Majd Karam

What skills will you contribute to the NCF Board?

Technology and Experience–I have an extensive experience working in software development projects as a business analysis and project manager in the banking and telecommunications sectors in different regions of the world. I came face to face with the challenges that face technological projects, and I am equipped with the knowledgeto provide insights on best polices and strategies to tackle them.

Governance and Strategic Knowledge-I had an MBA from Telfer School of Management in 2017, where I practiced organizational governance, strategic management, policies and organizational behaviour in the forms of team projects, simulations, and business events. Moreover, I dida management consulting project at Export Development Canada (EDC) on international policies of doing business in the BRICS countries. I was also part of the student exchange program in France, where I studied “doing business in Europe”.

Innovation and People Skills-I am currently doing my PhD in Digital Transformation and Innovation at the Faculty of Engineering at uOttawa, where I study Canadian Entrepreneurs at Canadian Universities. I’ve been developing a strong network of entrepreneurs and funding agencies in the Ottawa Region, which I think will be of a great use to NCF.

What are the most important functions of the NCF for its members?

At these rapidly changing times, Internet is no longer a luxury or a nice-to-have commodity, it’s a necessity that not only is keeping us up to date with what’s going on inthe world, but up to very recently it had been the only way through which we can communicate! This challenging time of COVID19, we came to realize more and more the importance of the internet in our lives for our mental wellbeing and for our social skills to stay somewhat vibrant!

People who cannot afford the commercial networks should still be able to access speedy internet with as little cost as possible, should have trainings on cyber security practices and best internet guidelines so that they know how to protect themselves from cyberthreats that are lurking around behind their screens, and should be able to connect with other members and exchange their skills and knowledge;features that are offered by NCF and of utmost importance to us all.

Why do you want to be an NCF director?

I have the analytical mind that always helps me find ways to improve the status quo, I also have the knowledge and the experience to provide guidelines on how to do that. Bringing my innovative ideas, using my network, and my vast knowledge to NCF will help the Ottawa community stay connected wherever they live and regardless of how much they earn. NCF is doing a great thing for our community, and currently when almost all our lives are on the internet, it’s becoming more crucial than ever, and I want to be part of this good.

As an immigrant to Canada 7 years ago, I know the challenges and I appreciate the help that can be offered to all those who need it. As the community helped me when I first came in, I want to help by giving back.

Majd Karam (gc029)