Mr. Ahmed Shehata
Mr. Ahmed Shehata
Mr. Ahmed Shehata was appointed as a UNHCR Eminent Advocate on 25 September 2025 in recognition of his deep commitment to supporting refugees both in his personal capacity and as CEO of IDEA (Islamic Development & Empowerment in America, formerly Islamic Relief USA). As an Eminent Advocate, Mr. Shehata will continue to champion the rights of refugees and other forcibly displaced people, helping to increase public awareness and mobilize broader support for UNHCR’s work worldwide.
Mr. Ahmed Shehata is a renowned humanitarian leader and advocate for refugees. For nearly two decades, Mr. Shehata has been working in the humanitarian space, distinguishing himself as an expert in the American Muslim philanthropic, community development, and humanitarian NGO sector.
Mr. Shehata currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer of IDEA (Islamic Development & Empowerment in America, formerly Islamic Relief USA). In this role, Mr. Shehata oversees a portfolio surpassing $200 million in domestic and international development and humanitarian programs, driving immediate relief, resilience, and sustainable solutions to complex global crises.
Mr. Shehata has led innovative efforts to address the rapidly growing refugee response. In 2024, Mr. Shehata spearheaded a strategic partnership between IDEA and USA for UNHCR (UNHCR’s national partner in the United States), committing $25 million over five years to support refugees worldwide.
This partnership mobilizes Zakat and charitable giving to respond to the critical needs of refugees around the globe, including in Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East.
Mr. Shehata has been a key supporter of UNHCR’s Islamic Philanthropy work, providing valuable insights on how to mobilize the American Muslim community to further support refugees. In his personal appointment as Eminent Advocate, he will lead a wide-scale and urgent global campaign to engage support in rebuilding a hopeful future for Syria.