Miami, FL / Cairo, Egypt - April 15, 2026

Best Buddies International, the leading global nonprofit dedicated to ending the social, physical, and economic isolation of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), proudly announces the launch of Best Buddies Egypt. This expansion marks a major milestone in the organization’s continued global growth and brings Best Buddies one step closer to its goal of operating in 100 countries worldwide.

The launch of Best Buddies Egypt is made possible through a strategic partnership with LifeMakers Foundation, a respected Egyptian nonprofit organization with deep roots in community development and youth engagement across the country. Together, the organizations will work to foster inclusion and create meaningful opportunities for individuals with IDD through Best Buddies’ internationally recognized programs.

LifeMakers Foundation is one of Egypt’s leading nonprofit organizations, focused on youth empowerment, volunteerism, and sustainable community development. Through its extensive nationwide network and experience working with underserved communities, LifeMakers will play a key role in helping scale Best Buddies programs throughout Egypt and expanding opportunities for individuals with IDD across both urban and rural communities.

Building Inclusive Communities Through Friendship

The initial phase of the partnership will focus on implementing the Best Buddies Friendship Program, which pairs individuals with and without IDD in one-to-one friendships that promote connection, confidence, and mutual understanding. The program aims to reduce social isolation while creating more inclusive school and community environments. Over time, Best Buddies Egypt plans to expand programming nationwide, with the long-term goal of introducing leadership development, advocacy, and employment initiatives.

“At Best Buddies, we believe friendship is the foundation of inclusion,” said Anthony Shriver, Founder of Best Buddies International. “Launching in Egypt is an exciting and meaningful step forward for our global movement. Through our partnership with LifeMakers, we are building a powerful platform for connection, dignity, and opportunity - and moving closer to a world where people of all abilities are valued and included everywhere.”

“We are proud of our partnership with Best Buddies International and the launch of its programs in Egypt, a step that reflects our deep belief in every individual’s right to inclusion, acceptance, and equal opportunity,” said Ahmed Moussa, CEO of LifeMakers Foundation. “At LifeMakers, we believe that building an inclusive society begins by creating real spaces for friendship and empowerment. This partnership is an extension of our commitment to empowering youth, supporting underserved communities, and working together to build a society where differences are seen as a source of strength, not a barrier.”

Best Buddies International continues to expand its presence around the world to foster inclusion, friendship, and opportunity for people with IDD. The launch of Best Buddies Egypt reflects the organization’s ongoing commitment to building a more inclusive global community and advancing opportunities for individuals of all abilities throughout the region.

For more information about Best Buddies International and its global programs, please visit www.bestbuddies.org.