Sharjah university. Currently practicing at advance hearing and balance center ,Dubai and current clincal work focuses on hearing and tinitus evaluations and treatments.adult and pediatric diagnostic tests ,hearng aid fittings ,vestibular and balance testing.

Maha Elew

Consultant | Kuwait

Doctor ABOU-ELEW had her MB BCh. in December 1991, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, EGYPT. She had her M. Sc. in November 1995 and MD degree in May 2000 in Audiology and Vestibular Medicine from Cairo University. She obtained a Diplôme Universitaire “Audioprothèse Implantée” from Faculté de Médecine Pierre et Marie Curie, Université Paris VI, Paris, FRANCE in July 2009. She joined, as full-time clinical fellow, the Vestibulometry Unit with Dr. Sylvette Wiener-Vacher in Robert Debré Hospital, Paris from June 2007 to August 2009 and had an extensive work in pediatric vestibular examination. She has 28 years of clinical practice in diagnosis and management of patients suffering from dizziness / vertigo or hearing loss in adults as well as in children. She has also a long experience in cochlear implant programming as well as in tinnitus and hyperacusis management. Prof. ABOU-ELEW has lectured extensively in the areas of neurotology, pediatric vestibular assessment, central auditory processing, electrophysiology, CI and complex case disorders and their management. She has supervised more than 25 Master of Science and Doctorate theses in the field of Audio-Vestibular Medicine, Neurology and Otolaryngology. In addition, she has many peer-reviewed publications in a variety of Otolaryngology, Audiology and Neuroscience related journals. She was invited to present her research in many national, regional and international conferences. She works as a Professor of Audio-Vestibular Medicine, ORL Department in Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University from 2010. Currently, she joined Skeikh Salem Al-Ali Centre for Speech and Hearing Therapy, Kuwait as a Consultant from November 2019 till present.

Muhammed Ayas

Specialist Audiologist & Researcher – Hearing Implants & Balance | United Arab Emirates

Muhammed Ayas is a specialist audiologist at the Emmeline Center for Hearing Implants, where he is dedicated to supporting cochlear implant (CI) recipients throughout their lifelong journey with CI technology. His clinical expertise is complemented by a strong research focus on cochlear implants and vestibular sciences. Before joining CUH, Muhammed worked in the United Arab Emirates as a senior audiologist and clinical assistant professor. He holds a PhD in audiology and a Doctor of Audiology (AuD) degree from the University of Florida, USA. Muhammed is an active member of the British Academy of Audiology (BAA) and the British Society of Audiology (BSA), and he is a licensed clinical scientist in audiology by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

Faisal Al Mubarak

Consultant, Physical Therapy | Saudi Arabia

Dr. Al Mubarak is a Consultant of Physical Therapy specialized in Vestibular Rehabilitation received his doctorate of science degree in Physical Therapy from Loma Linda University. Dr. Al Mubarak is a certified orthopedic manual therapist and also certified in the management of cervicogenic dizziness. Dr. Al Mubarak is interested in the following fields: 1. Dizziness 2. Balance Disorders 3. Fall Risk 4. Low back pain

Mona Selim

Professor of Audio-Vestibular Medicine, ENT department, Faculty of Medicine, | Egypt

Dr. Mona Hassan Selim Consultant and Professor of Audio-Vestibular Medicine, Cairo University MD in Audio-Vestibular Medicine, Cairo University. Master Degree in Audio-Vestibular Medicine, Cairo University. MB B.Ch in Medicine & Surgery, Cairo University. Healthcare and Hospital Management Diploma, American University in Cairo (AUC). Worked for more than 25 years in the field of Audio-Vestibular Medicine (both inside &outside Egypt) with work experience in the fields of; Basic Audiologic Evaluation, Auditory Evoked potentials, Hearing Aid fitting and Evaluation, Vestibular Assessment &Rehabilitation and Cochlear Implantation. In addition to contributing in the training of Audio-Vestibular physicians, numerous thesis supervision and dissertations, contributing in local & international conferences, numerous local & international publications in addition to being a member in the editorial Board of the Egyptian Journal of Otolaryngology. Member of the Quality Assurance Office of Cairo University Hospitals for more than 10 years. Contributed in the Total Quality promotion and accreditation projects implemented in Cairo University Hospitals and contributed in the training of Physicians, Faculty, Nurses and Hospital staff on Quality assurance and how to implement it.

Mona Selim

Professor of Audio-Vestibular Medicine, ENT department, Faculty of Medicine, | Egypt

Dr. Mona Hassan Selim Consultant and Professor of Audio-Vestibular Medicine, Cairo University MD in Audio-Vestibular Medicine, Cairo University. Master Degree in Audio-Vestibular Medicine, Cairo University. MB B.Ch in Medicine & Surgery, Cairo University. Healthcare and Hospital Management Diploma, American University in Cairo (AUC). Worked for more than 25 years in the field of Audio-Vestibular Medicine (both inside &outside Egypt) with work experience in the fields of; Basic Audiologic Evaluation, Auditory Evoked potentials, Hearing Aid fitting and Evaluation, Vestibular Assessment &Rehabilitation and Cochlear Implantation. In addition to contributing in the training of Audio-Vestibular physicians, numerous thesis supervision and dissertations, contributing in local & international conferences, numerous local & international publications in addition to being a member in the editorial Board of the Egyptian Journal of Otolaryngology. Member of the Quality Assurance Office of Cairo University Hospitals for more than 10 years. Contributed in the Total Quality promotion and accreditation projects implemented in Cairo University Hospitals and contributed in the training of Physicians, Faculty, Nurses and Hospital staff on Quality assurance and how to implement it.

Faiz Anwarulla

Audiologist | United Arab Emirates

Audiologist with 10+ years of clinical experience holding Masters degree in Speech and hearing from India and diploma in Advance Vestibular science from Sharjah university. Currently practicing at advance hearing and balance center ,Dubai and current clincal work focuses on hearing and tinitus evaluations and treatments.adult and pediatric diagnostic tests ,hearng aid fittings ,vestibular and balance testing.

Ghada Bin Khamis

Au.D, Ph.D. | Saudi Arabia

Expert Cochlear Implant, Evoked Potentials, and Pediatric Audiologist, Published Researcher, Leader, and Clinical Trainer.

Neil Donnelly

Consultant Otoneurological & Skull Base Surgeon | United Arab Emirates

Neil Donnelly was appointed as a Consultant Otoneurological & Skull Base Surgeon at Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in 2009. He completed Undergraduate and Postgraduate training in London. Fellowship training in Skull Base Surgery, Otology and Hearing Implantation was undertaken in the UK and Australia. He has a Masters degree in Audiovestibular Medicine. He has undertaken Head and Neck Anatomy supervisions at Homerton since 2020. As a Consultant at Cambridge University Hospitals, he is a member of a team delivering high quality care in Skull Base Surgery, Otology and Hearing Implantation. He was involved in establishing 360o skull base surgery in Cambridge and is Council Member of the British Skull Base Society. He has published over 100 peer reviewed papers in the fields of hearing implantation, vestibular schwannomas, Ménière's disease and cholesteatoma surgery: with over 1100 citations and an h-index of 21. F

Ghada Bin Khamis

Au.D, Ph.D. | Saudi Arabia

Expert Cochlear Implant, Evoked Potentials, and Pediatric Audiologist, Published Researcher, Leader, and Clinical Trainer.

Amira Shennawy

Professor Audio vestibular medicine | Egypt

Amira Mohamed Maged El Shennawy , graduate of Kasr El Eini school of Medicine - Cairo University MB, BCH 1996 . Professor of Audio vestibular medicine at Kasr el Ainy hospitals, Cairo University since 2015 till present time .Former Head of the Cochlear Implant Unit , Cairo University 2019-2021. Reviewer at the Egyptian Journal of Ear, Nose, Throat and Allied Sciences. Member of the International Association of Physicians in audiology (IAPA) and the Egyptian Audio-vestibular Medicine Association (EAVMA).

Mondy Hammad

Consultant ENT Physician | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Mondy Hammad is a consultant ENT surgeon who is well-known both nationally and internationally as an experienced ear and cochlear implant surgeon. He is German Board certified in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck surgery. He helped in founding the cochlear implant program in Cairo University, Egypt in 1998. He then founded the first governmental cochlear implant program in UAE in Mafraq hospital in 2008. He was involved in doing almost 1000 implants in Germany, Egypt, and UAE.

Sarah Darwish

AuD. Doctor of Audiology | United Arab Emirates

With 19 years of experience in audiology, Sarah has embraced various roles, including adult rehabilitation audiologist, vestibular audiologist, and pediatric audiologist, culminating in a comprehensive grasp of the field’s specialties.Sarah’s special interests lie in delivering evidence-based practices and solutions to address each patient’s individualized needs from diagnosis through to management, for patients of all ages. She has a special interest in behavioral pediatric hearing assessment, auditory processing diagnostics and remediation. 

Vishwanath Natesh

SPLCIALIST ENT | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Vishwanath Natesh passed MBBS with a Gold Medal from Magadh University and completed his MS (ENT) from Army Hospital Research and Referral (Delhi University). He undertook his Senior Residency at VM Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital (Delhi). Dr. Natesh also worked as a Senior Research Fellow with the Indian Council of Medical Research, Delhi. He completed a fellowship in functional endoscopic sinus surgery at MCV Trust ENT Hospital, Coimbatore, India, and earned a certification in the assessment and management of vestibular disorders (AMVD) from Yenepoya University, Mangalore, India. Additionally, he holds a diploma in International Vestibular Medicine. Dr. Natesh served as Assistant Professor and Associate Professor at BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences, Dharan, Nepal, under the Government of India faculty assistance program before joining Aster DM Healthcare, Dubai, in 2013. He has been Principal and Co-Investigator in five research projects, has seven research publications in national and international journals, and reviewed a chapter on cochlear implants in the 1st edition of "Diseases of Ear, Nose & Throat" by Prof. Mohan Bansal. Dr. Natesh is actively engaged in academic activities, especially in research and innovation involving airway allergy, vertigo, hearing conservation, and pediatric otolaryngology. He regularly presents clinical research papers at various national and international conferences as a speaker and faculty. He is also involved with WHO activities related to hearing preservation and safe practices. He is a member of the Association of Otolaryngologists of India, All India Rhinology Society, Indian Association of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, European Rhinology Society, and the American Academy of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery. Dr. Natesh is passionate about patient care and academics, enjoys reading books, and loves exploring new places.

Maha Zaitoun

Associate Professor | Jordan

I am an Associate Professor of Audiology at Jordan University of Sciences and Technology. I have particular interest in scientific research on hearing loss in Jordan and developing countries, which ultimately would improve the practice of Audiology and increase the awareness of hearing health among the public and physicians. My Teaching goal, is enhancing the critical thinking among students and empower them with the updated knowledge and clinical skills to be an active member in the Audiology field.

Gamal Yousef

Consultant and director of Phoniatrics unit | Egypt

Professor of Phoniatrics Alexandria University, Egypt Consultant and director of Phoniatrics unit, voice swallowing and speech therapy clinics, Dubai Hospital. Experience 25 years in all aspects of speech, language, voice and swallowing disorders.

Ayatallah Sheikhany

Assistant Professor of Phoniatrics, ENT department, Faculty of Medicine | Egypt

Dr. Ayatallah Raouf Sheikhany is an Assistant Professor of Phoniatrics at Cairo university as well as the University of Armed Forces Faculty of Medicine. She serves as a Consultant at the Phoniatrics unit in Agouza Police Hospital, Cairo. Dr. Sheikhany also supervises the rehabilitation section of the cochlear implant program at the same hospital. She supervises basma program for rehabilitation of children who are hard of hearing and cochlear implanted children. In addition, she works as a Visiting Consultant at several hospitals including El Safa, Dar El Fouad, El Sherouk, and Cleopatra Group Hospitals. Dr. Sheikhany's expertise extends from neonates to elderly. She is also a member of the presidential committee of hearing screening and cochlear implant. With her extensive experience and knowledge, Dr. Sheikhany played a crucial role in establishing the national database of the Egyptian CI children and neonatal hearing screening. She has great passion for this field and shares her experience through many national and international conferences and scientific meetings

Amal El Nagar

Phoniatrics Specialist | United Arab Emirates

Phoniatric specialist (Speech and Swallowing Physician) in Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation department, Al Qassimi Hospital for Women and Children-SharjahUAE • In-Charge of implementation of International Dysphagia Diet Standarization Initiatives (IDDSI) • Member of Cleft Lip and Palate Committee in EHS-UAE • Implementation of Assisted Device Technology for Communication in Al Qassimi Women and Children Hospital for the 1st time in EHS facilities • Implementation of JOINT CLINIC (Autism Clinic) for Rehabilitation of autistic children involving Child Psychiatry, Neurodevelopmental in addition to phoniatrics Specialities

Enas Hajeir

Medical Director | United Arab Emirates

Enas Hajeir is a certified Speech & Language Pathologist and the Medical Director at MED-EL Middle East Clinical Support Department in Dubai. She earned her bachelor's degree in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology from Jordan University of Science and Technology. Enas has more than 15 years of practical experience in the United Arab Emirates working with a variety of children with language and communication impairment. She provides training, counselling and support for families of children with language and communication impairment, particularly children with hearing loss, to implement therapy strategies at home and during daily life activities. Enas has undertaken in-depth training programs for professionals and participated in training other professionals to implement therapy fundamentals to develop listening and spoken language skills for children with hearing loss using hearing devices.

Ghada Al Naji

Speech-Language Pathologist | Canada

Ghada Alnaji is a highly experienced Speech-Language Pathologist with a solid educational background from Applied Science University in Amman, Jordan. Over her 15-year career in Dubai, she has made significant contributions to the field, working at prestigious institutions such as the Canadian Specialist Hospital and Al-Zahra Private Hospital in Dubai, where she played a key role in the Cochlear Implant team. Her training in Jordan, Dubai, the UK, and Canada has equipped her with a diverse skill set, allowing her to offer personalized, evidence-based therapy with a particular focus on hearing impairment cases. Passionate about improving patients' quality of life, she is dedicated to helping clients achieve their communication goals and regain vital skills for daily living. In addition to her clinical work, Ghada is committed to raising public awareness about speech and language disorders. She has delivered lectures at various schools in Dubai, often in collaboration with the Dubai Educational Zone, and has shared her expertise through radio talks and TV appearances. Her outstanding efforts have been recognized twice by H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qassimi, Chairman of Sharjah Media Corporation, for her exceptional results with cochlear implant patients.

Mariam Al saeed

Speech Pathologist | Kuwait

• Clinical Actual session (one to one, Group) in Sheikh Salem Al-Ali Center on cases with different disorders (e.g. language delay, Stuttering, cochlear implant, Hearing Aids, BAHA, Congenital Atresia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Disarticulation, Voice Problems, Nasality, ADHD, and Cleft Palate) for five years since 2012. • Presenting workshops for parents with Autism Spectrum Disorder since 2015. • Presenting workshops for parents with Language Delay under 3 years old since 2014. • Practical training course in Sheikh Salem Al-Ali center on cases with different disorders (e.g. language delay, Stuttering, cochlear implant, Hearing Aids, BAHA, Congenital Atresia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Disarticulation, Voice Problems, Nasality, ADHD, and Cleft Palate) when I was enrolled in Sept. till Dec. 2011. • Involved in practical training in Amna's Bint-Wahb Elementary School for girls with slow learners. March/2011- June/2011 o Assessed and treated students with stuttering, language delay and behavioral problems. • Practicum at Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Hospital. June, July /2011. o Assessed and treated patients with Neurological disorders like: Dysphagia, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, Developmental language delay, developmental delay, Cerebral palsy, Joubert's syndrome, Brain damage, Dysarthria, Dementia, Stroke, Traumatic Brain Injury, Right Hemisphere and behavioral problems placed in hospital for adult/Pediatric. • Observation at Sheikh Salem Al Ali Center for Speech and Hearing. • Conducted screening tests for children between ages (2-7) at an orphanage. Summer 2011 • Participated in working for SADA Educational Center (specialized for cochlear implant children) for one month and half. Summer 2011 o Assessed and treated Clients with Hearing Impaired. o Did parent awareness workshops. o Created a program for professionals continuing their education. o Created a schedule and planning for a Hearing Impairment Conference and an On-line conference. o Created a curriculum for a Cochlear Implant School, SADA Education Center and conducted a Mac-session for real clients. ________________________________________ Research Experience: • Research assistant and co-author of 'Public Awareness of Speech and Language Disorders' co-operation between Kuwait University & Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences, which is my Capstone Project, January 2012. • Research assistant and co-author of 'Attitudes of high school students toward individuals with mental retardation'. Summer 2011 • Research assistant and co-author of '' Effect of grapes' color on the microbial activity of fresh and preserved grapes'' spring 2010. A paper has been

Sabine Dick

Speech & Language Therapist - Aural Rehabilitation Specialist Cochlear Implant Program Coordinator | United Arab Emirates

Sabine graduated in 2007 with a Bachelor’s degree in Speech and Language Therapy from The Lebanese University in Beirut, Lebanon. She subsequently relocated to the United Arab Emirates and has been working in Dubai since 2009. She joined the multi-disciplinary cochlear implant team at Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital in March 2019 and has been recently appointed as the Program Coordinator in addition to her therapist role. Throughout her career journey, she has exclusively worked with the pediatric deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) children. Sabine provides assessments, carries out therapy sessions (individual and group) and devises appropriate therapy programs highlighting each family’s needs. She practices a parent-centered approach, emphasizing coaching and guidance to the families from various cultural backgrounds and nationalities. She also closely collaborates with teachers in mainstream schools and liaises with other professionals involved in the child’s team. She had numerous specific trainings in the field of rehabilitation for the DHH children and has presented at regional and international conferences in this area. Hailing from Lebanon, she is fluent in Arabic, French, English in addition to Sign Language.

Samira Ashour

Speech-Language Pathologist | Saudi Arabia

Samira Abdulaziz Ashour is a senior Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) at King Fahad Hospital of the University in Al Khobar, with over 25 years of experience. She is the lead SLP and Auditory-Verbal Therapist in the university hospital cochlear implant program that started in 2009 and head of the internship program in Speech-Language Pathology for newly graduating SLPs. Her current research involves the study of families with hearing-impaired children, the family’s perception of hearing loss, and the tools needed to become their child’s advocate and main provider of habilitation. Ms. Ashour obtained her Master of Science with the highest honors from Boston University and the Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech Language Hearing Association. She completed with distinction two 1-year courses in Auditory-Verbal Therapy and cochlear implant rehabilitation accredited by AG Bell Academy and is currently a candidate for the Listening and Spoken Language Specialist-Certified Auditory Verbal Therapist (LSLS-Cert. AVT). Due to her fluency in four languages during her many years of work in the USA, she was appointed to committees that evaluate, amend, and develop testing and instructional materials to better teach and fairly test the Arab- American student population. She was an invited speaker and presented at numerous conferences in the USA, UAE, Jordan, and KSA.

Yaser Al sabi

Director | Saudi Arabia

Dr. Yaser is currently the Director of Al-Zamil Center for Hearing and Speech at Onaizah Association for Development and Humanitarian Services-Ta”heel, Onaizah, Saudi Arabia. Dr. Yaser was the Director of both the Master Program in Speech-Language Pathology and the Bachelor Program in Speech-Language and Hearing Sciences in Dar Al-Hekma University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Dr. Yaser received his doctorate degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Howard University, Washington DC, USA in 2007. He also holds two master’s degrees in the same field. He received his first master’s degree in Speech Pathology and Communication Disorders from the University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan in 1994 and his second master’s degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology from San Jose' State University, San Jose', California, USA in 1999. Dr. Al-Sa'bi is a bilingual ASHA-certified speech-language pathologist (SLP). Dr. Al-Sa’bi was the Head of Hearing Rehabilitation Unit at King Abdullah Ear Specialist Center (KAESC) in King Saud University, Riyadh, KSA between September 2015 and September 2016. Dr. Al-Sa'bi worked as a consultant SLP at the Prince Georges County Public Schools, Maryland, USA, for four years between 2004 and 2008 and as an assistant professor at the Jordan University for Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan between 2008 and 2009. Dr. Al-Sa'bi also worked as a bilingual speech-language pathologist and a clinical supervisor at Jeddah Institute for Speech and Hearing (JISH), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, between 1996 and 2003. He also worked as the Head of Clinical Research Unit, bilingual speech-language pathologist and a clinical supervisor at Jeddah Institute for Speech and Hearing (JISH), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, between July 2009 and May 2015. Dr. Al-Sa'bi has developed and standardized many assessment tools in Arabic such as the Jordanian Expressive Vocabulary test (JEVT), Saudi Expressive Vocabulary Test, JISH Articulation Test (JAT), and JISH School Readiness Screening Test.

Mariam Al saeed

Speech Pathologist | Kuwait

• Clinical Actual session (one to one, Group) in Sheikh Salem Al-Ali Center on cases with different disorders (e.g. language delay, Stuttering, cochlear implant, Hearing Aids, BAHA, Congenital Atresia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Disarticulation, Voice Problems, Nasality, ADHD, and Cleft Palate) for five years since 2012. • Presenting workshops for parents with Autism Spectrum Disorder since 2015. • Presenting workshops for parents with Language Delay under 3 years old since 2014. • Practical training course in Sheikh Salem Al-Ali center on cases with different disorders (e.g. language delay, Stuttering, cochlear implant, Hearing Aids, BAHA, Congenital Atresia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Disarticulation, Voice Problems, Nasality, ADHD, and Cleft Palate) when I was enrolled in Sept. till Dec. 2011. • Involved in practical training in Amna's Bint-Wahb Elementary School for girls with slow learners. March/2011- June/2011 o Assessed and treated students with stuttering, language delay and behavioral problems. • Practicum at Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Hospital. June, July /2011. o Assessed and treated patients with Neurological disorders like: Dysphagia, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, Developmental language delay, developmental delay, Cerebral palsy, Joubert's syndrome, Brain damage, Dysarthria, Dementia, Stroke, Traumatic Brain Injury, Right Hemisphere and behavioral problems placed in hospital for adult/Pediatric. • Observation at Sheikh Salem Al Ali Center for Speech and Hearing. • Conducted screening tests for children between ages (2-7) at an orphanage. Summer 2011 • Participated in working for SADA Educational Center (specialized for cochlear implant children) for one month and half. Summer 2011 o Assessed and treated Clients with Hearing Impaired. o Did parent awareness workshops. o Created a program for professionals continuing their education. o Created a schedule and planning for a Hearing Impairment Conference and an On-line conference. o Created a curriculum for a Cochlear Implant School, SADA Education Center and conducted a Mac-session for real clients. ________________________________________ Research Experience: • Research assistant and co-author of 'Public Awareness of Speech and Language Disorders' co-operation between Kuwait University & Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences, which is my Capstone Project, January 2012. • Research assistant and co-author of 'Attitudes of high school students toward individuals with mental retardation'. Summer 2011 • Research assistant and co-author of '' Effect of grapes' color on the microbial activity of fresh and preserved grapes'' spring 2010. A paper has been

Enas Hajeir

Medical Director | United Arab Emirates

Enas Hajeir is a certified Speech & Language Pathologist and the Medical Director at MED-EL Middle East Clinical Support Department in Dubai. She earned her bachelor's degree in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology from Jordan University of Science and Technology. Enas has more than 15 years of practical experience in the United Arab Emirates working with a variety of children with language and communication impairment. She provides training, counselling and support for families of children with language and communication impairment, particularly children with hearing loss, to implement therapy strategies at home and during daily life activities. Enas has undertaken in-depth training programs for professionals and participated in training other professionals to implement therapy fundamentals to develop listening and spoken language skills for children with hearing loss using hearing devices.

Amal El Nagar

Phoniatrics Specialist | United Arab Emirates

Phoniatric specialist (Speech and Swallowing Physician) in Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation department, Al Qassimi Hospital for Women and Children-SharjahUAE • In-Charge of implementation of International Dysphagia Diet Standarization Initiatives (IDDSI) • Member of Cleft Lip and Palate Committee in EHS-UAE • Implementation of Assisted Device Technology for Communication in Al Qassimi Women and Children Hospital for the 1st time in EHS facilities • Implementation of JOINT CLINIC (Autism Clinic) for Rehabilitation of autistic children involving Child Psychiatry, Neurodevelopmental in addition to phoniatrics Specialities

Sabine Dick

Speech & Language Therapist - Aural Rehabilitation Specialist Cochlear Implant Program Coordinator | United Arab Emirates

Sabine graduated in 2007 with a Bachelor’s degree in Speech and Language Therapy from The Lebanese University in Beirut, Lebanon. She subsequently relocated to the United Arab Emirates and has been working in Dubai since 2009. She joined the multi-disciplinary cochlear implant team at Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital in March 2019 and has been recently appointed as the Program Coordinator in addition to her therapist role. Throughout her career journey, she has exclusively worked with the pediatric deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) children. Sabine provides assessments, carries out therapy sessions (individual and group) and devises appropriate therapy programs highlighting each family’s needs. She practices a parent-centered approach, emphasizing coaching and guidance to the families from various cultural backgrounds and nationalities. She also closely collaborates with teachers in mainstream schools and liaises with other professionals involved in the child’s team. She had numerous specific trainings in the field of rehabilitation for the DHH children and has presented at regional and international conferences in this area. Hailing from Lebanon, she is fluent in Arabic, French, English in addition to Sign Language.

Samira Ashour

Speech-Language Pathologist | Saudi Arabia

Samira Abdulaziz Ashour is a senior Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) at King Fahad Hospital of the University in Al Khobar, with over 25 years of experience. She is the lead SLP and Auditory-Verbal Therapist in the university hospital cochlear implant program that started in 2009 and head of the internship program in Speech-Language Pathology for newly graduating SLPs. Her current research involves the study of families with hearing-impaired children, the family’s perception of hearing loss, and the tools needed to become their child’s advocate and main provider of habilitation. Ms. Ashour obtained her Master of Science with the highest honors from Boston University and the Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech Language Hearing Association. She completed with distinction two 1-year courses in Auditory-Verbal Therapy and cochlear implant rehabilitation accredited by AG Bell Academy and is currently a candidate for the Listening and Spoken Language Specialist-Certified Auditory Verbal Therapist (LSLS-Cert. AVT). Due to her fluency in four languages during her many years of work in the USA, she was appointed to committees that evaluate, amend, and develop testing and instructional materials to better teach and fairly test the Arab- American student population. She was an invited speaker and presented at numerous conferences in the USA, UAE, Jordan, and KSA.

Gamal Yousef

Consultant and director of Phoniatrics unit | Egypt

Professor of Phoniatrics Alexandria University, Egypt Consultant and director of Phoniatrics unit, voice swallowing and speech therapy clinics, Dubai Hospital. Experience 25 years in all aspects of speech, language, voice and swallowing disorders.

Yaser Al sabi

Director | Saudi Arabia

Dr. Yaser is currently the Director of Al-Zamil Center for Hearing and Speech at Onaizah Association for Development and Humanitarian Services-Ta”heel, Onaizah, Saudi Arabia. Dr. Yaser was the Director of both the Master Program in Speech-Language Pathology and the Bachelor Program in Speech-Language and Hearing Sciences in Dar Al-Hekma University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Dr. Yaser received his doctorate degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Howard University, Washington DC, USA in 2007. He also holds two master’s degrees in the same field. He received his first master’s degree in Speech Pathology and Communication Disorders from the University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan in 1994 and his second master’s degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology from San Jose' State University, San Jose', California, USA in 1999. Dr. Al-Sa'bi is a bilingual ASHA-certified speech-language pathologist (SLP). Dr. Al-Sa’bi was the Head of Hearing Rehabilitation Unit at King Abdullah Ear Specialist Center (KAESC) in King Saud University, Riyadh, KSA between September 2015 and September 2016. Dr. Al-Sa'bi worked as a consultant SLP at the Prince Georges County Public Schools, Maryland, USA, for four years between 2004 and 2008 and as an assistant professor at the Jordan University for Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan between 2008 and 2009. Dr. Al-Sa'bi also worked as a bilingual speech-language pathologist and a clinical supervisor at Jeddah Institute for Speech and Hearing (JISH), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, between 1996 and 2003. He also worked as the Head of Clinical Research Unit, bilingual speech-language pathologist and a clinical supervisor at Jeddah Institute for Speech and Hearing (JISH), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, between July 2009 and May 2015. Dr. Al-Sa'bi has developed and standardized many assessment tools in Arabic such as the Jordanian Expressive Vocabulary test (JEVT), Saudi Expressive Vocabulary Test, JISH Articulation Test (JAT), and JISH School Readiness Screening Test.