Francesco Bakhos is the Head of Programs and Ecosystem at SmartESA, ESA Business School, where he leads entrepreneurship, innovation, and ecosystem development initiatives supporting startups, young entrepreneurs, and emerging leaders in Lebanon and beyond. A Fulbright Alum with a Master’s degree in Innovation and Entrepreneurship from Montana State University, Francesco has designed, managed, and delivered entrepreneurship programs, bootcamps, acceleration initiatives, capacity-building programs, and international delegations. Through SmartESA, he has worked closely with more than 100 entrepreneurs and startups, helping founders strengthen their business models, communication, pitching, and growth strategies while connecting them with investors, experts, institutions, and market opportunities. Beyond SmartESA, Francesco is the Founder and Host of Voices Beyond Borders, a youth-led media and storytelling platform that has generated more than 2.3 million views, amplifying conversations around entrepreneurship, leadership, education, innovation, and social impact. He is also actively engaged in youth leadership and ecosystem-building initiatives locally and internationally. His work sits at the intersection of entrepreneurship, innovation, and youth empowerment, with a strong focus on helping people turn ideas into compelling stories, opportunities, and impact.