Hello

Background

Hi, my name is Dan. Formally Daniel, but often called Habashi.

I was born in Montreal to Egyptian-immigrant parents. Despite what many think, the name is not Japanese, although I love Japan.

My wife’s name is Andrea and we have two boys.  I have a sister named Dora and yes, we have gone as Dora & Diego for Halloween.

I have lived in the Middle East, United Kingdom, America and proudly call Canada home.

Experience

My career has been built at the intersection of community, culture, and technology. I’m endlessly curious about how these forces shape each other - and how they can expand opportunity, enable creativity, and help ideas reach people at scale.

I’m a builder at heart and energized by meaningful challenges. I’ve been fortunate to do that across Substack, SSENSE, TikTok, Soho House & Co., Instagram, Facebook, MSN, I Met The Walrus, and Microsoft.

Context

Music was my first passion. I always source new (and old) music and listening to music is part of my daily routine. All genres, languages and time periods are welcomed. Here are a some songs that will give you a sense of what I listen to.

I have a deep appreciation for great design - in architecture, art, fashion, and both physical and digital products. I’ve travelled the world to experience objects, exhibits, and moments that reveal how culture shapes creativity.

This connects naturally to another passion of mine: travel. Whether it’s a dense city, a remote landscape, or something in between, I love to explore.

Here are a few of my favourites.

Snowboarding is my escape. It embodies freedom, creativity, presence, and focus. I’ve travelled the world in search of the perfect turn and the quiet serenity of the mountains. It brings me equal parts joy, challenge, and adventure - and it’s a passion my wife and I share deeply. Fun fact: I proposed to her on a backcountry trip in British Columbia.

Thank you for spending the time to get to know a little bit about me. I’m looking forward to getting to know you.