About Us

Fueled by Personal Experience and Passion

The Kanbar Foundation was founded by Khalil Kanbar to recognize first-generation college students whose leadership and ability may not be fully reflected through traditional academic measurements. Khalil’s own experience showed him that textbooks, homework and GPA-based evaluation can overlook talented people who learn differently, take initiative and build meaningful things. After graduating from the University of San Diego and building a successful career as an entrepreneur, Khalil created the Foundation to support students facing similar barriers. The Foundation began by providing scholarship support and has grown into a structured 10-week program centered on peer relationships, mentorship and action. Scholars enter the program with something already in motion, such as a business, organization, project, campaign or community solution. Through the permanent theme Entrepreneurship & Leadership in Action, the Foundation helps scholars strengthen what they have built, document their impact and form relationships that continue long after the program ends. Year 1 begins with a focused San Diego pilot, with a long-term vision of serving emerging leaders across the country.