KTH Path of Truth Award Presented to Mehdi Hasan

Know Thy Heritage (KTH) proudly celebrated its 11^th International Palestinian Diaspora Conference and Awards Banquet on Friday and Saturday, September 26–27, 2025. The gathering brought together Palestinians from the homeland and the diaspora, alongside their allies, in a powerful demonstration of unity, collaboration, and commitment to the peace and prosperity of Palestine.

One of the most inspiring aspects of the weekend was the presence of over 300 participants from diverse fields—including healthcare, ICT, business, education, and civil society, representing more than 20 organizations and enterprises. With over 30 distinguished speakers and presenters, they came together under one shared vision: strengthening bonds, advancing opportunities, and empowering future generations.

At its core, the conference sought to inspire hope and resilience within Palestinian communities through collective action. By mobilizing Palestinians and allies worldwide, the event fostered strategic partnerships, business ventures, internships, and volunteer initiatives—all designed to contribute to national rebuilding and the path toward an independent and sovereign State of Palestine.

The two-day program had dynamic panels, interactive workshops, and in-depth discussions on Palestinian rights, political advocacy, advancing health and human security, and economic empowerment. Speakers and changemakers from across the globe engaged in meaningful dialogue and developed collaborative solutions for justice, peace, and the revitalization of the Palestinian economy.

Conference Highlights

• Awards Banquet & Resolutions:
  The KTH Awards Banquet marked the culmination of the 11^th International Palestinian Diaspora Conference by issuing a resolution outlining four concrete steps, outlined below, based on a unified action plan reflecting the movement’s shared vision, determination, and commitment to continue advancing the cause of Palestine.

• • Heritage on Display – Teta’s Legacy:
    The evening featured Teta’s Legacy, a breathtaking Palestinian traditional dress show. This vibrant showcase highlighted the creativity of Palestinian women artisans, reimagining the traditional thobe while preserving its cultural authenticity. The presentation was a living testament to the enduring strength of Palestinian heritage and its ability to inspire future generations.

    

    Ms. Nada Al-Hassan, Founder and Director of Teta’s Legacy showcased traditional Palestinian thobes through an engaging show at the Awards Banquet reception.

• Honoring Leaders of Truth and Solidarity:
  KTH proudly recognized distinguished individuals and organizations for their unwavering dedication to Palestine and its people:

• • The KTH 2025 Path of Truth Award was presented to Mr. Mehdi Hasan, Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Zeteo Company. For years, he has fearlessly used his voice, pen, and platform to reveal the harsh realities of Palestinian life under occupation. Through televised debates, published articles, and independent media, he has consistently challenged misinformation with clarity and courage. His powerful acceptance message can be viewed here.

• • The 2025 Palestinian People’s Solidarity Award was awarded to Bloom Charity, in recognition of its steadfast support for the people of Gaza, demonstrating compassion and leadership during times of great need.

• Inspiration from KTH Alumni:
  Two KTH Alumni delivered moving reflections, sharing how their personal journeys through the KTH Leadership Program shaped their perspectives, strengthened their identity, and deepened their commitment to serve Palestine.

• “The Key of Palestine”:
  As a symbol of return and hope, the Key of Palestine was presented to individuals who played pivotal roles in making the conference a success, including this year’s honorees. The gesture embodied the shared longing of the Palestinian diaspora to one day return home.

Panels & Speakers:

Over 30 thought leaders, professionals, and advocates led engaging sessions, sharing strategies to advance Palestine’s cause and strengthen diaspora engagement.

• Mobilizing the Diaspora: Leaders from politics, business, academia, and civil society highlighted the power of Palestinians abroad to unite generations, empower the youth, and mobilize networks for a sustainable Palestinian future.

• Spotlighting Gaza—Now and Beyond: Testimonies from families and experts revealed the human toll of war while urging humanitarian relief and long-term rebuilding efforts in healthcare, infrastructure, education, and mental health.

• Doing Business in Palestine: Speakers emphasized opportunities in trade, exports, and consumer markets despite political barriers, with practical insights on fostering economic resilience and investment.

• Advancing ICT & Innovation: Panelists examined Palestine’s growing tech ecosystem, stressing entrepreneurship, AI, university partnerships, and diaspora-led investment. A key proposal was the creation of a U.S.-based Palestinian ICT Business & Investment Office.

• Roundtable on U.S. and Western Policy: Civic and interfaith leaders reflected on shifting international perspectives on Palestine, discussing strategies to influence U.S. and Western policies in support of Palestinian rights.

• Special Presentation – Damascus Gate Foundation: Collaborative sessions focused on diaspora activation, sustainable development, and consolidating workshop outcomes into the final conference resolution.

Advancing Health, Human Security, and Dignity for Palestinians: This breakout session convened health and humanitarian leaders to address urgent needs in Palestine. The discussions highlighted the ongoing relief efforts in Gaza and the West Bank, while exploring strategies to rebuild healthcare systems, strengthen infrastructure, support education, and promote social and mental well-being.

Keynote Address: Dr. Hanan Ashrawi, Chair of Birzeit University’s Board of Trustees, delivered an inspiring message and engaged in a thought-provoking conversation on Palestine’s future. The session was skillfully moderated by Khalil E. Jahshan, Executive Director of the Arab Center, Washington, DC.

Conference Resolutions Summary: Turning Dialogue into Action

Uniting thought leaders, advocates, innovators, health professionals, humanitarians, and business leaders, the participants of the 11^th KTH International Palestinian Diaspora Conference are committed to advancing Palestinian rights, justice, and peace through action-oriented dialogue and strategic collaboration. Guided by this spirit of unity and shared purpose, they resolve to work together to implement the following key resolutions.

1. Advocacy & Policy Influence – Strengthen efforts against the Israeli settler violence, engage U.S. policymakers, and mobilize faith communities, youth, and coalitions to amplify Palestinian voices and advance justice and dignity.
2. Technology & ICT Development – Build a cohesive Palestinian innovation ecosystem by supporting startups, creating jobs, mobilizing investments, and enhancing diaspora engagement through initiatives such as business guides, job boards, and appointed ICT liaisons in Palestine and the U.S.
3. Business, Trade & Investment – Promote sustainable economic growth by expanding trade and exports, supporting entrepreneurship and high-growth sectors, overcoming structural obstacles, and creating a Palestinian Business and Investment Office in the U.S. to serve as a hub for investment, startups, and tech-led economic development.
4. Health & Humanitarian Response – Establish PATCH (Palestinian Alliance for Tangible Coordination of Healthcare and Humanitarian Help) to coordinate aid, address mental and general health needs, provide orphan care, and deliver timely humanitarian support through collaborative networks.

Alumni and KTH DMV Chapter Support

The 11^th KTH Conference was made possible through the dedication and hard work of the KTH Alumni and members of the DMV Chapter, whose volunteer efforts were instrumental to its success. These committed young activists for Palestine ensured that every panel and session ran seamlessly and on time, skillfully moderating the two-day program and introducing all sessions and speakers with professionalism and passion. Their energy and leadership truly embodied the spirit of KTH.

Rabie Family Tribute

A special tribute goes to Sir Rateb Rabie and his family, who were instrumental in the management and success of the conference. From overseeing administration and registration to coordinating with the hotel on catering, welcoming participants, troubleshooting, and ensuring the smooth flow of all events—including the two-day conference and the Awards Banquet—their tireless dedication was evident at every step. The Rabie family devoted countless hours of preparation to make this event a success, drawing on more than 30 years of experience supporting Sir Rateb in his lifelong mission for Palestine.

Partners and Supporters

This achievement would not have been possible without the many individuals who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the conference’s success. Special gratitude goes to Ms. Jihan ElHussaini, Dr. Manal Fakhoury, and Ms. Souhair Fakhoury for their exceptional dedication and support. Of course, heartfelt thanks also go to our speakers, partners, and sponsors, whose collective efforts made this remarkable event a reality.

Conclusion

The 11^th KTH Conference was not only a celebration of Palestinian resilience and unity, but also a global platform that brought together thought leaders, advocates, and innovators to advance Palestinian rights, justice, and peace through action-oriented dialogue and strategic collaboration. It united interfaith and international voices to confront urgent humanitarian challenges, strengthen the Palestinian economy, and mobilize the diaspora for sustainable nation-building. Above all, it reaffirmed a shared commitment to transform dialogue into action. Building on this momentum, KTH and its partners will continue working to advance these resolutions and translate them into tangible initiatives that empower communities and fortify the Palestinian homeland.

About KTH

Know Thy Heritage (KTH) is a global, volunteer-driven initiative dedicated to empowering the Palestinian Diaspora—especially youth—by deepening their connection to their identity, culture, and homeland. Through education, leadership, and engagement, KTH builds bridges between Palestinians in the Diaspora and those in Palestine, fostering unity, preserving heritage, and promoting Palestine as a land of opportunity and sanctity. Join us in strengthening this global network and advancing the collective vision for a free and thriving Palestine. Learn more at www.kthps.org