Omar holds a PhD in musicology at the University of York (United Kingdom) and is the is founder-director of Opera Schmopera dedicated to the creation of operas for youngsters. sought-after internationally as a composer, director, choral director and workshop leader. Omar considers himself a peace-maker who applies his skills and passion to his mission of creating social harmony and empowering individuals. A passionate champion for fostering youth and diversity, he was the first artist to be interviewed for Opera Up Close's Artists who inspire us series. Omar is a board member of Tête à tête Opera Company and a steering committee member of the European Network of Opera, Music and Dance Education (RESEO). In 2015 Omar was awarded AHRC Competition funding to read a PhD in the Composition of Opera for Young People at the University of York.