Maria was born and grew up in Beirut, Lebanon. She has always been passionate about helping others and having an impact on their lives, especially in improving the health and wellbeing of communities.

Maria studied BSc Nutrition and Dietetics at the American University of Beirut (AUB) during which she was placed several times on the Dean’s honour’s list, in recognition of Academic excellence. 

While at AUB, she spent her 1st year’s summer vacation in Cape Town, South Africa where she volunteered in a slum preschool. “It was the most eye-opening and life changing experience and those kids have taught me so much through their constant smiles, affection, and gratefulness.”

Right after graduation, Maria completed a one-year internship at Hotel Dieu de France (HDF), a major hospital in Lebanon, during which she worked closely with in-patients from various backgrounds, as well as outpatients in a dispensary affiliated to the hospital. She was able to hold several awareness sessions around breastfeeding and weaning. 

Maria studied MPH (master’s in Public Health) at Imperial College London. She chose ICL for its high-quality STEM education, as well as its reputation and consistent ranking among the top 10 universities in the best student city in the world. Maria chose this program to build her skills in Public Health, alongside nutrition.  

“I hope that once I graduate with my master’s degree, I will be able to make a difference at the level of communities where I will intervene and keep Lebanon and the region which have been going through infinite conflicts and despair, close to my heart.”