At the heart of a truly inclusive society lies a simple truth: every child’s mind…
The Crown of Inclusion: My Most Memorable Night
For over thirty years, I have stood before cameras, under bright studio lights, and on massive stages. I have interviewed stars, hosted grand competitions, and witnessed the glitz and glamour of Lebanese media. But on February 13, 2026, at the SKILD Center’s seventh annual Night to Shine, I realized that the most radiant “stars” aren’t found on a television screen—they are found on the red carpet of inclusion.
A Decade of Purpose
As someone who has navigated the Lebanese media landscape for decades, I’ve seen our society face unimaginable challenges. Yet, amidst the noise, the SKILD Center has spent over ten years quietly and consistently building a sanctuary of hope. Their work with children and youth with special needs isn’t just about “support”—it’s about dignity.
In my career, I’ve learned that visibility is power. For too long, individuals with special needs in Lebanon have been kept in the shadows, overlooked by policy and underserved by society. My professional journey has always been about bringing stories to life, and today, the most important story we can tell is one of absolute partnership and respect.
The Power of the Crown
When I was invited to participate in the crowning ceremony, I expected it to be a beautiful gesture. I didn’t realize it would be a transformative experience.
As a presenter, I am used to “crowning” winners of competitions. But at Night to Shine, there are no losers. Every guest who walked down that red carpet—greeted by cheering fans and flashing cameras—carried a level of confidence that was infectious.
When I placed the crowns and tiaras on these young Kings and Queens, I wasn’t just participating in a “charity event.” I was witnessing a redefinition of celebrity. By placing these individuals at the center of a high-profile, glamorous celebration, SKILD Center is forcing us to confront our unconscious biases. They are showing us that inclusion isn’t a favor we do for others; it is a necessity for a healthy, vibrant society.
Strategic Synergy: My Vision Meets SKILD Center’s Mission
People often ask me what makes a great “anchor.” My answer is always: Connection. My personal and professional vision has always centered on the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity. This is where my path meets the mission of SKILD. For over a decade, SKILD has moved beyond “pity.” They have created a model of partnership. They aren’t just helping people; they are empowering citizens.
As a media professional, I believe our role is to mirror the society we want to become. If we want a Lebanon that is inclusive, we must broadcast inclusion. Night to Shine is the ultimate “live broadcast” of what our community should look like every day: a place where differences are not just tolerated, but celebrated as beautiful.
Inclusion isn’t a favor we do for others; it is a necessity for a healthy and vibrant society.
A Call to My Fellow Citizens
To the parents, the educators, and the decision-makers reading this: inclusion is a choice we make every morning. It’s in the way we design our schools, the way we build our workplaces, and the way we treat our neighbors.
I left Night to Shine with my heart full, but also with a renewed sense of responsibility. We owe it to these Kings and Queens to ensure that the light they felt on that red carpet doesn’t dim when they walk out the door.
In Lebanon, we have always been known for our resilience. Let us now be known for our radical love and total inclusion. Every individual, regardless of ability, deserves their moment to shine. And trust me—when they do, they outshine everything else.
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