In a world frequently challenged by crises—ranging from natural disasters and conflicts to displacement and poverty—humanitarian aid becomes more than mere assistance; it becomes a vital lifeline. At the forefront of one of the most influential humanitarian organizations in the United States is Dr. Hany Saqr, CEO of LIFE for Relief and Development. His empathetic, ethically grounded leadership and unwavering dedication to serving the underserved have propelled LIFE from a modest charitable initiative into a global force of hope and recovery.
This profile highlights Dr. Saqr’s motivations, the obstacles he has encountered, and the core principles and strategies that have shaped LIFE’s evolution into a leading humanitarian organization.
A Call to Service: What Inspired Dr. Saqr
Dr. Hany Saqr’s journey into humanitarian work was driven not by career ambitions but by a profound emotional response to human suffering. From a young age, he was deeply moved by the hardships faced by communities worldwide. This emotional connection transformed into a moral commitment—to take action against injustice and hardship.
His dedication led him to co-found LIFE for Relief and Development in 1992, an organization founded on values of compassion, equality, and integrity. For Dr. Saqr, LIFE became the platform to translate empathy into tangible aid. His passion soon evolved into purposeful leadership, aiming to expand the organization’s reach and impact through strategic growth.
Tackling Crisis Zones: Persistent Challenges
One of the primary hurdles Dr. Saqr has faced is providing aid in volatile and complex environments. Conflict zones often present political, legal, and logistical barriers. “Sometimes, even moving basic supplies across borders becomes a diplomatic challenge,” he explains. Such obstacles threaten the success of critical missions.
Nevertheless, Dr. Saqr’s resilience lies in his advocacy, strategic problem-solving, and ability to forge trustworthy relationships with local authorities, political entities, and international partners. His emphasis on impartiality and urgency has enabled LIFE to maintain access and deliver aid even in the most difficult regions.
A Philosophy of Empowerment and Collaboration
Dr. Saqr’s leadership philosophy is built on three pillars: teamwork, transparency, and empowerment. “Leadership isn’t about issuing orders; it’s about aligning everyone around a shared vision,” he states. At LIFE, this approach manifests through clear goal-setting, active listening, and encouraging staff ownership of responsibilities.
By fostering a collaborative, communicative environment, Dr. Saqr ensures that LIFE’s mission is a lived reality throughout the organization. His hands-on leadership and open-door policy cultivate a culture of trust and purpose, empowering employees at every level.
Balancing Innovation with Stability
In an ever-changing global landscape, humanitarian work demands both innovative approaches and operational stability. Dr. Saqr prioritizes data-driven decision-making and rigorous pilot testing for new programs. Initiatives undergo thorough research and multiple trials before scaling.
He promotes a culture that encourages innovation while emphasizing responsibility. “When lives are on the line, there’s no room for failure,” he notes. “We test, learn, and scale with care.”
Fostering Talent and Mentorship
A strong believer in internal growth, Dr. Saqr emphasizes recognizing and nurturing talent within LIFE. He advocates for continuous education, professional development, and mentorship as vital to the organization’s evolution.
Staff are encouraged to pursue certifications, participate in workshops, and enhance their skills. “When one team member grows, the whole organization benefits,” he affirms. Mentorship plays a crucial role, guiding less experienced staff to develop their leadership potential.
LIFE’s Impact and Legacy
Founded in 1992, LIFE for Relief and Development is committed to alleviating suffering and upholding dignity in crisis-affected communities. Its programs encompass emergency relief, clean water initiatives, orphan sponsorship, education, healthcare, and community development.
Since its inception, LIFE has distributed nearly $600 million in humanitarian aid. In 2023 alone, it sponsored over 13,000 orphans, constructed nearly 300 water wells, and distributed $16 million in medical supplies. Recognized with a 95% rating on Charity Navigator, the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar, and an endorsement from USAID, LIFE stands as a leader in the humanitarian sector—trusted for both its impact and its accountability.
Harnessing Technology for Greater Impact
Under Dr. Saqr’s leadership, LIFE has integrated advanced technology into its operations. The organization has digitized internal systems, modernized donor engagement, and adopted tools like AI, satellite imagery, and data analytics for fieldwork.
These technological advancements enable LIFE to respond swiftly, allocate resources efficiently, and reach remote or hard-to-access areas with precision—making aid delivery faster and more effective.
Adapting to Global Needs
Dr. Saqr ensures LIFE remains agile by continuously assessing needs and engaging with local partners. The organization’s consultative status with the United Nations helps forecast emerging issues and coordinate responses.
For example, when shelter became an urgent concern in Gaza, LIFE swiftly sourced and delivered thousands of tents based on real-time field feedback and global insights. This rapid response earned the organization a worldwide recognized Dubai Humanitarian Award.
Milestones and Future Expansion
LIFE’s ability to act quickly during crises has driven its growth. Its extensive work in Gaza garnered international attention, boosting credibility and support. Recently, LIFE expanded into Yemen, Kenya, Malaysia, and Somalia—guided by thorough market analysis and local demand—marking new chapters in its mission to serve vulnerable populations worldwide.
The Secret to LIFE’s Longevity
According to Dr. Saqr, the key to LIFE’s enduring success is its people. “Our staff, donors, and partners are the heart of everything we do,” he emphasizes. Through transparency, innovation, and heartfelt commitment, LIFE continues to strengthen and expand its impact.
Ultimately, LIFE for Relief and Development under Dr. Hany Saqr exemplifies what can be achieved when compassion is paired with strategic action—and how one individual’s resolve can catalyze meaningful change on a global scale.
“Our goal is to provide donors with an opportunity to invest in the future of communities that lack basic services for community members.”
