Sahar Kordahi is a community builder, coach, and speaker who assists women to create powerful communities that foster personal and business growth and leadership.  A Palestinian woman, Sahar lived in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan before immigration to the Bay Area. Her life work is inspired by her late mother, Nuha Nafal, a widely respected Palestinian poet and peace activist.

In 2001, Sahar co-founded Castro Valley Citizens for Middle Eastern Awareness, a group of Christian, Muslim, and Jewish women who educated their local community about the cultures of the Middle East through personal stories and human connection. In 2008, Sahar founded the Bright Side of Life Women’s Gatherings, which bring together women of diverse backgrounds in a nurturing and supportive environment. As a speaker, Sahar shares her signature message, “I Belong.” In 2009 Sahar was named a Women-Owned Business of the Year by the Women’s Initiative for Self-Employment.

Sahar’s story is one of conviction, survival and strength. She is now bringing these messages to the Palestinian and Israeli communities in northern California to facilitate dialogue and encourage forgiveness and acceptance. Her goal is to help Arabs and Jews begin a process of “translating judgment into love.”