“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
— Nelson Mandela
The Inspiration
This scholarship fund is deeply inspired by the journey of my father, Dr. Mirwais Azizi, whose story is one of resilience, perseverance, and the transformative power of education. An Afghan refugee, he fled Afghanistan in 1979 following the Soviet invasion, leaving behind a homeland engulfed in conflict. This abrupt uprooting marked the beginning of a life filled with challenges, uncertainties, and the struggle to rebuild a future in foreign lands.
His journey took him first to Germany, where he and his family lived from 1979 to 1981, navigating the difficulties of displacement and cultural adjustment. In October 1981, they relocated to Maryland, seeking stability and opportunity, only to move again in 1983 to California. Just two weeks after arriving in California, at the age of 13, my father faced the profound loss of his father, a profound challenge for a young man to endure while still finding his footing in a new country.
Despite these hardships, my father found solace and purpose in education. It became his anchor, guiding him through the turbulence of displacement and loss. With steadfast determination, he pursued his studies, earning a bachelor’s degree and a master’s in health administration. He further demonstrated his drive by completing an MBA and ultimately achieving an Ed.D. in educational technology from Pepperdine University, a testament to his unwavering commitment to personal and academic growth.
His journey is a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, education can provide a path to stability, success, and hope. My father’s persistence, strength, and determination continue to inspire me every day! Without his sacrifices, guidance, and example he set, I would not be in the position I am in today. This scholarship fund is not only a tribute to his legacy but also a way to extend his values—helping Afghan refugees and others facing hardships find their footing, just as he did, through the life-changing power of education.
The Mission
At The Ilm Foundation (TiF), our vision is to create a transformative pathway for Afghan refugee students to overcome barriers and achieve success in higher education and beyond. By providing a comprehensive scholarship we aim to support these students in becoming empowered leaders who will drive change within their communities and the world.
Afghan refugee students often face unique challenges such as displacement, financial constraints, and limited access to educational resources, which can make pursuing higher education seem unattainable. At TiF, we are committed to breaking down these barriers and fostering an environment where students can thrive academically, professionally, and personally through mentorship and career development opportunities. Our goal is to equip them with the tools, confidence, and resilience needed to navigate higher education and transition seamlessly into meaningful careers.
Central to our mission are four key pillars: academic excellence, career readiness, personal growth, and cultural empowerment. Through this scholarship, we aim to alleviate the financial burdens that hinder access to education. At TiF, we envision a future where Afghan refugee students not only succeed in college but also emerge as leaders who inspire and uplift others. By investing in their potential today, we are building a foundation for a brighter, more equitable tomorrow.
The Preparation
This course serves as a bridge between high school and higher education, providing students with the tools and insights needed to succeed academically and thrive socially in the U.S. college environment. Over four weeks, students will engage in a dynamic blend of self-paced modules, discussions, and mentorship opportunities to foster their confidence and readiness for the challenges ahead.
The course is structured around three primary goals:
1. Academic Preparation: Students will learn critical skills such as time management, effective study techniques, and navigating classroom norms, including participation, collaboration, and professor interactions.
2. Cultural Adaptation: Through interactive activities and discussions, students will explore key aspects of American culture, such as individualism, diversity, and open communication, helping them integrate into campus life while honoring their own cultural identities.
3. Community Building and Personal Growth: Students will connect with peers, mentors, and professionals who share their experiences, fostering a supportive network that emphasizes resilience, leadership, and a growth mindset.
This course is more than preparation, it’s a transformative experience aimed at equipping the students with the ability to embrace their unique potential while navigating the complexities of college life. By the end of the course, the students will feel confident, supported, and empowered to succeed in their academic and personal endeavors.
Click the link below to access the “Assimilation 101: Navigating College Life & Society in the U.S.” course: https://canvas.instructure.com/enroll/PFYWRB
The Experience
Working on this project has been an incredibly enriching journey, filled with challenges, growth, and valuable lessons. From the initial stages of brainstorming to building the Canvas course and designing the scholarship fund, every step has taught me the importance of persistence, adaptability, and embracing failure as a vital part of the learning process!
Through trial and error, I discovered that mistakes are not setbacks, they are opportunities for growth. Each challenge, whether it was refining the course content or finding the right structure to meet the students’ needs, offered critical insights that pushed me to improve. I learned that success doesn’t come from getting everything right the first time but from being willing to iterate and adapt until the vision is realized.
One of the most significant takeaways from this experience was recognizing the importance of working with subject matter experts (SMEs). Collaborating with individuals who bring deep knowledge and expertise is an invaluable asset in ensuring that this course and scholarship program is not only well-informed but also impactful.
Above all, this work has reaffirmed my passion for education. I have come to love the process of designing learning experiences that empower others to overcome challenges and reach their potential. Knowing that this project has the potential to make a tangible difference in the lives of Afghan refugee students is deeply rewarding. It inspires me to continue learning, growing, and creating initiatives that foster equity, opportunity, and success for all.
