We are honored to recognize Toufic and Janine Wakim, dedicated advocates for youth, education, and community, as the recipient of the 2026 Person of Courage Award.

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Toufic Wakim grew up during a civil war in Lebanon and became a first-generation college graduate before emigrating to the US at 24 with no social or professional network. Starting as a civil engineer, he transitioned into tech 28 years ago and built a career climbing the corporate ladder in an industry that was far less accessible then than it is today. His journey from displacement and uncertainty to established success in one of the most competitive fields reflects the core belief that drives Brave Enough to Fail: that adversity and failure are not obstacles to success, but often the path to it.

As the proud daughter of immigrant parents who came to the United States with nothing but their education, Janine Wakim was a witness to the sacrifice made by her parents to secure a promising future for herself and her sisters.  Knowing that education would be her greatest asset, she fought for admittance at top universities and earned a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Public Health from Columbia University.

Throughout her career, Janine played pivotal leadership roles in each company she was a part of, ensuring that her team members were uplifted and grew in their careers.  And like her parents, she devoted time to her community: being a Big Sister in the Big Brothers Big Sister Organization, teaching English as a Second Language through Domus in Stamford, and volunteering at Greenwich Hospital. Janine ensured that her parents’ sacrifice was not in vain and her efforts paved the way for future generations to succeed, embodying the mission of Brave Enough to Fail.