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Board of Directors
Board of Directors
Shahla Azizi
Founder & President
Shahla Azizi
Position:
Founder, board member, and President of the Afghan-American Women’s Association
Background:
Ms. Shahla Azizi was inspired to launch A-AWA as a result of her steadfast involvement in other Organizations, where she witnessed a need to provide additional support for the special challenges faced by all Afghan people. After careful planning and collaboration with talented, similarly impassioned people, the first public appearance of the organization occurred in 2009. Shahla has contributed substantial growth to the organization by networking, developing opportunities, creating public awareness, and management of the foundation’s members. She serves as a liaison between Afghan women facing challenges, and the resources A-AWA can make available to provide support and assistance.
Shahla left Afghanistan and arrived in Montreal in 1983. After 11 years of challenging life and learning languages, In 1994 she left Montreal, taking residence in Virginia. She has lived and worked in Virginia since then, and has dedicated her passion to helping others by bringing to life the Afghan American Women’s Association.
Shahla works for the Department of Defense and she holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration, Business Management and is fluent in English, Dari/Persian, and French.
Key Qualifications:
- Master’s degree in Business Administration, Business Management.
- Fluent in English, Dari/Persian and French.
- Member of the Afghan American Chamber of Commerce (AACC)
Dr. Homaira Behsudi-Wali
Founder & Vice President
Dr. Homaira Behsudi-Wali
Position:
Founder & Vice President, Board Member and Co-Founder of the Afghan-American Women’s Association
Background:
Dr. Homaira Behsudi-Wali is Board certified by the American Academy of Family Physicians; licensed in the State of Virginia. She grew up in Afghanistan after earning her Medical degree (MD) from Kabul University, Faculty of Medicine, Kabul Afghanistan. She left the country due to war and political threat to her family. After living in India for one year, she settled in the US in 1987 to pursue her career.
Key Achievements:
- Master’s degree in Public Health from Johns Hopkins University
- Residency in family practice at Bethesda Hospital in Cincinnati
- Assistant Clinical Professor of Health Care Science at George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences
- Founder of Vienna Integrative Healthcare in 2007
- Member, American Academy of Family Physicians
- Member, Northern Virginia Medical Society
- Member, Institute for Functional Medicine
- Past President and Member, Afghan Medical Professionals Association of America
She lives in Northern Virginia with her husband and two children. in her spare time, she enjoys tennis, reading, volunteering and spending time with family and friends.
Nillab Pazhwak
Co-founder & Executive Director
Nillab Pazhwak
Position:
Board Member, Chair Community Outreach/Refugee Resettlement
Background:
Mrs. Nillab Pazhwak is a professional educator, community leader, and human rights advocate with a rich history of volunteerism and leadership. Since the inception of A-AWA in 2008, Nillab has served as co-founder and member of the Board of Directors, later assuming the role of Executive Director.
Beyond her work with A-AWA, Nillab actively participates in various advocacy groups, including the Together Stronger, AWN and the National Welcome Council initiative. With a diverse background in social work, she has served as a refugee resettlement counselor, regional mental health program coordinator, and UN Volunteer (UNV).
Nillab’s academic journey began in Afghanistan, where she completed her high school amidst the ongoing conflict. She holds BA and MA degrees in Political Science(India) and Education Management (USA) along with a post-graduate certificate in counseling (Canada) . Currently, Nillab contributes her expertise as a certified Quality Assurance Specialist and Faculty Trainer in online education at NOVA Community College leveraging almost two decades of experience in distance and adult education, including teaching as adjunct faculty. Committed to her family’s legacy of public service and inspired by her upbringing, Nillab remains dedicated to teaching and spreading compassion.
Key Achievements:
- MAs in Political Science and Education Management
- Adjunct Faculty at Strayer University, Stratford University and American Public University
- Certified reviewer and trainer in e-learning and adult education
- Member, Afghan Women Organization, Toronto, Canada
- Member, Learning Resources Network (North American Faculty Club)
Mrs. Nillab Pazhwak lives in Fairfax, VA, her husband, Barmak Pazhwak and their three sons. In her spare time, she enjoys Afghan literature, political debates and nature walks.
Heela Sahely
Secretary & Board Member
Hannah Hopkins
Position:
Board member and Secretary for the Board.
Background:
Heela Sahely is Secretary of the Board for the Afghan-American Women’s Association. In addition to her dedication to women’s rights and development, she has a strong commitment to supporting her community.
During her academic journey at Virginia Commonwealth University, Heela has pursued studies in Psychology and Communication Arts. She is also recognized as an artist and facilitator with a passion for empowering women. In her spare time, Heela undertakes side projects aimed at increasing quality and fostering positive change within her sphere of influence
Dr. Nahid Nasrat
Board Member
Dr. Nahid Nasrat
Position:
Board Member of the Afghan-American Women’s Association
Background:
Dr. Nahid Nasrat, a seasoned psychologist and full professor at the Chicago School’s Doctoral Clinical Psychology Program in Washington, DC, also holds the position of International Visiting Professor and Scholar at Leeds Beckett University, UK. With over 20 years of experience in teaching and mentoring, Dr. Nasrat specializes in diversity training and research, particularly focusing on refugees’ and immigrants’ psycho-social well-being in conflict and post-conflict regions.
Her accolades include the Outstanding Dissertation Award for her clinical manual aiding mental health professionals working with Afghan refugee women. Dr. Nasrat’s leadership extends to her role as Past-President of the American Psychological Association, Division 48, Society for the Study of Peace, Conflict, and Violence- Peace Psychology (2021).
Acknowledged as a lifetime peace practitioner, she has received prestigious awards such as the Ignacio Matin Baró Lifetime Peace Practitioner Award and the Anthony J. Marsella Prize for the Psychology of Peace and Social Justice. Additionally, she has been recognized for her contributions to diversity and multicultural teaching excellence.
Dr. Nasrat actively contributes to various organizations, serving on the Executive Board of the Afghan American Women’s Association and as Co-Chair of the Afghanistan Mental Health Workgroup at SAMHSA. Her advocacy reaches international platforms through TV and radio appearances and extensive publications on the mental health and human rights of Afghan women.
Key Achievements:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from California State University of Fullerton, CA
- Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Alliant International University, CA
- Doctor of Clinical Psychology from Alliant International University, CA
- Associate Professor at American School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University.
- Vice President of Afghan Education For A Better Tomorrow and Afghan Medical Professional Association of America, non-profit organizations, which provide health and education services in Afghanistan
- Co-Chair of the Afghanistan Mental Health Workgroup at Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), helping Afghanistan’s Ministry of Public Health establish and reconstruct mental health services and develop mental health capacity.
- Recipient of 2015 Ignacio Matin Baro lifetime Peace Practitioner Award, and Anthony J. Marsella Prize for the Psychology of Peace and Social Justice, as well as the National Colleges and Schools of Professional Psychology (NCSPP) 2016 Diversity Award
- She lives in Maryland and enjoys reading, writing, and playing tennis and spending time with family and friends.
Dr. Syed Amiry
Board Member
Dr. Syed Amiry
Position:
Board member
Background:
Dr. Syed A. Amiry is a board certified dermatologist who specializes in general dermatology, laser and cosmetic procedures. His private practice serves the Northern Virginia and Washington DC areas. Dr Amiry is affiliated with Reston Hospital in Reston, VA. Dr Amiry received his Bachelor of Science degree, with honors, from Grinnell College in Iowa. He went on to receive his medical degree from the Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in Missouri, and then completed internships at Pontiac Osteopathic Hospital in Michigan, and Saint Mary’s Community Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He completed his residency in dermatology at Geisinger Medical Center in Davile, PA. where he became chief resident. He then completed a fellowship at Dermatology Associates of San Diego County in Mohs, laser treatments, liposculpture and other minimally invasive cosmetic procedures.
As a board certified dermatologist Dr Amiry is a member of many relevant national organizations including by the American Academy of Dermatology, Dr. Amiry currently practices at Reston Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery in Virginia, where he specializes in a number of aesthetic procedures, including facial rejuvenation, laser skin tightening and liquid facelifts. He is considered an expert in cosmetic injectables and has taught other medical professionals the skill and art of dermal fillers. Committed to education in the medical field, he has served as a teaching assistant in courses on biology and organic chemistry, and his research on various skin treatments has been published in respected medical journals. He is also committed to giving back to his community, having served as a counselor for children with skin disorders at Camp Horizon.
Professional Experience
2003 – Present: Private Practice, Reston, VA
2002: Murad Medical Group, El Segundo, CA
Najia Arsalayee
Treasurer
Najia Arsalayee
Position:
Treasurer
Background:
Mrs. Najia Arsalayee was born and grew up in Kabul; she completed her high school at Rabia Balkhi High School and went on to attend Kabul University pursuing a BA in Science. Like many other Afghans, Mrs. Arsalayee was forced to migrate to Pakistan in 1986. She immediately enrolled in medical training program and started working as medical aid at emergency hospital for Afghan Refugee Women and Children. Because of her passion and commitment, Najia was very soon promoted to work as emergency room nurse. In the US, Najia Arsalayee worked during the day to support her family and attended school at night. Mrs. Arsalayee has worked for several private and non-private organizations in such positions as Membership Director and Senior Accountant. She is currently working as HR and accounting Specialist at Priority One Services.
Key Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from George Mason University
- Associate degrees in the fields of Computer Information and Business Administration from NOVA Community College
- Co – founder of Rabia Balkhi High School online group with regular help sent in to support economically challenged Afghan women
- Leading A-AWA’s pilot project with Daughter of Rabia Balkhi to raise funds and coordinate with partners on ground
- Volunteer work with Afghan Academy and MakeSpace
Mrs. Arsalayee lives in Alexandria, VA, with her husband, Tariq Arsalayee and their three children, Heiwad, Sarah and Zack. Like many Afghans, Najia is dreaming for a peaceful and stable Afghanistan where she can go back and work on the passion she has left behind.
Palwasha Hassan
Board Member
Palwasha Hassan
Position:
Board Member, Field Representative inside Afghanistan
Background:
Palwasha Hassan is the Senior Technical and Program Director for Mina’s List, overseeing all program implementation. Prior to joining Mina’s List, she was a senior fellow at Georgetown University, Institute of Women Peace Security. In Afghanistan, she was the former Executive Director of the Afghan Women’s Educational Center and a founding member of the Afghan Women’s Network. She has over 26 years of experience managing and leading complex projects in gender, development, humanitarian aid, and peacebuilding.
In addition to her work in Afghanistan, she has experience working in Pakistan, Iran, and Central Asia. She has facilitated regional dialogues among civil society to promote human rights, peace, and democracy in South Asia. Palwasha has in-depth experience and profound knowledge in research and has in-depth experience in initiating and setting up organizations, developing and coordinating projects and teams, and advocating for women’s rights and gender-sensitive laws and policies with local government and international stakeholders in Afghanistan and around the world.
Key Achievements:
- One of the 1000 women nominees for Noble Peace Award Initiative from Afghanistan
- Civil Society designated speaker in Afghanistan Development Forum 2003, 2004
- Civil Society designated speaker and representative in Tokyo (2002) and Kabul (2010)
- Civil Society nominee for Women Ministry 2010
Previous Board Members
Nooria Faryar
Nooria Faryar
Position:
Board member and Chairperson of the Language and Cultural Program
Background:
Mrs. Faryar grew up in Afghanistan where she earned her BA degree in English from Kabul University in Afghanistan. She taught at several high schools and was a faculty member at Kabul University. She also served as the principal of Sultana Razaia High School in Mazar-e-Sharif, Afghanistan. Presently, Mrs. Faryar is a Professor of English and teaches at Northern Virginia Community College. Over the years, she has taught English at various institutions in the United States including T.C. Williams High School in Alexandria.
Key Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in English and Education from Kabul University
- Masters degree in Applied Linguistics from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C.
Mrs. Faryar is married and is the mother of two children and four grandchildren. She enjoys teaching languages and taking part in different Afghan community cultural activities.
Homaira Fahimi
Homaira Fahimi
Position:
Treasurer
Background:
Mrs. Fahimi has served in various Assistant Vice President and Financial Manager positions. She enjoys extensive experience in banking. with specialized skills in leadership, business development and team building. Mrs. Fahimi’s professional experience extends to hiring professionals, implementing budget reductions and writing business plans.
Key Achievements:
- Associate Degree in Computer Information System and Business
- Member of Afghan American Chamber of Commerce
- Board Member of Reston and Dulles Chambers
Mrs. Fahimi is married to Mr. Khalid Fahimi, and is the mother of two sons, Joseph and Ali.
Sima Wali
Sima Wali
Position:
Honorary Board Member
Background:
Coming soon
Dr. Hosai Hesham
Dr. Hosai Hesham
Position:
Co-Founder of the Afghan-American Women’s Association
Background:
Dr. Hosai Hesham grew up in Worcester, MA where she completed her primary and secondary education. She attended College of the Holy Cross, graduating in 2000 with a degree in Biology. Hosai obtained her MD from Albany Medical College in 2004. After graduating from medical school, she moved to Washington DC to continue her training in Otolaryngology- Head and Neck Surgery at Georgetown University Hospital.
Key Qualifications:
- Board Certified in Otolaryngology- Head and Neck Surgery
- Chief of Otolaryngology at the DC Veterans Affairs Hospital
- Past President and Member, Afghan Medical Professionals Association of America
- Assistant Professor at Georgetown University
Dr. Hesham is married. She is now living and working in Washington, D.C.
Hawa Nawaz
Hawa Nawaz
Position:
Treasurer
Background:
Coming Soon!
Malal Nezam
Malal Nezam
Malal Nezam was born in Kabul, Afghanistan. She is a graduate of prestigious Malalai High school. As a young learner, she attended French Cultural Center for French Language, The Kabul Art School for painting and Peace Corp. School of Secretarial Studies. She started writing short stories that was frequently published in newspapers and magazines. Her short story of (The Crown of Desire) received the highest prize from the Ministry of Press in Afghanistan.
Malal Nezam obtained her bachelor degree from The Faculty of Law and Political Science, Kabul University and earned a scholarship for graduate school at Sorbonne University – Paris, but as a young mother, she preferred to stay with family. Later, she opened a western style boutique in the heart of Kabul City, promoting modern fashion for Kabul women society which was much appreciated.
After the 1978 coup, she had to flee Kabul with family and finally settled down in the United States. In Virginia, Malal Nezam attended NOVA College for Travel and Tourism along with working full time, and raising her children. She successfully managed “Advance Travel” in Fairfax for 22 years. Soon she became a community server by helping new comers and refugee families. She also started writing articles defending human rights of women and children in Afghanistan which are widely published in Afghan media all over the World.
Key Qualifications:
- BA in Law and Political Science, Kabul University
- Travel and Tourism Professional
- Member of Board of Directors of A-AWA, Treasurer and Lead Volunteer promoting fundraising efforts and community services
- Community Services volunteer to Afghan refugees and human rights activist for over 25 years
- Manager of Kabul based Aschiana Children Association’s sponsorship section in USA for over 18 years (250 children are sponsored to go to school and learn a profession)
- Member of Board of Directors of Ariana Afghanistan Online website and Esteqlaal.net, promoting Afghan literature, culture, history in Dari and Pashtu languages