Mahanaz Ebadi is a Legislative Aide for a District Supervisor at San Francisco City Hall where she works on resolutions, ordinances and legislation improving the City and County of San Francisco. As an Attorney, she is passionate about working alongside the leaders of tomorrow regarding the injustices that women face globally. She aspires to set an example for Afghan women to be strong, outspoken, determined individuals and take active steps to partake in the betterment of themselves and their community.The youngest of four children, Mahanaz is the child of immigrant parents who were granted political asylum back in the 1920’s during the invasion of Afghanistan. Her grandfather was given an award signed by Rosa Parks in recognition of having his name on the wall of tolerance honoring him for taking a personal and public stand against hate, injustice, and intolerance. His passion for advocacy, public interest, and the law was what inspired her to pursue her Juris Doctor.

Mahanaz completed her undergraduate studies at the University of California Davis with a Bachelors in both Psychology and Gender, Sexuality and Women’s Studies and two minors in History and UWP (University Writing Program). She graduated from Golden Gate University School of Law with a specialization in Public Interest and Family Law. Reach out to join or learn more about MAPS-California by contacting california@mapsnational.org.

Zeeshan M. Chaudhry is a Senior Loan Servicing Officer at the SBA (Office of Disaster) in San Francisco, CA, has a decade of experience in Loan Servicing and various other roles. In his role as a Loan Officer, he conducts investigations into potential violations and prepares analyses on a variety of Government Loan Servicing, Collection, and Liquidation matters.

Zeeshan is dedicated to continuing his service in the public sector and embarking on a meaningful journey that allows him to work on social causes that are important to him. He draws inspiration from his late Grandfather, who was the first Pakistani to earn a Masters from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Zeeshan’s goal is to build upon this foundation, strive for excellence, and serve as an example for others in the community.

He takes pride in being a Hafiz-e-Quran and finds inspiration in his status as a proud immigrant who moved from Pakistan after completing high school in Lahore. After completing his studies, he relocated to the Bay Area as a teenager and obtained his higher education from Saint Mary’s College of California, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a major in Finance. Throughout his career, Zeeshan has worked for various organizations including Wells Fargo, LinkedIn, and currently the Government at SBA.

Zeeshan’s professional experience includes working on Government EIDL and PPP loans, overseeing a Portfolio of $1.5 trillion in loans for Small Businesses across the United States. He has had the privilege of working with the White House – Office of Congressional Affairs on Congressional inquiries for Fraudulent loans. Zeeshan has also worked with multiple Senators in Congress, including Nancy Pelosi’s office, to investigate Fraudulent loans throughout California. Currently, he is working on servicing loans from risk management, liquidation, charge off loans, and bankruptcy.. Reach out to join or learn more about MAPS-California by contacting california@mapsnational.org.

Sofia Abdi is currently the Community Engagement Manager for Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, where she is dedicated to serving and advocating for the constituents, community partners, and municipalities of the Massachusetts 7th district. In her role, Sofia addresses diverse needs spanning immigration, housing, education, public safety, and various other areas.

Previously, Sofia served as the Program Outreach Coordinator for the City of Boston’s Diversity Office under Mayor Martin Walsh’s administration. In this role, she spearheaded impactful initiatives aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion within the Boston Police and Fire Department. Sofia’s work involved conducting in-depth research to identify areas for improvement and implementing strategies to enhance diversity recruitment and retention efforts within these vital public safety organizations. Moreover, Sofia played a crucial role in facilitating the successful reintegration of returning citizens into society. Through her efficient and empathetic approach, she addressed the diverse needs of returning citizens, providing them with the necessary support and resources to navigate the challenges of reentry.

Sofia also gained valuable experience working on Capitol Hill in Senator Ed Markey’s office. In this capacity, she ensured constituents’ voices were effectively represented on a wide range of issues, including healthcare, education, environment, and economic development.

Sofia pursued her academic journey at Northeastern University and Cambridge College, earning a bachelor’s degree in political science and psychology. Proudly calling Boston home, she actively advocates for marginalized communities, working tirelessly to create spaces where Muslim and immigrant voices are heard and their needs addressed. Her commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion underscores her passion for building equitable and empowered communities.

Hodan Hashi is a communications professional, photographer, and first-generation Somali American Muslim, committed to promoting diversity and representation in her field. In a landscape where representation is often lacking, she strives to break barriers and pave the path for individuals sharing her immigrant identity. As the Communications and Community Outreach Director for Boston City Council President Ruthzee Louijeune, Hodan leverages her skills to foster community engagement and empower underrepresented groups.  

Hodan also co-founded Black Boston, an organization dedicated to supporting Black Bostonians and addressing racial disparities, reflecting her deep connection to her community and her commitment to positive change. Her advocacy work led her to serve as a field organizer for current Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell’s 2021 Boston mayoral campaign, where she applied her knowledge of politics and social issues to make a meaningful impact.

Her efforts were recognized when she received the Boston Magazine Social Justice Advocate of the Year award in 2021, affirming her dedication to amplifying marginalized voices and advancing social equity.

Hodan earned her bachelor’s degree from Boston University, where she studied political science and African American Studies.

Faarooq Sahabdeen has an intentional focus on uplifting and serving historically underserved communities. Currently he serves as the Regional Director for United States Senator Ed Markey. Leading the Senators portfolios on Housing, Small Business, and advising the Senator on Justice and Antiracism matters.

Prior to joining the United States Senate, Faarooq served as the Secretary for the NAACP – Boston Branch, the first chartered Branch of the Association.  In his role as a Secretary, he assisted the Executive Leadership with all internal and external communications, in-take, supported the Branch in its advocacy-based priorities, and helped support the 114th National NAACP Convention which was held in Boston. During the pandemic Faarooq co-founded the Boston Black Hospitality Coalition and served as the inaugural Executive Director. He worked to prioritize the needs of Black and minority owned restaurants in the City of Boston as well as advocating for equitable policy changes in the hospitality industry. Faarooq also served as the Director of Research, Policy, and Budget for a Boston City Councilor. In this position he penned policy which includes: The Elected School Committee Home Rule Petition (HRP), Boston’s Tree Canopy (HRP), Food Waste Recovery Ordinance, and helped finalize Boston’s Reparations Task Force Ordinance.

Faarooq grew up and went to high school in Amherst, MA, and is the son of immigrants from the island of Sri Lanka. He is the oldest of three with two younger sisters. Faarooq received his B.A. in Political Science with a concentration in American Politics from Emmanuel College in Boston. Faarooq is a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Abdullah Beckett, a Boston native born to Muslim American parents, is the Director of Engagement and Constituent Services for Boston City Council Vice President Brian Worrell. Growing up in the vibrant city of Boston, he was deeply influenced by its diversity and the struggles faced by marginalized communities, particularly the African American population.

While in college, Abdullah founded the National award winning NAACP chapter at UMASS Boston and served as Vice President . He’s also the Founder and first President of the UMASS Boston chapter of My Brother’s Keeper where he championed mentorship and youth development as the university and still serves as an advisor for the fellowship program.

He recently served as a commissioner for the City of Boston’s Commission on Black Men and Boys and was apart of the Education and Youth Development subcommittee, where he used his position to advise Boston’s Mayor on equitable initiatives for black males in the city.

Abdullah earned his B.S in Exercise Health Science from UMASS Boston.

Armaya Doremi, M.S, is an experienced Social Media Manager, Content Creator, and founder of AYAMRA MEDIA LLC, a Boston-based social media agency. With over five years of experience in social and digital communication, she brings a creative and strategic lens to storytelling and audience engagement. She holds a Master’s degree in Communication from Northeastern University, with a focus in Public Relations.

In her role as Communication Director at MAPS, Armaya leads internal and external communication strategies to ensure alignment with the organization’s mission—uplifting and connecting Muslim American public servants through impactful digital platforms.

Her background includes managing digital campaigns for small businesses across Boston and delivering powerful visual narratives through video production, graphic design, and email marketing. Passionate about representation and community-building, she leverages her skills to amplify diverse voices and support initiatives that promote equity and inclusion in public service.

Machhadie Assi (Micho) holds a position at the Michigan Democratic Caucus, as the office manager of the Michigan House Dem Communication, under the leadership of Speaker of the House Joe Tate. With over a decade of experience, Micho’s career journey exemplifies a strong dedication to justice and equality, governmental and nonprofit leadership, and operations, project management, and advocacy. Starting as a teaching assistant at the University of Michigan Dearborn’s Criminal Justice program, she transitioned to roles at the Washtenaw County Public Defender’s Office and later the Michigan Attorney General’s Office, notably as a special victim advocate on the flint water case, criminal prosecution unit

Micho has demonstrated proficiency in political campaigns, operational management, strategic communication, and outreach, particularly within the Arab American and Muslim American communities. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she led operational efforts at the Michigan Muslim Community Council, establishing partnerships and leading crisis response initiatives,  serving over 27 community centers in 11 counties across Michigan.

Dedicated to enhancing diversity and inclusion, Micho advocates for voter engagement and collaborates with local and national nonprofit organizations to empower women of color and mobilize new American voters. Her insights have garnered recognition in various media outlets, and she has been a featured speaker at conventions nationally addressing topics such as political activism and immigrant empowerment. Her efforts highlight the significant role of naturalized citizens in shaping community and political landscapes, making her a prominent leader and advocate within her communities.

She has received numerous prestigious awards, recognizing her exceptional leadership, skills, and dedication to her values. Some of her notable achievements include being named a “Difference Maker” by the University of Michigan in 2017, recognized nationally among Arab America’s “40 under 40” in 2023, honored as a women leader by USA Hello in 2020, and receiving the 2022 Sgt Vincent J. Bell Service Award. She has also been acknowledged as an Arab American leader by NPNA in 2023 and distinguished as the “Voice of the Voiceless”  by the Washington Center 2023. Additionally, she has been recognized as “Women on the Move” by We Are All America.

Omar Sharjah currently serves as legal counsel for the State House Republicans, leveraging his extensive legal experience to support legislative efforts.

Prior to this, Omar was an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney in Wayne County, where he became the first Yemeni American prosecutor in the county’s history. In this role, he brought a unique perspective to his work, focusing on enhancing safety and justice in diverse communities. Omar is an active member of the Michigan State Bar and the Federalist Society, reflecting his deep commitment to both his profession and his legal values.

Omar earned his undergraduate degree from Eastern Michigan University and his Juris Doctorate from Thomas Cooley Law School.

Aiyah Kassem currently works as a Deputy Court Clerk at the 19th District Court in Dearborn, Michigan. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice and is currently completing her Master’s in Public Administration and Public Policy (MPAP) at the University of Michigan-Dearborn.

Her professional experience includes roles at the 36th District Court in Detroit and an internship at the Frank Murphy Hall of Justice, where she developed strong knowledge of court operations, legal documentation, and case management. She is also a state-certified driving instructor, providing structured instruction in traffic safety, Michigan driving laws, and responsible road behavior to both teens and adults.

Aiyah is deeply involved in community service. She has volunteered with organizations such as the Detroit Eviction Defense, ACCESS, Michigan Muslim Community food drives, and the SAFE Coalition. She has also supported civic engagement efforts by assisting political campaigns, distributing resources to families in need, and participating in events focused on social and racial justice.

She plans to pursue law school to further her commitment to justice, public service, and deepen her impact in the legal field.

Ola Albayati currently serves as the Legislative Director for Wayne County Commissioner Sam Baydoun, where she oversees daily office operations and leads legislative initiatives. She is a graduate of Wayne State University, where she earned a degree in Political Science with a minor in Business Law. Previously, Ola worked as the Field Director for Michigan State Representative Alabas Farhat, leading canvassing efforts and voter engagement strategies. She also completed a prestigious legislative affairs internship with Congressman André Carson in Washington, D.C., through the Congressional Leadership Development Program (CLDP), powered by the Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC).

Ola’s commitment to public service is reflected in her work on the campaign team for Dearborn Mayor Abdullah Hammoud, as well as her volunteer efforts with Emgage, where she helped register and mobilize Muslim American voters across Michigan. She has also been appointed to the Wayne County Advisory Council, where she has contributed to local policy discussions aimed at engaging younger generations.

Saja Badawi currently serves as a victims advocate with using her background in criminal justice, legislative research, and community advocacy. Saja brings valuable experience and a strong commitment to advancing our mission, making her a great addition to the MAPS Michigan team.

Nancy attended Drew University, in Madison, NJ where she studied political science, German, and Arabic. After receiving her bachelor’s, Nancy went on to join the NYC Teach for America Corps in 2017, where she taught middle schoolers English language arts. After three years of teaching, Nancy went on to attend Seton Hall Law School in Newark, NJ and is now a law clerk in Middlesex County Superior Court. Nancy feels strongly that government should function to serve everyone, and seeks to use her law degree in order to support that mission. She is an astrology enthusiast and has an eclectic music taste.

As a recent graduate of Seton Hall University School of Law, Labiba has long been drawn to pursuing a career in public service. Her passion for government service started with exposure to working in both state and federal capacities.

After entering law school, Labiba has served as an intern for various agencies, some of which include the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, the United States Attorney’s Office in the District of New Jersey, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy.

Currently, Labiba serves as a judicial law clerk for the Superior Court of New Jersey, and hopes to continue her legal career in public service.

Basem’s passion for wielding communication as a tool for good has earned him the reputation as a pivotal figure in driving positive social change and fostering a more inclusive global society.

He is a seasoned communications strategist and executive leader, currently serving within the NYC Mayor’s Office.

His strategic vision and execution capabilities have been instrumental in overseeing national strategy development with the highest levels of government and foreign embassies.

Prior to his current role in government, Basem’s experience includes significant contributions to mission-driven causes, leveraging his skills in activating communities and creating culturally responsive communications that influence policy makers around the world to work for all people. Basem’s work has had a profound impact on creating equity for marginalized and vulnerable communities across America and internationally.

Basem is also a former tenured Associate Professor of Visual Communications and research academic with multiple Master’s Degrees and Certificates from institutions like Columbia, Harvard, Princeton, and Rutgers. His graduate research concentrated on intercultural communications with extensive focus on Muslim Americans.

Hesham El-Meligy is a Senior Financial Services Examiner at the New York State Department of Financial Services. In 2013, he achieved the historic milestone of becoming the first Arab American to reach the general election in New York’s political history when he ran for New York City Comptroller.

Hesham has played a crucial role as the coordinator of the Coalition for Muslim School Holidays, successfully advocating for the recognition of Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha as official holidays in the New York City public school system. He has been an active part of the Muslim leadership that organized against the surveillance of Muslims by the NYPD.

Beyond his professional and political endeavors, Hesham is an interfaith leader, a compelling public speaker, and the host of a thought-provoking podcast. His dedication to fostering understanding and cooperation among diverse communities is a testament to his commitment to a more inclusive and harmonious society.