Ziad Ghamraoui
Chairman
Ziad Ghamraoui is an experienced Senior IT Specialist who has worked in the government sector for over 25 years. He is a well-respected member of the Australian Muslim community, having held senior positions for community organisations such as the Lebanese Muslim Association (LMA) from 2005-2012. Ziad joined GIM Foundation as a Board Member in 2012, and became Chairman in 2019.
He is a passionate humanitarian who believes that the only way to overcome poverty in the long-term is through ethical, and conscientious development. He is committed to empowering vulnerable children, particularly in Africa where disadvantage holds many children back from reaching their full potential. His focus is on making life better for African children by ensuring that GIM delivers high-quality, free education across Burkina Faso, Togo and Ghana.
In his spare time, Ziad is a keen cyclist. He is a member of the Sydney Muslim Cycling Club which regularly hosts cycling events and fundraisers to build bridges within the Australian community and advance local and global causes.
When asked about why he is passionate about helping the children of Africa, Ziad says: “I remember one of the first times I went to visit one of GIM’s schools in Africa – as soon as the school children saw us, their eyes lit up. They were just full of innocence and incredibly grateful, even with the little that they have. I believe it’s our community responsibility to give these children the best chance at life by building a strong foundation for them – through quality education, a safe and secure environment and a happy upbringing.”
Bassam Tizani
Co-Founder and Treasurer
Amer Arnaout
Co-Founder
Sheikh Anas Burhan
Co-Founder and Spiritual Advisor
Sheikh Anas Burhan is one of the Co-Founders of GIM Foundation, and is currently the Spiritual Advisor for the organisation.
Having graduated from the Faculty of Islamic Law and Studies in Syria, he possesses a profound knowledge of Islamic principles.
For more than a decade, Sheikh Anas delivered Islamic education across Syria, leaving a lasting impact on countless individuals.
On relocating to Australia, he has worked as an Imam and Sheikh at various mosques in Sydney. In the Australian Muslim community, he is widely regarded as a highly respected figure, having played an instrumental role in educating young Australian Muslims about Islamic studies.
Sheikh Anas brings extensive expertise in family dispute resolution and is sought-after for his authoritative Fatwas on crucial Islamic matters. Currently, he serves as a member of the Australian National Imams Council (ANIC).
Salwan Ameen
Consultant
Salwan Ameen is a Consultant for GIM Foundation where he advises on program development, strategic growth and operational opportunities.
Salwan is an experienced senior executive and manager who has worked across both the
humanitarian and commercial sectors. He has over 30 years of experience in planning, developing, implementing and turning around businesses.
Salwan has a proven track record in global and country level program design and implementation, effective budget management and financial control, and in leading and coordinating large and small teams (including remotely).
Salwan is an active member of the Newcastle Muslim community, working with the Newcastle Muslim Association and Newcastle School Association since 2010. He is also a strategic advisor for I Hope International, an aid and development organisation based in Newcastle. He holds a Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering Management from UTS.
Salwan is passionate about creating holistic and sustainable change for vulnerable communities by strengthening community organisations and tackling root causes of poverty.
Sheikh Mohammed Khamis
Consultant
Sheikh Mohammed Khamis is a highly respected Imam and community leader based in Newcastle, NSW. He successfully completed Islamic studies, specialising in Islamic Jurisprudence, at Al-Azhar Institute in Cairo, Egypt. Before moving to Australia, Sheikh Khamis served as a Translator and Religious Advisor in Saudia Arabia.
He is the former President of the Australian National Imams Council (ANIC) and former Head of the Family Disputes Resolution Committee, where he served for 13 years. Previously, Sheikh Khamis has worked as a consultant for many reputable Islamic organisations.
He is currently a Spiritual Advisor for GIM Foundation where he advises on key Islamic matters pertaining to the organisation’s work. Reflecting on GIM’s work, Sheikh Khamis says: “GIM Foundation’s main work is to support vulnerable and orphan children globally. Our focus is to provide holistic support to these children so they can grow into healthy, happy adults with good character. Building character is more important than buildings – it is the foundation of strong communities and societies.”
