Samer Saliba

Samer is a dedicated urban planner and migration expert with 14 years of experience, passionate about helping cities become more inclusive for migrants, displaced, and marginalized populations. He actively works to shift power from international humanitarian organizations to local actors, empowering city leaders to design and implement impactful policies and projects. mayorsmigrationcouncil+2

As the Director of City Practice at the Mayors Migration Council, Samer has significantly grown the Global Cities Fund for Migrants and Refugees, securing substantial funding and supporting numerous city grantees. His work involves unlocking technical and financial resources for cities, demonstrating a strong ability in fundraising and program implementation at a global scale. mayorsmigrationcouncil+1

His experience includes being a lead urban technical advisor at the International Rescue Committee, where he directly assisted cities like Amman, Athens, Milan, and Kampala. He has authored numerous publications and practitioner resources, contributing to best practices in urban humanitarian response and planning. mayorsmigrationcouncil+3

Samer's personal background as the son of Lebanese immigrants heavily influences his professional calling. He believes in maximizing the potential and agency of migrants and refugees, advocating for their involvement in city planning and decision-making, and challenging the perception of them as passive beneficiaries. tufts+1

Beyond his professional life, Samer is a keen enthusiast of conscious fashion, viewing clothing as an outlet and an opportunity to support ethical brands. He values well-made items from designers who prioritize fair wages and sustainable practices, reflecting a thoughtful approach to consumption and personal style. substack+1