Maya Hammoud

Maya Hammoud is a social entrepreneur, neuroscience researcher, and co-founder and CEO of the Perception Foundation, recognized as the world's largest youth-led nonprofit focused on mental health and neurodiversity. Hammoud's early experiences with a childhood friend with autism inspired her commitment to building inclusive environments for neurodiverse individuals. Alongside her twin sister, Lara Hammoud, she co-founded the Perception Foundation at age 7.

The organization began as a single sensory room and has expanded to operate in more than 71 countries, with over 265 branches and outreach to more than 694,000 people. The Hammoud sisters developed methods to create sensory spaces at a fraction of typical costs, making them accessible to underserved communities. The Perception Foundation develops low-cost, high-impact sensory spaces, conducts educational workshops, hosts sensory-friendly community events, and advocates for inclusive policy.

In addition to her leadership in nonprofit work, Hammoud is active in neuroscience research. She and her sister earned first place in Cellular and Molecular Biology at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair for their research, "Decoding AXSL3: A Novel Biomarker for Neurodevelopmental Disorders." Their research explores the origins and treatment of neurodevelopmental disorders, earning recognition among the top five projects globally at Regeneron ISEF and a third place Grand Award. The twins have published research on neurodevelopmental biomarkers, therapies to restore lost neurons, and brain-based curricula for learning, with more than eight scientific publications.

Hammoud and her sister have received international recognition, including being named among the top nine youth changemakers worldwide by Pace e Bene Society, the U.S. Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, and back-to-back Grand Awards at the International Science and Engineering Fair. They have also been honored as Daily Point of Light Award recipients.

Hammoud and Lara have served as United Nations delegates and keynote speakers at venues such as the United Nations General Assembly, Aspen Ideas Festival, and Wall Street Green Summit. At age 18, Hammoud addressed the General Assembly during the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, focusing on structural barriers and cultural expectations in leadership. She has also participated in panels at the Aspen Health Institute, discussing research and social support in neuroscience and mental health advocacy.

Hammoud's work continues to influence neurodiversity, mental health advocacy, and youth-led social change on a global scale.