Bilal Faris

I’m Bilal Faris Ahmed, a civic leader, entrepreneur, and trainer passionate about empowering youth and building stronger communities in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. As President & Executive Director of the Chawy Zanko Organization (CZO), I have led initiatives in higher-education reform, youth leadership, civic participation, and good governance, working with partners such as NED, UNDP, UNAMI, and SPARK. Beyond my non-profit work, I’m also a Co-Partner of Dario Café – Erbil Branch, an Italian-inspired brand offering premium coffee and gelato. Through this venture, I combine my entrepreneurial drive with a passion for hospitality, creating spaces that bring people together. With over 8 years of experience in civil society and business, I continue to balance my roles as an advocate, trainer, and entrepreneur—committed to innovation, inclusion, and sustainable growth for my community .