Michelle Tager has over 30 years of international experience in law and education. She founded and manages Alefb, a center promoting Arabic language and culture to children, and has been involved in tech-driven educational initiatives. As Executive Director of LebNet, she tripled its membership and expanded it to four cities, also launching a mentoring and accelerator program for Lebanese startups. She holds a Master’s in Law from Université de Paris II, a Mediation diploma from UC Berkeley, and a Leadership certificate from Stanford. Trilingual in Arabic, French, and English, Michelle contributes to tech and education through her work with USAID, the World Bank, and other NGOs.

As the founder and president of Alefb Arabic Online, What inspired you to create Alefb, and how has the program evolved over the years?

I created Alefb in 1994 after I had my first child in Bilad Al Hijra - Paris, France. I wanted to pass on my language and cultural heritage, so I used my legal background to start a nonprofit educational program teaching Arabic to children. At that time, teaching Arabic playfully as a foreign language was unprecedented.

Despite Arabic being considered challenging and having a mixed reputation, Alefb highlights its poetic beauty and richness, aiming to promote Arabic culture globally. With growing demand, especially in Gulf countries, we empower learners to showcase their Arabic skills. We also turn the latent identity crisis affecting heritage children into a powerful wealth.

Using Learning Experience Design (LXD), we tailor our teaching to individual needs for an engaging learning journey. Celebrating our 30th anniversary, we remain committed to making Arabic accessible and engaging. Through technology and online classes, we've achieved a 95% retention rate, proving our success.

What academic background and experiences have shaped your unique perspective on the intersection of law and education, and what advice would you offer to college students based on your journey?

I hold a master's degree in Law, with certifications in Mediation and Leadership in teaching foreign languages. My law degree has proved invaluable internationally, and my passion for education has led me to focus on civic education and combating corruption in education. I advise college students to pursue a broad foundation degree to gain essential skills and to stay curious in our changing world. To me, The relationship between law and education is profound: education empowers individuals to understand legal systems, while law governs behavior.

What has been your experience and impact in international development and education projects?

As an Independent Consultant, I managed MENA program activities for the Global Fund for Women, developed a network of advisers, awarded grants to local NGOs, and provided IT training for Yemeni women in San Francisco - CA.

For a USAID in Haiti, I designed a Citizen Education Strategy involving youth and women’s organizations, bar associations, and government institutions, and I led Rule of Law Public Awareness in the West Bank, reforming a school-based Civic Education program. At the World Bank Institute, I conducted blended learning activities across Francophone Africa and Arab countries.

All these initiatives significantly promoted education, governance, girls' education, Education for All, post-basic education, and employability in these regions.

As a leader in the Arab Film and Media Institute, how do you envision the future of Arab cinema and media, and what role do you see yourself playing in shaping that future?

Since 2005, I've been involved with this organization, starting as a volunteer promoting Arab films in schools. Later, through Alefb.org, I became a sponsor, then a board member, and now Chairwoman, focusing on funding and strategic initiatives.

For me AFMI plays a vital role for our community's cultural needs. Promoting Lebanese directors and films like "Heritages," "Capernaum," and "The Swimmers" has been rewarding. We embrace innovation, screening one of the first Arabic movies in VR in 2022.

My focus is on expanding access to Arab films in schools and colleges, and empowering young Arab and Arab American creators to shape their own narratives.

How did you become involved with LebNet, and what contributions have you made to further its mission of fostering entrepreneurship and innovation?

My involvement with LebNet showcased its networking mission. Initially connected through personal relationships with the founders, I was inspired by the dedication of all board members.

During my tenure as executive director, through LebNet Ignite, we facilitated the entrepreneurship movement, supported by the Lebanese government, assisting young Lebanese entrepreneurs to experience Silicon Valley's unique ecosystem.Today, it warms my heart to see the impact on these determined entrepreneurs. This fall, I'm thrilled to collaborate with Audrey Nakad, a graduate of LebNet Ignite, on a LebNet webinar about language learning and technology.

Another rewarding aspect has been the youth engagement through chapters, from college students to Early in Career, building a supportive community that empowers Lebanese professionals and drives economic growth.

Contributing to LebNet's mission by mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs, fostering partnerships, and advocating for Lebanese startups has been very gratifying.

What is your vision for the future of LebNet?

For me, LebNet is a vital platform for all Lebanese in tech, serving as the oldest network of Lebanese professionals in North America. Its vision of creating synergies among members is crucial for our community's advancement, both in our homeland and in our host countries.

I envision LebNet broadening its scope to encompass a wider range of professional sectors, recognizing that technology transcends industry boundaries. I see LebNet expanding internationally, fostering solidarity among members for mentoring, job opportunities, business collaborations, and innovation.

While funding has been a challenge, I believe establishing sustainable revenue streams is crucial. The vast network cultivated by LebNet presents opportunities for monetization through a robust membership program. I see momentum building towards this path, enabling LebNet to continue sparking innovation and driving positive change in Lebanon and beyond.