Maha Bali

Maha Bali is a Professor of Practice at the Center for Learning and Teaching, The American University in Cairo (AUC), internationally recognized for pioneering work in open education practices and socially just learning ecosystems. She co-founded the grassroots movement Virtually Connecting, which challenges academic gatekeeping at conferences, and the Equity Unbound curriculum for equity-focused intercultural learning.

Her research centers on compassionate learning design and intentionally equitable hospitality in educational spaces, particularly examining how generative AI impacts pedagogies of care. She develops frameworks for building community while navigating systemic barriers, emphasizing multidimensional equity and learner empowerment through initiatives like Continuity with Care and Socially Just Academia.

Bali approaches mentoring as joyful relationship-building rather than obligation, stating: 'I do it with joy because I’m building relationships with people.' She co-created MYFest, a three-month professional learning journey, and develops community resources with OneHE. Her keynote 'Ecosystems that Nurture Socially Just Care in Learning Spaces in the Age of Generative AI' exemplifies her focus on integrating care ethics with emerging technologies in faculty development.