Mekhribon (Mika) ABDULLAEVA
Uzbekistan
The Margaret McNamara Memorial Fund (MMMF), now MMEG, supported me at a pivotal moment in my life, enabling me to pursue an education that laid the foundation for my career and passion for social impact. With the generous support of a MMEG grant, I obtained a master’s in intercultural service, leadership and management at the School for International Training (SIT) in Vermont, an inspiring campus where I formed lifelong friendships with peers from across the United States and around the globe. This rich intercultural experience expanded my horizons and deepened my commitment to creating meaningful change.
My academic journey at SIT culminated in a practicum in Washington, DC, where I served as a policy fellow with the National Organization for Women (NOW). This transformative opportunity allowed me to engage directly with policymakers, meet with members of Congress, and advocate for policies aimed at improving the lives of the most vulnerable populations. Through NOW, I also participated in the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (UN Women), amplifying my advocacy efforts on a global scale to champion women's rights and gender equity.
Building on these experiences, I pursued a PhD in international education from the University of Massachusetts, further deepening my expertise on advocacy and policy. My dissertation focused on the vital role of parental engagement in immigrant communities, reflecting my deep-seated commitment to supporting marginalized groups. Since then, I have dedicated my career to improving the lives of vulnerable populations across Central Asia, Eastern Europe, and the Balkans. My work has included designing and managing programs that:
Empower youth through social entrepreneurship initiatives;
Improve the lives of women and girls by providing shelters, basic services, and pathways to independence;
Advocate for and support people with disabilities, fostering inclusion and equal opportunities;
Support prevention, protection, and prosecution of trafficking in persons globally.
My journey led me to the U.S. Department of State’s Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons, where I contribute to shaping policies to prevent trafficking, prosecute offenders, and protect victims. My role spans Southeast Asia, Africa, and the Western Hemisphere, where I lead anti-trafficking projects, conduct research, and collaborate with local stakeholders to drive impactful change.The support I received from MMEG was not just financial—it was a profound affirmation of my capacity and my desire to create a better world. I am forever grateful for the MMEG’s belief in me and for their continued inspiration and support. Their investment in education exponentially increases our power to affect the course of the international community by empowering others committed to improving the lives of people everywhere.
Thank you, MMEG, for being a catalyst for my journey. Your support transformed my life and, through my work, continues to touch the lives of many others.
