Andrew Leon Hanna is an American lawyer, entrepreneur, author, and international human rights advocate, recognized for his commitment to empowering marginalized communities. The son of Egyptian immigrants, Hanna’s personal background informs his passionate advocacy for refugee rights. His acclaimed book, *25 Million Sparks: The Untold Story of Refugee Entrepreneurs*, published by Cambridge University Press, highlights the entrepreneurial spirit of Syrian women in the Za’atari refugee camp and profiles refugee entrepreneurs worldwide. In 2018, he was awarded the Financial Times and McKinsey Bracken Bower Prize for this impactful work.
In addition to his literary accomplishments, Hanna has played an active role in global discussions on youth and development. In 2011, he was one of two American delegates selected by the U.S. State Department to represent the United States at the 7th UNESCO Youth Forum in Paris. His involvement extended to the UN High-Level Panel on the Post-2015 Development Agenda, where he contributed to shaping the Sustainable Development Goals during youth meetings in London and Bali.
Hanna’s advocacy efforts have garnered significant recognition, including being named one of Forbes’ 30 Under 30 in Law and Policy in December 2019. His work emphasizes the importance of addressing systemic barriers faced by refugees and advocates for inclusive policies that foster entrepreneurship and self-sufficiency.
Through his legal expertise and commitment to social justice, Andrew Leon Hanna continues to be a powerful voice for change, inspiring others to recognize the potential within displaced communities and championing their rights on the global stage.