Meymuna Hussein-Cattan’s remarkable journey from being born in a refugee camp to becoming a CNN Hero and founder of two award-winning initiatives—The Tiyya Foundation and its social enterprise, Flavors From Afar, a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant—embodies resilience, hope, and triumph. As a daughter of refugees and a woman of color, her experiences shape her unique perspective and drive in every endeavor.

A devoted mother and wife, Meymuna upholds values of social justice, the arts, and cultural celebration, which are central to her work and commitment to the refugee community.

Champion for Refugees and Immigrants

Meymuna draws from her personal journey and professional experience to advocate for refugees and immigrants, developing programs that uplift and empower these communities. Her work with The Tiyya Foundation and Flavors From Afar provides essential support and raises vital awareness.

Educator and Mentor

Passionate about educating others on the resilience and contributions of refugees and immigrants, Meymuna aims to foster understanding of their challenges and provide resources for their success and integration. Her insights, drawn from lived experiences, infuse her educational efforts with deep empathy and impact.

Inspirational Speaker

Meymuna finds joy in speaking across the country to diverse audiences including college campuses, community leaders, corporations, and policymakers. She strives to inspire and motivate others to support and create inclusive environments for refugees and immigrants. Her presentations are crafted to evoke a range of emotions, leaving audiences inspired to contribute to positive change.

Thought Leader and Visionary

Offering a fresh perspective on the refugee and immigrant experience, Meymuna uses compelling stories to highlight their strength and potential. Her goal is to spark action and foster a deeper understanding of these crucial issues.

Speaking Topics:

• Advocating for Change: Strategies and policies that support refugee and immigrant rights.

• Building Inclusive Communities: Strategies for fostering supportive environments for refugees and immigrants.

• Celebrating Cultural Diversity: The role of arts and cultural celebrations in strengthening communities.

• Empowering Through Entrepreneurship: How social enterprises like Flavors From Afar create opportunities and build connections.

• International Cuisine and Preservation: The importance of preserving traditional recipes and international cuisine as a means of cultural heritage and community bonding.

Meymuna would be honored to speak at your next event sharing her journey and insights with your audience. To book her, please complete the speaker request form and allow up to 3-5 days for a response. Thank you for your consideration!