Maha Kamel

Maha Kamel is an associate director within the Strategic Philanthropy pillar at the Milken Institute, where she supports strategic planning, organizational effectiveness, and cross-portfolio collaboration. 

Kamel brings nearly a decade of experience leading strategy, partnerships, and global programs at the US Department of State. She has advised senior leaders on complex policy challenges, managed foreign assistance portfolios across the Middle East, North Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean, and cultivated partnerships among government, philanthropy, the private sector, and civil society to advance sustainable social impact. Her work has included designing multi-stakeholder initiatives, strengthening organizational processes, and translating strategic priorities into measurable outcomes. 

Kamel is passionate about helping mission-driven organizations maximize their impact through thoughtful strategy, strong partnerships, and operational excellence. She is an alumna of American University's School of International Service, the Critical Language Scholarship, and the Gilman International Program. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring new restaurants and coffee shops throughout Washington, DC. She is based in the Milken Institute’s Washington, DC, office.