Passion Inspires, Discipline Delivers, with Maher Kaddoura

Money Tales

In this episode of Money Tales, our guest is Maher Kaddoura. At just 13 years old, Maher embarked on a solo journey that would forever change his perspective on life and money. Traveling alone, across international borders, taking buses and hitchhiking, Maher explored Turkey and Bulgaria. As the son of a refugee, Maher was no stranger to the survival instinct. From a young age, it was ingrained in him that he had to earn money for anything he wanted. Maher discovered that money earned through his own hard work and effort tasted much sweeter. He also learned that he had control over his choices. Maher believed that if he improved his decision-making process when it came to money that would increase the chances of financial success and create a better future for himself.

Maher Kaddoura stands out as role model of innovation and social entrepreneurship. As a former managing partner at Accenture-Middle East and a seasoned entrepreneur, Maher has founded several firms that are leaders in their fields, from strategy consulting to system integration. His investments and board roles span a variety of sectors, illustrating his versatile business acumen and dedication to fostering growth in the knowledge economy and beyond.

Maher serves on the advisory boards of prestigious institutions such as the National University of Singapore (NUS), University of Chicago, and the Buck Institute, where his strategic insights significantly enhance their initiatives in research and education. His global perspective enriches these institutions, bridging the gap between academic theory and real-world application.

Maher recently authored “The Art of Leapfrogging,” a book that encapsulates his innovative approach to bypassing traditional steps in problem-solving and development to achieve accelerated results. This publication has positioned him as a thought leader, further extending his influence in the realms of social change and entrepreneurship.

Maher’s commitment to societal improvement is evident through his founding of Al-Jude NGO in 1999, which spearheads high-impact social programs. His “Falafel Theory” of maximizing resources for widespread benefit drives his initiatives, such as the Hikmat Road Safety program and the MeshMosta7eel TV show, which challenges participants to tackle national issues creatively.

An avid adventurer, Maher’s travels to over 100 countries enrich his understanding and appreciation of global cultures. His experiences from the Arctic to the mountains of South America are not just adventures but also a source of inspiration and learning that he shares through his engaging storytelling and street photography.