Ahmed Shehata

CEO @IslamicRelief
Dedicated to transforming lives through compassion and faith-inspired action

[Islamic Relief USA @IslamicRelief]

🚨 Islamic Relief USA is committing $25M over 5 years to support @WFP + @WFPUSA in fighting global hunger 🌍

Kicking off with $5M in emergency food aid for Gaza 🍞❤️‍🩹🏘️🌱

Together, we’re delivering lifesaving aid + building resilient communities. #EndHunger
🙌 Read More: https://t.co/XT6okLKH7g

[Ahmed Shehata @AShehataCEO]

One act of kindness ripples!

Host communities share more than resources, they share lives, homes, and hope. Supporting them ensures both locals and displaced families can thrive together, where everyone can rebuild, recover, and belong.

[Ahmed Shehata @AShehataCEO]

When we make room for each other, we make space to pour into one another, as communities and individuals. This role carries deep personal meaning for me. It’s not just a title, it’s a responsibility to use whatever voice, platform, and resources I have to help protect and uplift those who’ve been forced to flee their homes. I believe advocacy isn’t about speaking for others, it’s about standing beside them. Listening. Learning. Acting with care and conviction.

And I hope this role brings me closer to achieving this mission.

Learn more at: https://t.co/c1OU4F8xZ6

@UNRefugeeAgency
@IslamicRelief

[USA for UNHCR @UNRefugeeAgency]

ATTN: @UNRefugeeAgency is excited to recognize @AShehataCEO as an Eminent Advocate for UNHCR.

In this role, Shehata will work closely with UNHCR to amplify refugee voices, fundraise and promote sustainable solutions for displaced people.

Read more: https://t.co/Tu9GVuaPhB

[Islamic Relief USA @IslamicRelief]

We just published our latest blog “Ahmed Shehata, CEO of IRUSA, Named Eminent Advocate for UNHCR” on @Medium https://t.co/Td4GnGdD3s #blog #blogger #follow #relieflab

[Islamic Relief USA @IslamicRelief]

(2/2) "UNHCR is honored to recognize Ahmed Shehata as an Eminent Advocate. Over several years, Mr. Shehata has demonstrated a strong commitment to advocating for refugees both in his personal capacity and as CEO of Islamic Relief USA," said Filippo Grandi, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. "Shehata is an essential voice promoting and mobilizing support for refugees around the world." @FilippoGrandi @UNRefugeeAgency

[Islamic Relief USA @IslamicRelief]

(1/2) 🧵 Islamic Relief USA is proud to announce that our CEO, Ahmed Shehata, has been honored as an Eminent Advocate for the United Nations High Commissioner for @Refugees (UNHCR) on the margins of #UNGA. https://t.co/qlCXfTkFpG

[Filippo Grandi @FilippoGrandi]

UNHCR is committed to partnerships that can transform the lives of refugees and bring lasting solutions. Meeting with US faith-based humanitarian organizations was a reminder of the importance of working together.

Thank you @IslamicRelief for convening and for supporting us!

[Ahmed Shehata @AShehataCEO]

Health is a fundamental human right, yet millions still lack access to essential care.

This year, World Health Day kicked off a year-long campaign on maternal and newborn health

Close to 300,000 women lose their life due to pregnancy or childbirth each year, while over 2 million babies die in their first month of life and around 2 million more are stillborn.

That’s roughly 1 preventable death every 7 seconds.

[Ahmed Shehata @AShehataCEO]

Every individual deserves to be seen, heard, and supported.

Did you know that autistic people face discrimination and barriers across all sectors of society? On #WorldAutismAwarenessDay, let’s commit to fostering inclusivity, advocate support, and break down barriers to education and employment.

[Ahmed Shehata @AShehataCEO]

As Ramadan draws to a close, let's not forget the significance of Zakat al-Fitr in purifying our fasts, supporting and making a meaningful impact in the lives of those in need.

A small contribution can provide food, bring joy, and ensure that everyone can celebrate Eid with dignity. Let's ensure we fulfill this obligation before Eid prayer with sincerity and gratitude to Allah.

[Ahmed Shehata @AShehataCEO]

Nearly two-thirds of the blessed month of #Ramadan have passed so quickly, and the final days are now upon us. As we approach Laylat al-Qadr - the single night more powerful than a thousand months - let us remember that no good deed goes unnoticed by the Almighty.

Just as this night and this month are amplified in their blessings, so too are our small acts of kindness. Every gesture of generosity, every prayer, and every moment of service has the power to bring lasting change to our world.

[Ahmed Shehata @AShehataCEO]

Patience isn’t just about waiting—it’s about how we respond when things don’t go our way.

True patience is tested in frustration, when someone wrongs us, or when we’re tempted to react in anger. Fasting teaches us that restraint isn’t weakness—it’s strength.

This week, take a deep breath before reacting. Pause, reflect, and remind yourself: "This too shall pass."

Ibn 'Abbas said: "The Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, 'Teach and make it easy. Teach and make it easy.' (three times). He then said, 'When you are angry, be silent' (twice)." (Al-Albani)

[Ahmed Shehata @AShehataCEO]

Behind every strong community is a woman who has made sacrifices, broken barriers, and uplifted others.

From mothers and daughters to leaders and change-makers, women shape a better world every day. Yet, millions of girls worldwide are still denied the right to education—one of the most powerful tools for change.

This #InternationalWomensDay, we should commit to empowering women and girls through education, opportunity, and support. When we invest in them, we invest in stronger communities and a brighter future for all.

[Ahmed Shehata @AShehataCEO]

One week into Ramadan, and I had to pause and ask myself: Am I truly present in my fasting, or is it just routine?

We always hear that intentions matter most, but this week, I realized how easy it is to go through the motions—waking up for suhoor, fasting, breaking fast—without really checking in with our hearts.

Ramadan is not about hunger or thirst. It’s about realigning our purpose and remembering why we’re doing this in the first place.

The Prophet ﷺ said: ‘Actions are judged by intentions.’ (Bukhari & Muslim)

So I ask myself, and I ask you—why are we fasting? What’s one intention you want to renew this Ramadan?

[Ahmed Shehata @AShehataCEO]

We don’t have to be conservationists to make a difference for wildlife. Small actions like reducing plastic use, supporting sustainable products, and planting trees can create a lasting impact. This #WorldWildlifeDay, let’s start with at least one small change.

[Ahmed Shehata @AShehataCEO]

Ramadan Mubarak! 🌙
Ramadan is a reminder that true wealth lies in giving. It is a time to renew our faith and realign our hearts. Fasting is not just about abstaining from food; it’s about self-discipline, patience, and purifying the soul.

May this Ramadan bring peace, clarity, and purpose to us all.

"When Ramadan begins, the gates of Jannah are opened, the gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are chained.’ (Bukhari & Muslim)"

[Ahmed Shehata @AShehataCEO]

With crises multiplying, how do we keep compassion alive?

Donor fatigue is real, but the need is greater than ever.

As humanitarians, we must remember that while we are exhausted from hearing about the painful stories, others are forced to live it. It's our duty to tell the stories behind the numbers and remind the world: every life saved is worth the effort.