Prof. Dr. Ibrahim Abouleish (1937 – 2017) was a visionary and social entrepreneur. As part of his vision, Prof. Abouleish established Heliopolis University for Sustainable Development in 2009; the first university in the Middle East declaring sustainable development as its main guiding principle. The university builds on the efforts and achievements of SEKEM, a holistic initiative for sustainable development. Dr. Abouleish was multiple awarded for his achievements with the Right Livelihood Award, better known as “Alternative Nobel Prize” in 2003, the Business for Peace Award, UNCCDs Land for Life Award, and many others.