Arab American Business & Professional Association

ABPA has a new Vice President! Rima Sweiss has been elected by the ABPA Board of Directors to begin her term January 1, 2023. A long-time community organizer, Ms. Sweiss joined ABPA in 2021 and made an immediate impact serving on committees to help develop ABPA emPOWER, Back2School Kicks Chicago, and is currently Co-Chair for the Civic Engagement Council for the Community Retail Association. “I am humbled and honored by this opportunity to step into the shoes of Miss Vivian Khalaf” Sweiss said.  The work of ABPA has been integral in the upward mobility of Arab Americans in our local and national business environments.  I thank ABPA members for their trust in me and I look forward to our growth as a community.”

Ms. Sweiss begins her tenure as Vice President during a pivotal time. The organization enters its next phase to serve the Arab American and MENA community including the Economic Development Center and the launch of business directory app weMENAbiz.com. Also, the transition of ABPA becoming a 501 (c)(3) entity. “I am excited to have Rima as our next VP” says ABPA president Rush Darwish. “She hit the ground running on day 1 when she joined the board and has a deep understanding as to what we are trying to accomplish”.  Rima Sweiss replaces past Vice President Vivian Khalaf, who recently accepted the role as Chairwoman of PCRF.