Founder

Khalil Kanbar

Khalil Kanbar founded the Kanbar Foundation because he understands what it feels like to have your ability measured by a system that does not reflect how you learn or what you can build. As a college student, Khalil struggled in environments centered on textbooks, homework, and GPA-based evaluation. Those measurements limited his access to scholarship opportunities, even though they did not represent his knowledge, initiative or entrepreneurial ability. Khalil later graduated from the University of San Diego and built a successful career as an entrepreneur. His experience convinced him that talented students are often overlooked because educational and scholarship systems recognize only one kind of performance. He created the Kanbar Foundation to find first-generation students who have already taken action, whether by starting a business, organization, community program, campaign or other initiative. The Foundation brings those students together and connects them with mentors, resources, and opportunities that can help them keep building. Khalil’s belief is simple: leadership should not be determined only by grades, credentials or access. It should also be recognized through initiative, resourcefulness and proof of action.