Full Name
Hagir Elsheikh
Job Title
Chairwoman and CEO
Company
Hagir Network, Founder & Smile Inc.
Speaker Bio
Dr. Hagir Elsheikh, Chairwoman and CEO of Hagir Network, Founder & CEO of Tomorrow’s Smile Inc., Kareem’s Mission Org. HSE Staffing Agency LLC, KMission TV LLC. She is an Advocate, Activist, Motivational Speaker, political analyst, Talk show host, Producer, Author, poet, and philanthropist.
Hagir Elsheikh is an advocate, leader, and survivor whose life’s work embodies resilience, justice, and dedication to peace-building and human rights. Her journey from a survivor of torture, gender-based violence, harassment, female genital mutilation (FGM), and domestic violence to a global human rights champion is a testament to her spirit and lifelong commitment to making the world a better place.
Early Life and Political Activism
Born in Sudan, Hagir's early years were marked by her vocal opposition to the oppressive regime of Al-Bashir. From the age of 11, she used her voice to protest against tyranny and advocate for democratic reforms. As one of the few female spokespersons for the Sudanese Democratic Front, her courageous activism led to her arrest, torture, and eventual asylum in the United States. These experiences only strengthened her resolve to fight for justice and human dignity.
Advocacy for Human Rights and Women's Rights
Hagir Elsheikh’s advocacy is deeply personal and wide-reaching. As a survivor of torture, Gender-Based violence, domestic violence, harassment, and FGM, she channels her experiences into powerful campaigns against gender-based violence, human trafficking, and the exploitation of minors. Her efforts include raising awareness, advocating for legislative changes, and providing support to victims through counseling and empowerment programs.
Hagir’s commitment to combating FGM is particularly noteworthy. She has tirelessly worked to raise awareness and implement preventive measures to stop this crime, drawing from her own painful experiences to drive change. Her advocacy extends to supporting survivors and promoting gender equality, demonstrating her commitment to protecting vulnerable populations.
Peace Building and Democratic Empowerment
Hagir’s work in peacebuilding and democratic empowerment is globally recognized. She collaborates with organizations such as the United Nations, UNDP, TASSC, CWS, Amnesty International, Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC), the civic club, World Affair Council of Harrisburg, and several colleges and organizations such as Grand Canyon University, Johns Hopkins University, and the University of Pennsylvania to promote dialogue and initiatives that foster peace and democratic governance. Her efforts have been instrumental in promoting peace in conflict-affected regions, especially in Sudan.
In the United States, Hagir is an active member of Sudan's working advocacy group for Congress and the State Department, providing crucial advice, briefings, and support for humanitarian causes. She serves on the boards of Trustees of several humanitarian organizations, including the organization that she founded, Tomorrow’s Smile Inc. (TSI), TASSC, Church World Services (CWS), and the World Affairs Council of Harrisburg. Her work with CWS, in particular, involves using her experiences as a refugee and immigrant to raise awareness about the challenges refugees face and to assist in providing them with training and cultural orientation when they settle in Pennsylvania. She is also a member of the board of trustees at Harrisburg Area Community College (HACC), Kareem’s Mission organization.
Work with Autism Spectrum Disorder
As a mother of a child with autism, Hagir has a personal and profound commitment to supporting individuals with autism and their families. She founded Kareem’s Mission Org. and KMission TV LLC to provide resources, support, and education to families affected by autism. These organizations provide a range of services, including educational videos, support groups, and community events, designed to raise awareness and promote an inclusive environment for individuals with autism.
Through Kareem’s Mission and KMission TV LLC, Hagir Elsheikh continues to advocate for a more inclusive and supportive society for individuals with autism. Her efforts have had a profound impact, providing hope, support, and empowerment to countless families. Hagir’s dedication and passion make her a true champion for the autism community, inspiring others to join her in creating a better world for all.
Recognitions and Awards
Dr. Hagir Elsheikh’s unwavering commitment to human rights, healthcare equity, and community empowerment has earned her numerous prestigious accolades and public honors over the years:
2025 GlobeSt. Woman of Influence – Humanitarian Category
Doctor of Humane Letters, Honorary Doctorate, Central Penn College (2025)
Senatorial Citation, presented by Senator Patty Kim and the Pennsylvania Senate (June 2025)
2024 Carolyne L. Smith Legacy Award, YWCA Tribute to Women of Excellence
2024 Harambee Award, Life Esteem, as the overall Nguzo Saba honoree for embodying the seven principles of Kwanzaa
2023 Women’s History Garden Honoree, WACOH and the Civic Club of Harrisburg
2023 ALC Black Excellence Community Service Award
2022 Black History Month Honoree, recognized by PennLive and The Patriot-News
2021 Top Nominee, Best Place to Work, HSE Staffing Agency
2020 Cover Feature, Business Women’s Magazine, with a biographical feature story
2019 HACC Distinguished Alumni Award
2019 Simply the Best People Award – Community Activist, Central PA
2019 Inductee, GCU College of Nursing Hall of Fame
2018 Year of the Woman Honoree, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
2017 & 2018 Readers’ Choice – Simply the Best Staffing Agency, HSE Staffing Agency
2017 Health Care Hero Award
2017 Woman of Influence, Central Penn Business Journal
In addition to her awards, Dr. Elsheikh has been widely featured in national and international media, across magazines, newspapers, documentaries, and television, and is the author of the acclaimed memoir Through Tragedy and Triumph: A Life Well Traveled, available on Amazon, and Dreamer In Chain: Poem of Exile and Resilience
Mentorship and Media Presence
Hagir Elsheikh’s influence extends to the next generation through her mentorship of middle school, high school, and college students. She shapes the minds of future leaders, instilling in them the values of justice, equality, and active civic engagement.
As the chairwoman of the Hagir Network and the host of "The Hagir Show" Hagir fosters impactful conversations that inspire change and encourage collective action. Her memoir, "Through Tragedy and Triumph: A Life Well Traveled," offers an intimate look at her journey, serving as both a powerful narrative of resilience and a call to action for justice and human rights.
Community Involvement and Global Impact
Hagir’s involvement in community service has garnered her multiple honors, including recognition by the state of Pennsylvania in 2018, induction into the GCU Hall of Fame, and the "Simply the Best Community Activist" award in Central PA in 2019. She has also been honored for Black History Month in 2022 and received the ALC Black Excellence Community Service Award in 2023.
Hagir’s advocacy extends beyond the United States to fight for peace in Sudan and other parts of the world facing injustices, wars, and humanitarian crises. Her work with TASSC in Washington, D.C., and other organizations highlights her dedication to supporting survivors of torture and promoting human rights on a global scale.
Hagir Elsheikh’s life and work are a powerful testament to the impact one individual can have in the fight for justice, peace, and human dignity. Her contributions to political discourse, human rights, women's rights, and peacebuilding have left an indelible mark on the world. Through her dedication and tireless advocacy, Hagir continues to inspire others and drive meaningful change, making the world a better, more just place for all.
Expertise and Impact
With rich experiences as a keynote speaker, author, serial entrepreneur, and philanthropist, Hagir embodies the relentless pursuit of human rights and women's rights activism. Her areas of expertise include:
-Immigration and Refugees:
-Immigration Advocacy
-Domestic Violence / Violence Prevention
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
- Women’s Rights/Human Rights
- Women’s Health
- Cultural Sensitivity
- Autism Awareness
- Gender-Based Violence
- Women in Business
- Bullying & Suicide Prevention
- Training
Hagir’s advocacy extends beyond speeches to direct action, training, and support for survivors, law enforcement, government officials, and the community at large. Her leadership at Hagir Network, HSE Staffing Agency, and KMission TV, as well as her foundational work with Tomorrow’s Smile, Inc., and Kareem’s Mission, has cemented her role as a catalyst for global change.
Media Appearances
Hagir’s media appearances on networks such as AlhurraTV, VOA, BBC, France 24, MBN, Alarabia, Alaraby, CBS, TRT, ART, ABC, and WITF highlight her status as a sought-after commentator on Sudan’s affairs, US politics, elections, and foreign policy, with a special focus on the Middle East and North Africa. These appearances amplify her influence, enabling her to make significant contributions to the global conversation on democracy and human rights.
Speaking Engagements
Motivation fuels the Hagir Network. Drawing inspiration from her journey, overcoming domestic violence to owning her business and triumphing over early-life challenges, Hagir skillfully connects with her audience, delivering a powerful message that inspires action.
Hagir has significantly impacted political dialogue through speaking engagements at universities, colleges, and organizations. Her platform, The Hagir Show, extends her reach in discussing global and social issues, playing a pivotal role in educating and inspiring a broad audience. The “Know Your Candidates” segment has become a cornerstone for political engagement, especially for Democratic candidates in Pennsylvania.
Collaborations
Hagir has collaborated with numerous organizations, including:
- United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
- Grand Canyon University (GCU)
- Johns Hopkins University
- University of Pennsylvania (UPenn)
- Dickinson College
- Harrisburg Area Community College (HACC)
- Central Penn College
- Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC)
- Hamilton Health Center
- Rotary Club of Harrisburg & York
- Leadership Harrisburg Area
- WITF-Smart Talk
- Trinity High School
- Cumberland Valley High School
- PennLive/Patriot News
- The Burg News
- ABC-Good Day PA
- Harrisburg Magazine
- Central Penn Business Journal
- The Civic Club of Harrisburg
- World Affairs Council of Harrisburg
Literary Contributions
A published author, Hagir shares her life's journey in her memoir, Through Tragedy and Triumph: A Life Well Traveled, and her poetry book, Dreamer In Chains, both of which are available on Amazon.
Hagir Elsheikh is an advocate, leader, and survivor whose life’s work embodies resilience, justice, and dedication to peace-building and human rights. Her journey from a survivor of torture, gender-based violence, harassment, female genital mutilation (FGM), and domestic violence to a global human rights champion is a testament to her spirit and lifelong commitment to making the world a better place.
Early Life and Political Activism
Born in Sudan, Hagir's early years were marked by her vocal opposition to the oppressive regime of Al-Bashir. From the age of 11, she used her voice to protest against tyranny and advocate for democratic reforms. As one of the few female spokespersons for the Sudanese Democratic Front, her courageous activism led to her arrest, torture, and eventual asylum in the United States. These experiences only strengthened her resolve to fight for justice and human dignity.
Advocacy for Human Rights and Women's Rights
Hagir Elsheikh’s advocacy is deeply personal and wide-reaching. As a survivor of torture, Gender-Based violence, domestic violence, harassment, and FGM, she channels her experiences into powerful campaigns against gender-based violence, human trafficking, and the exploitation of minors. Her efforts include raising awareness, advocating for legislative changes, and providing support to victims through counseling and empowerment programs.
Hagir’s commitment to combating FGM is particularly noteworthy. She has tirelessly worked to raise awareness and implement preventive measures to stop this crime, drawing from her own painful experiences to drive change. Her advocacy extends to supporting survivors and promoting gender equality, demonstrating her commitment to protecting vulnerable populations.
Peace Building and Democratic Empowerment
Hagir’s work in peacebuilding and democratic empowerment is globally recognized. She collaborates with organizations such as the United Nations, UNDP, TASSC, CWS, Amnesty International, Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC), the civic club, World Affair Council of Harrisburg, and several colleges and organizations such as Grand Canyon University, Johns Hopkins University, and the University of Pennsylvania to promote dialogue and initiatives that foster peace and democratic governance. Her efforts have been instrumental in promoting peace in conflict-affected regions, especially in Sudan.
In the United States, Hagir is an active member of Sudan's working advocacy group for Congress and the State Department, providing crucial advice, briefings, and support for humanitarian causes. She serves on the boards of Trustees of several humanitarian organizations, including the organization that she founded, Tomorrow’s Smile Inc. (TSI), TASSC, Church World Services (CWS), and the World Affairs Council of Harrisburg. Her work with CWS, in particular, involves using her experiences as a refugee and immigrant to raise awareness about the challenges refugees face and to assist in providing them with training and cultural orientation when they settle in Pennsylvania. She is also a member of the board of trustees at Harrisburg Area Community College (HACC), Kareem’s Mission organization.
Work with Autism Spectrum Disorder
As a mother of a child with autism, Hagir has a personal and profound commitment to supporting individuals with autism and their families. She founded Kareem’s Mission Org. and KMission TV LLC to provide resources, support, and education to families affected by autism. These organizations provide a range of services, including educational videos, support groups, and community events, designed to raise awareness and promote an inclusive environment for individuals with autism.
Through Kareem’s Mission and KMission TV LLC, Hagir Elsheikh continues to advocate for a more inclusive and supportive society for individuals with autism. Her efforts have had a profound impact, providing hope, support, and empowerment to countless families. Hagir’s dedication and passion make her a true champion for the autism community, inspiring others to join her in creating a better world for all.
Recognitions and Awards
Dr. Hagir Elsheikh’s unwavering commitment to human rights, healthcare equity, and community empowerment has earned her numerous prestigious accolades and public honors over the years:
2025 GlobeSt. Woman of Influence – Humanitarian Category
Doctor of Humane Letters, Honorary Doctorate, Central Penn College (2025)
Senatorial Citation, presented by Senator Patty Kim and the Pennsylvania Senate (June 2025)
2024 Carolyne L. Smith Legacy Award, YWCA Tribute to Women of Excellence
2024 Harambee Award, Life Esteem, as the overall Nguzo Saba honoree for embodying the seven principles of Kwanzaa
2023 Women’s History Garden Honoree, WACOH and the Civic Club of Harrisburg
2023 ALC Black Excellence Community Service Award
2022 Black History Month Honoree, recognized by PennLive and The Patriot-News
2021 Top Nominee, Best Place to Work, HSE Staffing Agency
2020 Cover Feature, Business Women’s Magazine, with a biographical feature story
2019 HACC Distinguished Alumni Award
2019 Simply the Best People Award – Community Activist, Central PA
2019 Inductee, GCU College of Nursing Hall of Fame
2018 Year of the Woman Honoree, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
2017 & 2018 Readers’ Choice – Simply the Best Staffing Agency, HSE Staffing Agency
2017 Health Care Hero Award
2017 Woman of Influence, Central Penn Business Journal
In addition to her awards, Dr. Elsheikh has been widely featured in national and international media, across magazines, newspapers, documentaries, and television, and is the author of the acclaimed memoir Through Tragedy and Triumph: A Life Well Traveled, available on Amazon, and Dreamer In Chain: Poem of Exile and Resilience
Mentorship and Media Presence
Hagir Elsheikh’s influence extends to the next generation through her mentorship of middle school, high school, and college students. She shapes the minds of future leaders, instilling in them the values of justice, equality, and active civic engagement.
As the chairwoman of the Hagir Network and the host of "The Hagir Show" Hagir fosters impactful conversations that inspire change and encourage collective action. Her memoir, "Through Tragedy and Triumph: A Life Well Traveled," offers an intimate look at her journey, serving as both a powerful narrative of resilience and a call to action for justice and human rights.
Community Involvement and Global Impact
Hagir’s involvement in community service has garnered her multiple honors, including recognition by the state of Pennsylvania in 2018, induction into the GCU Hall of Fame, and the "Simply the Best Community Activist" award in Central PA in 2019. She has also been honored for Black History Month in 2022 and received the ALC Black Excellence Community Service Award in 2023.
Hagir’s advocacy extends beyond the United States to fight for peace in Sudan and other parts of the world facing injustices, wars, and humanitarian crises. Her work with TASSC in Washington, D.C., and other organizations highlights her dedication to supporting survivors of torture and promoting human rights on a global scale.
Hagir Elsheikh’s life and work are a powerful testament to the impact one individual can have in the fight for justice, peace, and human dignity. Her contributions to political discourse, human rights, women's rights, and peacebuilding have left an indelible mark on the world. Through her dedication and tireless advocacy, Hagir continues to inspire others and drive meaningful change, making the world a better, more just place for all.
Expertise and Impact
With rich experiences as a keynote speaker, author, serial entrepreneur, and philanthropist, Hagir embodies the relentless pursuit of human rights and women's rights activism. Her areas of expertise include:
-Immigration and Refugees:
-Immigration Advocacy
-Domestic Violence / Violence Prevention
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
- Women’s Rights/Human Rights
- Women’s Health
- Cultural Sensitivity
- Autism Awareness
- Gender-Based Violence
- Women in Business
- Bullying & Suicide Prevention
- Training
Hagir’s advocacy extends beyond speeches to direct action, training, and support for survivors, law enforcement, government officials, and the community at large. Her leadership at Hagir Network, HSE Staffing Agency, and KMission TV, as well as her foundational work with Tomorrow’s Smile, Inc., and Kareem’s Mission, has cemented her role as a catalyst for global change.
Media Appearances
Hagir’s media appearances on networks such as AlhurraTV, VOA, BBC, France 24, MBN, Alarabia, Alaraby, CBS, TRT, ART, ABC, and WITF highlight her status as a sought-after commentator on Sudan’s affairs, US politics, elections, and foreign policy, with a special focus on the Middle East and North Africa. These appearances amplify her influence, enabling her to make significant contributions to the global conversation on democracy and human rights.
Speaking Engagements
Motivation fuels the Hagir Network. Drawing inspiration from her journey, overcoming domestic violence to owning her business and triumphing over early-life challenges, Hagir skillfully connects with her audience, delivering a powerful message that inspires action.
Hagir has significantly impacted political dialogue through speaking engagements at universities, colleges, and organizations. Her platform, The Hagir Show, extends her reach in discussing global and social issues, playing a pivotal role in educating and inspiring a broad audience. The “Know Your Candidates” segment has become a cornerstone for political engagement, especially for Democratic candidates in Pennsylvania.
Collaborations
Hagir has collaborated with numerous organizations, including:
- United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
- Grand Canyon University (GCU)
- Johns Hopkins University
- University of Pennsylvania (UPenn)
- Dickinson College
- Harrisburg Area Community College (HACC)
- Central Penn College
- Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC)
- Hamilton Health Center
- Rotary Club of Harrisburg & York
- Leadership Harrisburg Area
- WITF-Smart Talk
- Trinity High School
- Cumberland Valley High School
- PennLive/Patriot News
- The Burg News
- ABC-Good Day PA
- Harrisburg Magazine
- Central Penn Business Journal
- The Civic Club of Harrisburg
- World Affairs Council of Harrisburg
Literary Contributions
A published author, Hagir shares her life's journey in her memoir, Through Tragedy and Triumph: A Life Well Traveled, and her poetry book, Dreamer In Chains, both of which are available on Amazon.
Speaking At
