The Samah Team
Eman Serhan: Founder and Program Director
As the saying goes – behind every great organisation there is a woman. For Samah Projects, that woman is Eman Serhan. As Founder, Eman is on a mission to educate and support individuals from all walks of life to overcome challenges and realise their full potential. Her journey in education began over two decades ago as a teacher’s aide in a local school, eventually leading her to co-found Emali Early Learning Centre—an Adelaide-based, family-owned childcare business now operating across nine locations and providing thousands of children with a safe and nurturing environment. Samah Projects is the culmination of Eman’s professional and personal journey to be of service to the community, delivering school-based and online education programs, private mentoring, and international aid projects in collaboration with global organisations, all driven by her passion for creating lasting impact through education.
As the saying goes – behind every great organisation there is a woman. For Samah Projects, that woman is Eman Serhan. As Founder, Eman is on a mission to educate and support individuals from all walks of life to overcome challenges and realise their full potential. Her journey in education began over two decades ago as a teacher’s aide in a local school, eventually leading her to co-found Emali Early Learning Centre—an Adelaide-based, family-owned childcare business now operating across nine locations and providing thousands of children with a safe and nurturing environment. Samah Projects is the culmination of Eman’s professional and personal journey to be of service to the community, delivering school-based and online education programs, private mentoring, and international aid projects in collaboration with global organisations, all driven by her passion for creating lasting impact through education.
Jinan Mehio: Program Creator
Jinan Mehio has been an integral part of Samah Projects since its inception, playing a key role in the development and delivery of its programs. A 2007 graduate with a double degree in Laws & Legal Practice and Commerce, Jinan also brings over a decade of experience running successful businesses in Adelaide. Beyond her academic and professional expertise, Jinan is a mother of three and a passionate advocate for conscious parenting and intentional living. Her own personal journey of self-growth and transformation over the past three years has deepened her commitment to helping others become the most conscious, empowered versions of themselves—an ethos that shines through in everything she contributes to Samah.
Huda Serhan: Project Consultant
Huda Serhan brings to Samah Projects a wealth of knowledge from her private and public sector experience as a business consultant. Huda is a commerce graduate and has gone on to obtain a Masters in Economics. Having served as a lecturer at a leading Australian University, Huda appreciates the important role educators play in the lives of children and young adults alike. As a mother of 3 young girls, Huda is passionate about the work Samah does to incite change. With our programs that aim at empowering individuals to become more effective teachers, mentors, and just as importantly – parents Huda’s personal and professional experience helps to the guide the way.
Linh Huynh: Learning and Behaviour Support Specialist
Linh is our dedicated Learning and Behaviour Support Specialist, bringing warmth, wisdom, and creativity into every classroom she enters. With a background in psychology and counselling AND a deep passion for children’s development, Linh works closely with both students and educators to create inclusive, nurturing learning environments where every child feels seen and supported. Her approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, yet infused with her unique poetic spirit, often using storytelling and creative expression to help children build emotional resilience and self-confidence. Her calm presence and unwavering belief in every child’s potential make her an irreplaceable part of the Samah Projects team.
Eman Elhelw: Project Officer
Eman Elhelw joined our team in early 2021 as our Project Officer at Samah Projects. Throughout her schooling and university, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Laws/Arts (Spanish Major), Eman maintained a strong passion for social justice. Samah Projects is the melting pot of Eman’s interests having worked and volunteered for several years with local community organisations, Women’s Legal Services, and University Student Societies. Eman is passionate about the diversification of media to convey the nuances of the multicultural fabric in society. Eman believes that the upcoming generation deserve education that empowers them, rather than disciplines them, as they are the gems of our future. Eman is so excited to work in cultivating effective education spaces, not only to pass on her knowledge and experience to youth, but to also learn from them.
Shereen Baassiri: Regional Manager - Lebanon
As a mother of 3 and 1 of 5 daughters, Shereen Baassiri has always been surrounded by strong women getting things done. This attitude took her on a successful career consulting for an international clothing brand both in Lebanon and abroad. Yet, her passion for family and generosity never left her. In recent years, Shereen traded the go-getter lifestyle for a go-giving lifestyle. Shereen now heads the Middle Eastern Humanitarian Aid branch of Samah Projects. Her efforts on the ground allows Samah to achieve its far-reaching effect. Particularly during our Beirut Appeal in response to the 2020 blast – where Shereen could be found on the streets which were affected handing out crucial supplies to those who needed it most.
Khalil El Jamal: Project Manager - Lebanon
Khalil brings over 20 years of experience in project management across diverse industries, ranging from technology to construction. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated the ability to adapt to dynamic environments, swiftly identifying potential roadblocks and devising innovative solutions to keep projects on track. One of Khalil's standout qualities is his adeptness in fostering collaboration among stakeholders. He believes in harnessing the unique strengths of each individual, effectively leveraging their skills to create a motivated workforce. His passion for project management, coupled with his unwavering dedication to excellence, makes him a valuable asset to The Samah Projects Team.