Categories
Friends

“A Journey of Gratitude and Impact”


In September 2012, I had the opportunity to apply for the position of Grant & Subcontract Officer for the SIKA-West project, an influential initiative funded by the United States Agency for International Development and administered by AECOM. Following a successful interview, I was delighted to accept the position on October 02, 2012, marking the beginning of my journey with the project.

Several months later, I had the privilege of meeting Kara Dixon, who joined the program as the Grant & Compliance Manager. Kara’s profound impact on my professional growth became evident as she not only demonstrated expertise in her role but also exhibited qualities of kindness, dedication, and support. Her openness to share knowledge and her unwavering enthusiasm for the program’s success were truly inspiring. Kara’s mentorship led me to embrace programmatic excellence, emphasizing adherence to USAID regulations and fostering virtues of kindness and empathy within my professional approach.

In my role as the Grant & Subcontract Officer, I assumed responsibility for overseeing and managing the comprehensive output of the logical framework in Herat. With a steadfast commitment, I ensured the effective execution of over USD $5,000,000 in grant funding across the program’s target districts. Handling 180 grants and training awards, I consistently upheld the highest standards of quality and compliance.

Over the course of three years working closely with Kara, she made the difficult decision to return to the United States. Her departure marked a significant loss, as she had been an indispensable manager providing unwavering support to me and my colleagues.

While her absence from the program was felt deeply, the profound influence of Kara’s mentorship remains, reminding me of the transformative power of a compassionate leader. Her unwavering support and encouragement have left an indelible mark on my life, instilling in me the values of dedication, inclusivity, and genuine care for others.

Fast forward to June 2021, when Afghanistan faced a dramatic shift in its security situation, I found myself compelled to seek refuge in the United States. During these challenging times, I reached out to Kara, requesting her assistance in securing a Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) through a recommendation letter. To my immense relief and joy, Kara responded promptly, expressing her understanding of the risks involved, having experienced the situation herself during her time in Afghanistan. Her commitment to my well-being was evident as she assured me that she had already initiated the recommendation letter, providing a much-needed sense of hope and comfort during the uncertainty.

Kara’s unwavering support did not waver even after Afghanistan’s fall. Her glowing recommendation letter opened doors for me to embark on a new chapter in the United States. Beyond the professional realm, Kara’s mentorship and support have played an invaluable role in my personal growth. I am filled with deep gratitude and determination to pay forward the compassion and guidance she extended to me.

When reunited in Washington DC in March 2023, Kara’s gracious invitation to lunch offered an opportunity to reconnect, reigniting memories of her influential mentorship. As our conversation unfolded, I was reminded of her lasting impact on my life and career. Kara’s dedication to humanitarian causes, commitment to excellence, and her passion for making a positive impact on the community continue to serve as a beacon of inspiration for me.

With Kara’s lessons imprinted in my journey, I am committed to carrying forward her legacy of kindness, empathy, and dedication to excellence. As I embark on this new chapter in the United States, I strive to create positive change and contribute to the greater good, just as Kara has done for me.

As I embrace the opportunities that lie ahead, I do so with gratitude for the impact Kara Dixon has had on my life’s trajectory. Her mentorship has been an invaluable gift, and I will forever cherish the memories and lessons learned under her guidance. With a renewed sense of purpose, I am eager to make a positive impact in the world, fueled by the support and inspiration she has provided me along my journey.

Categories
Friends

“Father’s Guiding Light”

My father’s unwavering dedication to nurturing my potential and molding me into a confident individual has been the bedrock of my self-assurance and achievements. He taught me the value of perseverance and the importance of staying true to my principles, no matter how challenging the circumstances may be.

As a beacon of knowledge and wisdom, my father ignited a thirst for learning within me that remains unquenchable. His passion for intellectual pursuits inspired me to explore various fields of knowledge, unlocking doors to a world of ideas and endless possibilities. His library became my sanctuary, and through the pages of countless books, I found solace, inspiration, and the courage to dream big.

During moments of doubt or tribulation, my father’s calming presence has been a balm to my soul. His unwavering belief in my abilities has fortified my confidence and encouraged me to persevere in the face of adversity. Like a sheltering tree, he provided shade during life’s scorching summers, shielding me from life’s harshness and showing me the value of compassion and empathy towards others.

My father’s commitment to service has left an indelible mark on my heart. He taught me that true leadership is not about authority or control but about selfless service to others. His benevolence has extended beyond our family, touching the lives of those less fortunate in our community, and sparking a ripple effect of kindness and goodwill that continues to spread.

In family discussions, his approach has always been one of respect and inclusion, fostering an environment where every voice is heard and valued. This has not only strengthened our family bonds but also instilled in me the belief that unity and cooperation are essential for creating a harmonious and thriving society.

As I embark on my life’s journey, I carry the torch of my father’s legacy, striving to be a positive force in the lives of others, just as he has been for me. His profound teachings have molded my character, and I endeavor to be a source of inspiration and guidance for those around me.

I stand in awe of the profound impact my father’s love and leadership have had on my life. His unwavering support has kindled a flame within me, motivating me to reach for the stars and make a positive difference in the world. My gratitude knows no bounds, for I am forever indebted to the remarkable leader, mentor, and father who has shaped me into the person I am today.

As I carry his legacy forward, I do so with profound humility, embracing the responsibility of being a torchbearer for the values he instilled in me. My heart overflows with gratitude for the gift of such an extraordinary father—a guiding star whose light will forever guide me through life’s joys and challenges. In his love and wisdom, I find the strength to face each day with courage, compassion, and the determination to make a lasting impact on the world.

I am profoundly influenced by the enduring love and guidance of my father, who has been the cornerstone and unwavering companion of my life’s journey. His words and gestures have adorned my life with moments of unparalleled beauty and elegance. Throughout his existence, he has been the sole figure whose affectionate embrace has remained open to me, embellishing my world with a touch of enchantment and rendering it even more resplendent.

It is with great pride that I declare myself the offspring of such a remarkable individual, a figure akin to an angel in his selfless devotion and unwavering support. His affectionate kisses carry the fragrance of flowers, symbolizing the essence of his love, pure and untainted. Recently, I have come to realize the profound challenge of being distanced from one’s parents, and no matter the mastery of one’s literary prowess, expressing the greatness and grandeur of a father remains an insurmountable task.

When I write about my father, an overwhelming sense of joy envelopes me, as I recall the immense dedication, he invested in carving a better life for us, working tirelessly to secure our welfare. He unreservedly sacrificed his youth for my personal growth, accompanying me through the trials of adolescence and into old age. His entire life has been a testament to service, devoted to the well-being of his people and community, ardently contributing to the progress of his homeland and its inhabitants.

Throughout his personal and professional endeavors, my father confronted and triumphed over numerous challenges, exhibiting unwavering determination while living a fulfilling and humble existence. Even in the face of adversity, he displayed immense fortitude, embracing his own sorrows and tribulations with unwavering resolve, remaining steadfast in his commitment to serving others.

Though life presented its share of hardships, his stature never faltered, resolute and unwavering. The companionship of books has been his lifelong solace, offering wisdom and insight in times of introspection. On occasion, when nostalgia for his legacy overwhelms me, I envision him seeking solace amidst nature’s lush greenery, finding peace near the refreshing green well adjacent to the window of his world.

At other times, he immerses himself in the company of flowers and nightingales, gently voicing the unspoken sentiments that he holds dear to his heart, shouldering the burden of silent contemplation. One can discern the deepest pain he bears—the anguish of yearning for a humane society, a compassionate nation for his homeland, and its people. He grieves for the hardships endured by his compatriots, their struggle for sustenance becoming a poignant reminder of their unyielding spirit.

Their enduring aspiration is for Afghanistan to embrace peace and tranquility, akin to other nations. My father’s heart resonates with this yearning, encapsulating a fervent wish for prosperity, serenity, and the well-being of his beloved country, its people, and the land that has been etched deep within his soul.


Characteristics of my father:

  1. Profound Talent and Knowledge: My father possesses remarkable talent, skill, and knowledge in the art of writing. His exquisite handwriting bears resemblance to the beauty of Nastaliq script. His ability to articulate thoughts and ideas through the written word is a testament to his exceptional abilities as a wordsmith.
  2. Musically Inclined: In the past, my father displayed a profound interest in music and demonstrated his proficiency in playing the dutar, a traditional string instrument. Even now, he occasionally indulges in the melodies of the dutar, using the language of strings to express emotions, sometimes engaging in spirited musical performances.
  3. Love for Books and Music: My father’s love for books is boundless, and he cherishes the world of literature with utmost enthusiasm. Similarly, his passion for music knows no bounds, and he values the profound impact it has on human expression and emotions.
  4. Appreciation for Nature’s Beauty: My father’s refined taste and affection for flowers and their unique allure are evident. He has a deep understanding of the mysteries of creation and cherishes life’s transient nature. Consequently, he endeavors to derive pleasure and embrace life’s every moment, regardless of circumstances.
  5. Selflessness and Dedication: My father exemplifies true selflessness and unwavering dedication to the well-being of his fellow countrymen. Throughout his life, he has put the interests of others above his own, displaying a spirit of sacrifice and service that sets an inspiring example.
  6. Dignified and Resilient: Over the course of his life, my father has displayed a dignified and resolute demeanor. His unwavering strength and perseverance in the face of challenges and adversities reflect a deep sense of determination and inner fortitude, akin to that of a steadfast mountain.
  7. Compassion and Generosity: Like a blossoming flower, my father exudes compassion and generosity. Endowed with the patience of a mountain, he gracefully navigates the hardships of life, while embracing the well-being of all family members with utmost care.
  8. Love and Patience: My father’s heart is akin to a clear and transparent crystal, displaying immense love and patience in all circumstances. He faces life’s most trying moments with stoicism, never complaining or faltering in his commitment to support and uplift his loved ones.
  9. Nurturing Nature: He is always brimming with affection, patience, and resilience, tenderly nurturing his children and ensuring their protection from life’s challenges and harsh realities. His love knows no bounds, as he endeavors to shield his offspring from harm.
  10. An Abode of Love and Sacrifice: My father’s heart is an abode of boundless love, compassion, friendship, selflessness, and sacrifice. His life has been dedicated to the well-being and happiness of those around him, perpetually reflecting the concerns of society at large.
  11. Mentor and Guide: Throughout my journey of growth and development, my father has been my devoted mentor and guide. With his insightful teachings, he has liberated me from ignorance and instilled wisdom, illuminating the path towards a purposeful and fulfilling life.
  12. The Radiant Sun: Like a radiant sun, my father dispels the darkness of ignorance with the warmth of his love and affection. He imparts the riches of life through his profound presence, enriching my journey with wisdom and joy.

In conclusion, I am profoundly proud of my father, who fulfills his responsibilities with unwavering dedication and selflessness. His remarkable attributes as a mentor, a father, and a human being serve as an exemplary model for all. I pray for the longevity and well-being of my father and all fathers who tirelessly strive to guide their children towards a brighter and prosperous future.

Categories
Education

“Fundraising and Development Foundations”


I am honored to have successfully completed the “Fundraising and Development Foundations” program offered by the University of California, Davis. This comprehensive program has equipped me with invaluable knowledge and skills in the field of fundraising and development. Throughout the course, I gained a solid foundation and learned essential strategies necessary for excelling in fundraising roles within nonprofit organizations.

The program covered a wide range of topics, allowing me to develop expertise in various areas related to fundraising and development. I gained insights into donor cultivation and stewardship, learning effective strategies for building and maintaining relationships with donors while emphasizing donor loyalty. Prospect research techniques provided me with the tools to identify and analyze potential donors, enabling targeted fundraising efforts. I also honed my grant writing skills, acquiring the ability to craft compelling proposals and navigate the grant application process.

The program emphasized the planning, implementation, and evaluation of fundraising campaigns, providing strategies to set goals, engage donors, and measure campaign success. Additionally, I delved into major gifts and planned giving, understanding how to solicit and cultivate meaningful relationships with individual donors. I also gained insights into building partnerships with corporate sponsors and foundations, including proposal development and effective management of these partnerships.

The course covered the growing importance of online fundraising and digital strategies, equipping me with the knowledge to utilize various digital platforms, such as crowdfunding and social media campaigns, to maximize fundraising efforts. I learned the significance of data-driven fundraising, utilizing donor databases and analytics to make informed decisions and target specific donor segments.

Understanding the financial aspects of nonprofit organizations, including budgeting, financial reporting, and accountability, was also a crucial component of the program. This knowledge allows me to navigate the financial landscape of nonprofits and contribute to their financial sustainability.

Overall, the “Fundraising and Development Foundations” program at the University of California, Davis has provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and best practices in fundraising and development. I am confident that the skills and knowledge I have gained will enable me to make a meaningful impact in the nonprofit sector and contribute to the success of fundraising initiatives.

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Education

“International Leadership and Organizational Behavior”


I am excited to announce that on July 06, 2023, I successfully completed the International Leadership and Organizational Behavior online non-credit course authorized by Università Bocconi and offered through Coursera.

One of the most important subjects I learned in this course was the significance of having a global perspective in today’s interconnected world. I gained valuable insights into international leadership practices, cultural differences, and cross-cultural communication, which have equipped me with the necessary knowledge to excel in a globalized business environment.

Leadership is undoubtedly a critical skill for driving organizational success. However, studying this course has allowed me to further refine my leadership abilities, including strategic thinking, decision-making, team management, and conflict resolution. These skills are highly transferable and applicable in various professional contexts. Additionally, the course provided valuable insights into organizational behavior, which has helped me understand and gain deeper knowledge to create a positive work culture, improve team dynamics, and drive organizational effectiveness.

I now have a better understanding of adaptability in a changing world and the importance of continuous professional development. This course has been a unique opportunity for me to broaden my knowledge and enhance my professional profile.

I am grateful for the knowledge and skills I have acquired through this course, and I am excited to apply them to my future endeavors.

Categories
Books

“Think Again”

Three months ago, I had the opportunity to read the book “Think Again: Challenging Assumptions and Expanding Perspectives.” It was an insightful and thought-provoking literary work that profoundly impacted me. The book encouraged me to embrace challenges, question my assumptions, and open my mind to new perspectives. It ignited the power of critical thinking within me and allowed for intellectual growth and personal development.

One of the key aspects of the book was the provision of valuable tools and strategies for effective critical thinking. It taught me techniques to identify cognitive biases, evaluate evidence objectively, and engage in respectful and constructive dialogue. These skills enabled me to navigate challenging conversations, challenge long-held beliefs, and develop a more flexible and nuanced perspective.

In just a few pages, the book took me on a transformative journey of self-discovery, critical thinking, and intellectual exploration. It prompted me to challenge my assumptions, expand my perspectives, and unlock the potential of my own mind.

Among the many impactful themes in the book, five in particular resonated with me and have positively influenced my career and personal life:

  1. Embracing Growth Mindset: The book emphasized the importance of adopting a growth mindset, encouraging me to see challenges as opportunities for learning and growth. This mindset has propelled me forward in my career, enabling me to take on new challenges with confidence.
  2. Enhancing Critical Thinking: The book equipped me with valuable critical thinking skills, empowering me to analyze situations, evaluate information critically, and make informed decisions. These skills have been invaluable in my professional endeavors, allowing me to navigate complex problems and find innovative solutions.
  3. Building Resilience: The book emphasized the significance of resilience in overcoming obstacles. It taught me to embrace setbacks as learning experiences and develop the ability to bounce back stronger. This resilience has been instrumental in navigating the ups and downs of my personal and professional life.
  4. Effective Communication: The book stressed the importance of effective communication, teaching me to actively listen, express myself clearly, and engage in meaningful dialogue. These communication skills have enhanced my relationships, facilitated collaboration, and advanced my career.
  5. Embracing Change and Open-Mindedness: The book encouraged me to embrace change, be open to new ideas, and challenge my own beliefs. This openness has broadened my perspectives, fostered creativity, and allowed me to adapt in an ever-changing world.

Overall, “Think Again” has had a profound impact on my career and personal life. It has empowered me to approach challenges with a growth mindset, sharpen my critical thinking skills, build resilience, communicate effectively, and embrace change. I am grateful for the wisdom and insights gained from this remarkable book.

Categories
Thoughts

“The Immeasurable Worth of Every Human Being”

When I was a child, I used to wonder about the purpose of human existence and why we are created. I questioned why we go through the cycle of being born, growing up, working hard to create a better life, only to ultimately face death. However, as I grew older, time became a valuable teacher and imparted important lessons on living a meaningful life.

I learned that life is not solely about pursuing self-interest, working hard, and accumulating wealth. Life holds much greater value when we extend a helping hand to others and bring meaning to their lives. By offering hope and support to those who are struggling, our own lives gain a deeper sense of purpose.

I came to understand that we are all part of a continuum. Countless individuals have come before us, fulfilling their responsibilities, growing up, receiving an education, working, and leaving behind something valuable for the next generation. In turn, we continue their legacy and, one day, pass on our own contributions to the next generation.

This realization led me to understand that the value of a human being is immeasurable and cannot be quantified. Each individual possesses inherent worth and dignity simply by being human. This worth arises from the unique qualities, capabilities, and potential that each person brings to the world.

Human beings possess remarkable abilities such as thinking, reasoning, creating, and connecting with others on emotional and intellectual levels. We have the power to dream, set goals, and work towards achieving them. Our capacity for growth and self-improvement allows us to continuously evolve and make meaningful contributions to society.

Additionally, human beings have the capacity for empathy, compassion, and understanding. We can form deep and meaningful relationships, forge connections, and build communities based on shared values and experiences. This inherent social nature enables us to support and uplift one another, creating a sense of belonging and solidarity.

The value of a human being goes beyond individual qualities. Each person has a unique perspective, life story, and set of experiences that shape their identity. This diversity of perspectives enriches society, fostering innovation, creativity, and a deeper understanding of the world.

Recognizing and respecting the value of every human being is crucial for nurturing a just and inclusive society. It means treating individuals with dignity, irrespective of their background, race, gender, or other characteristics. Embracing this principle promotes equality, fairness, and the protection of basic human rights.

Ultimately, the value of a human being lies in their potential to contribute to the betterment of themselves, their communities, and the world at large. It is a recognition of the inherent worth and significance that every individual possesses by virtue of their humanity. By embracing and upholding this value, we can create a more compassionate, harmonious, and equitable world for all.

Categories
Education

“Successful Negotiation: Essential Strategies and Skills,”

I am thrilled to share that on July 02, I successfully completed another online course offered by Coursera in collaboration with the University of Michigan. The course I completed was titled “Successful Negotiation: Essential Strategies and Skills,” and it has been an invaluable opportunity for me to enhance my negotiation abilities.

Throughout the course, I gained a comprehensive understanding of negotiation dynamics, encompassing both theoretical concepts and practical application. The curriculum delved into the underlying principles of successful negotiation, covering topics such as power dynamics, effective communication techniques, and the psychology of decision-making.

A standout feature of this course was its emphasis on hands-on learning. Through engaging interactive exercises, intriguing case studies, and realistic simulations, I had the chance to apply the strategies and techniques I learned to actual negotiation scenarios. This experiential approach allowed me to refine my negotiation skills through practice and receive valuable feedback from instructors and peers.

The course also provided me with insights into various types of negotiations, including distributive, integrative, and multiparty negotiations. I learned how to identify and leverage my own interests as well as those of others to create mutually beneficial outcomes. Additionally, I gained valuable knowledge on conflict management and overcoming obstacles during the negotiation process.

The expertise of the course instructors, who are experienced professionals in the field of negotiation, greatly enhanced my learning experience. They offered invaluable guidance, shared practical tips, presented real-life examples, and introduced best practices that helped me develop effective negotiation strategies and enhance my overall negotiation competence.

As a result of completing this course, I now have a solid foundation in essential negotiation strategies and skills. I feel equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to approach negotiations with confidence and achieve favorable outcomes. Whether negotiating in personal or professional contexts, I have gained the ability to navigate complexities, communicate effectively, and create value through collaborative problem-solving.

Overall, the “Successful Negotiation: Essential Strategies and Skills” course offered by Coursera in partnership with the University of Michigan has been a transformative learning experience for me. I am grateful for the opportunity to have participated in this course and am excited to apply my newfound negotiation skills in various aspects of my personal and professional life.

Categories
Education

“English for Career Development”

I am thrilled to announce that on June 29, I successfully completed the online course “English for Career Development” offered by the University of Pennsylvania. This course has been a fantastic opportunity for my career growth, providing me with the necessary language skills and strategies to thrive in the professional world.

The course was specifically designed to enhance English proficiency while focusing on career-specific communication and job search techniques. Its comprehensive curriculum covered a wide range of topics related to career development, ensuring a holistic learning experience.

Throughout the course, I had the privilege to improve my English language skills, including speaking, writing, listening, and reading, all within the context of real-world professional scenarios. The practical approach of the course, with engaging assignments and interactive exercises, allowed me to develop the ability to craft effective resumes and cover letters, prepare for job interviews, and deliver persuasive presentations.

Furthermore, the course provided invaluable insights into networking strategies and building professional relationships in an English-speaking environment. I gained knowledge on important workplace skills such as negotiation, team collaboration, and cross-cultural communication. By exploring various scenarios and case studies, I deepened my understanding of professional communication dynamics and how to navigate them successfully.

The course instructors, who are experienced professionals in the field, played a crucial role in my learning journey. Their guidance and feedback were invaluable in addressing my specific language needs and career aspirations, ensuring that I received personalized attention throughout the course.

As a result of completing this course, I now have a solid foundation in English for professional purposes. I am equipped with the skills and confidence to navigate the job market, communicate effectively with colleagues and clients, and present myself professionally in various business contexts.

I am grateful for the opportunity to have taken the “English for Career Development” course offered by the University of Pennsylvania. It has truly been a valuable resource for advancing my career and succeeding in an English-speaking professional environment.

Categories
Education

“Creative Writing with Google and Wesleyan University”

On June 01, 2023, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in a short-term course on creative writing offered by Google in collaboration with Wesleyan University. This course proved to be truly remarkable, leaving a lasting impact on my writing skills and providing valuable insights into the art of effective storytelling.

Throughout the duration of the course, I was introduced to various aspects of creative writing, ranging from the fundamentals of crafting compelling narratives to exploring different genres and writing styles.

One of the most significant benefits of this course was its emphasis on understanding the correct form of writing. I learned essential techniques for structuring my writing, developing well-rounded characters, and creating vivid settings. The course also delved into the nuances of dialogue, pacing, and descriptive language, enabling me to enhance the overall quality of my writing and engage readers on a deeper level.

As a result of completing this course, I witnessed a significant improvement in my writing abilities. I gained confidence in my storytelling capabilities and developed a deeper appreciation for the art of creative writing. The skills and knowledge I acquired during this program will undoubtedly continue to benefit me in my personal and professional writing endeavors.

I am immensely grateful to Google and Wesleyan University for offering this transformative course. Their commitment to fostering creativity, innovation, and skill development in the field of writing has made a profound impact on my journey as a writer. I look forward to applying the techniques and lessons learned from this course in my future writing projects, knowing that they will contribute to my growth and success as a writer.

Categories
Education

Google Project Management

Recently, I completed the online Google Project Management course, and I found it to be highly effective in developing my knowledge and skills. The course’s comprehensive curriculum, practical approach, emphasis on industry best practices, expert guidance, and networking opportunities all contributed to a well-rounded learning experience. As a result of completing the course, I have seen a significant improvement in my project management abilities, and I feel more confident in my capacity to manage projects effectively.

The key parts of the Google Project Management course are:

  • Comprehensive Curriculum: The course covers a wide range of project management topics, ensuring participants gain a holistic understanding of principles and practices.
  • Practical Approach: Emphasis on practical application through real-world scenarios and case studies helps develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Industry Best Practices: The course incorporates popular methodologies like Agile and Scrum, equipping participants with the latest tools and techniques.
  • Expert Guidance: Led by experienced instructors, the course provides valuable insights, guidance, and feedback for effective learning.
  • Networking Opportunities: Participants can connect with professionals from various industries, fostering knowledge sharing and collaboration.