Basma Alawee is the Deputy Executive Director for the Community Sponsorship Hub. Prior to that she was the National Campaign Director for We Are All America at National Partnership for New Americans. Basma led organizing efforts in more than 21 states to push for policy changes and support for the inclusion of refugee and immigrant communities. But her impact doesn’t stop there. In 2019, she founded WeaveTales, an organization that develops storytelling training programs and amplifies the voices of over 300 refugees and immigrants.
Basma’s passion for advocacy is rooted in her own experiences as a former refugee from Iraq. Her tireless work has earned her numerous accolades including the Jacksonville EVE Award in 2020, Athena40’s “40 Under 40” in 2021, and Grant Thornton’s Purple Paladin in 2022. She is also co-designed and serves on the US Refugee Advisory Board, where she previously served as the first refugee advisor on the US Government Delegation to UNHCR’s annual Executive Committee.
Basma Alawee is a true champion for the rights of refugees and immigrants, using her own story to empower others and effect change on a national level. As a partner, leader and advocate, she is committed to centering lived experiences in inclusive policy design and decision-making. In her role, Basma creates space for diaspora communities and new actors to participate in the Welcome Corps and welcome refugee families arriving in America with the promise of freedom and opportunity.
