The Team
Who We Are
Afsana Ahmadi
Founder & CEO
Afsana Ahmadi is a dynamic advocate for education and human rights, recognized as the 2023 Young Leader of the WOW Foundation for her groundbreaking work in empowering Afghan girls. Afsana has dedicated her voice to amplifying the challenges faced by Afghan girls and women on prominent global platforms, including the Doha Debate and the United Nations LDC5 Conference, where she delivered a powerful speech advocating for access to education amidst systemic barriers. She is also the young ambassador of the International Global Network (IGN).
A former member of the internationally renowned Afghan Girls Robotics Team, Afsana embodies resilience and innovation. Her leadership and advocacy have inspired global audiences, showcasing the transformative power of education and equity. Now pursuing a degree in Government and International Politics, Afsana continues to champion initiatives that drive meaningful change, leveraging her experiences to address pressing global challenges with courage and determination.
Fareshta Bahadur
Strategic Lead
Fareshta Bahadur is a dedicated student of Computer Science at the University of Toronto in Canada and a former member of the renowned Afghan Girls Robotics Team. With a passion for empowering Afghan girls through education and technology, she brings strategic vision and leadership to Al Amanah. Her experiences in innovation and advocacy inspire her work in shaping initiatives that support academic and personal growth for Afghan girls worldwide.
Khujasta Ahmadi
Outreach & Communications Lead
Khujasta is a Computer Science student at the University of Toronto in Canada and a former member of the Afghan Girls Robotics Team. With a strong background in technology and digital engagement, she manages Al Amanah’s social media presence, ensuring impactful outreach and advocacy for Afghan girls' education. Her dedication to storytelling and online engagement helps amplify Al Amanah’s mission, connecting supporters and driving meaningful change.
Sheyda Hashemi
Operations Lead
Sheyda is a former political science student at Herat University and is currently studying philosophy and literature at Sapienza University of Rome in Itlay. As a feminist and women’s rights activist, she is passionate about gender justice, human rights, and women’s empowerment. Her experience in two different educational systems has given her a broad perspective on social and political issues. Committed to positive change, she seeks opportunities for academic growth and social activism to contribute to improving the situation of Afghan women.
Somaya Aswadi
Administrative Liaison
A Computer Science student at Stony Brook University with a passion for robotics, problem-solving, and advocacy. As a former member of the Afghan National Robotics Team, Somaya has experience in system testing, collaboration, and innovation. Awarded the State of Qatar Full-Ride Scholarship and recognized for contributions at the United Nations Conference. Serving as the Administrative Liaison Direcot on the Executive Board of Al Amanah, Somaya works to empower Afghan girls through education, mentorship, and crisis support. Actively engaged in student organizations, fostering leadership and inclusivity. Skilled in customer service, teamwork, and adaptability, with a strong dedication to learning and technology. Fluent in Dari and English.
Sumia Qattali
Education Lead
A Computer Science student at Stony Brook University, originally from Herat, Afghanistan. With a strong passion for technology and a deep belief in the power of education, Sumia has been dedicated to creating opportunities for women and girls in STEM. As a former member of the Afghan Girls Robotics Team (2022–2023), she has firsthand experience leading innovative projects and collaborating with teams to solve complex challenges, skills she now brings into her professional journey.
In her role as Finance and Operations Director at Al Amanah, Sumia manages the financial planning and day-to-day operations that keep our work moving forward. She is focused on building clear, sustainable systems to support our mission, ensuring that every resource is used thoughtfully to maximize our impact.
Raihanna Sattari
Finance Lead
Committed to driving innovation, advocating for human rights, and positively impacting the world.
Sattari is the first Afghan student at Texas A&M University in Qatar, where she studies mechanical engineering. Originally from Afghanistan, Raihana is passionate about engineering, creative problem-solving, and leadership. She is a Qatar Scholarship for Afghans Project recipient and an Afghan Girls Robotics Team member.
Her experience spans global and local platforms, including being a recipient of the Qatar Scholarship for Afghans Project, representing Afghanistan in LDC5, hosted by the United Nations, and participating in the FIRST Global Challenge as a member of the Afghan Girls Robotics team.
She has also completed internships with Qatar Foundation Higher Education offices, peer tutoring at Texas A&M University at Qatar, and leadership roles, such as managing the women's section at an English learning institute in Herat.