Thomas A. Abraham, a visionary Lebanese American entrepreneur and philanthropist, is the driving force behind the International Blinders Network. With a lifelong commitment to sports, the arts, and philanthropy, Thomas’s passion for advocating for a fair and inclusive world forms the foundation of our mission. His pioneering efforts in promoting adaptive sports and his extensive philanthropic work continue to shape the impactful work we do every day.
Born in Beirut, Lebanon, in 1952, Thomas was adopted at age four by Genevieve and Anthony R. Abraham, who were esteemed for their entrepreneurial and philanthropic legacy. After completing his studies at the University of Miami and the University of Denver, Thomas embarked on a career spanning business and philanthropy, driven by his desire to make a meaningful difference in the world. He currently leads the Anthony R. Abraham Foundation as Chairman—a foundation established by his parents in 1976—and serves as president and partner in several family enterprises.
Thomas’s commitment to combining the arts, sports, and charitable initiatives led him to establish the StarArt Foundation in Miami in 1992. This nonprofit merges the creativity of international artists, athletes, and entertainers with corporate sponsorship to support projects benefiting various charities, blending the worlds of sports, music, and art for a greater cause.
In 2020, following the tragic Beirut explosion on August 4, Thomas launched the Help Us Rise relief initiative to provide critical support to those affected. By directing funds to local projects and NGOs, this initiative continues to assist Lebanese communities through multiple crises.
In September 2023, in a historic move, the U.S. Association of Blind Athletes, the National Governing Body for Paralympic blind soccer, and the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Foundation appointed Thomas as the first-ever Sport Ambassador for Blind Soccer. This role highlights his dedication to advocating for adaptive athletes on both national and international stages.
In 2024, he founded two transformative organizations: The International Blinders Network, a pioneering organization dedicated to enhancing opportunities for individuals with disabilities across all aspects of life, and A Club, a global community promoting athletic excellence and impactful philanthropy through sports.
In addition to these initiatives, Thomas actively contributes to various charitable organizations, serving on the boards of Camillus Health and House Concern, City Year, the Rene Moawad Foundation, and the American Task Force for Lebanon. He is also a trustee for the Beirut Marathon Association and the Lebanese American University and an Emeritus Board Member of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Thomas A. Abraham’s lifelong commitment to positive change embodies his personal mission and establishes a legacy of lasting impact. The International Blinders Network stands as a testament to his vision of a more inclusive world for all.
