Who's Who?

Languages: English / French / Japanese

Aika Fallstrom serves as the Community Engagement Program Coordinator for Washington County's Office of Equity, Inclusion, and Community Engagement (OEICE). In this role, she fosters connections between the county and its diverse communities, promoting inclusivity and active participation. Prior to joining OEICE, Aika worked in the Health and Human Services Department as a Program Specialist, where she contributed to public health initiatives. Her transition to OEICE reflects her dedication to advancing equity and community engagement. Aika's efforts are instrumental in creating a more inclusive and connected community in Washington County. 

Languages: English / Spanish

Alex Vargas Hernandez (he/they/el) is a dedicated community organizer and advocate who has been actively working with Unite Oregon's Washington County Chapter for the past year. As a bilingual leader fluent in English and Spanish, Alex collaborates closely with Spanish-speaking communities in Washington County, addressing their needs and advocating for equity and justice. Their experience includes grassroots fundraising, organizing phone banks, and leading advocacy efforts at the Oregon Food Bank and Next Up Oregon. Currently pursuing a degree in Political Science and Psychology at Portland State University, Alex is committed to fostering transformative change and uplifting marginalized voices through organizing and advocacy.

Languages: English / Spanish / Yucatec Maya

Allison deFreese is president of the Oregon Society of Translators and Interpreters (OSTI). Her recent translations include astronaut José M. Hernández's Soaring to New Heights (2020), Verónica González Arredondo's I Am Not That Body (Not a Pipe Publishing, 2024), Carolina Esses' Winter Season (Entre Ríos Books, 2023), Luciana Jazmín Coronado's Dinner at Las Heras (C&R Press, 2024), and Karla Marrufo's The City Within You (Cathexis Press, 2024). She is co-editor of A Proclamation for Peace (2024). 

Languages: English / Hebrew / Italian / German / Spanish / French

Born in Israel and based in Portland, Amir Avsker is a pianist, violinist, violist, composer, and conductor. A sought-after performer, he has played as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral player on national and international stages. He was the 2023 Young Artist in Residence at All Classical Portland and has won multiple awards, including the 2023 Metropolitan Youth Symphony Concerto Competition. Amir co-founded the Pacific Rose Ensemble, promoting young composers. A passionate linguist, he speaks six languages and has a deep love for opera. In 2024, he conducted the Metropolitan Youth Symphony on tour in Spain and Portugal.

Languages: English / Spanish / Russia

Christina is an equity practitioner with 20 years of direct service experience, specializing in community engagement and communication. She holds bachelor's degrees in Social Work and Spanish, and a Master's in Public Administration. As the founder of Oak Bridge Consultants, she provides expertise in Organizational Leadership, Change Management, Board Development, and EDI Strategic Planning. Christina is an expert on human trafficking, gangs, and equity policy, educating over 1,000 people on topics like sexual exploitation, trafficking, and victimology. She is widely consulted and has presented to international audiences, including the National Gang Crime Research Center and Northwest Gang Investigators Association.

Languages: English / Dari / Pashto

Darwaish Zakhil is the Co-Founder and Director of Community Advancement at the Afghan Support Network, and he proudly serves as the Chair of the Diversity Advisory Board of Beaverton. This inspiring leader is deeply committed to empowering Afghans in Oregon and southwest Washington through advocacy, services, and resources. Since 2017, Darwaish has been a beacon of hope for Afghan community members, guiding them through complex systems to access the vital support they deserve. In response to the significant influx of Afghan refugees in 2021, he and his dedicated team established the Afghan Support Network to address the urgent needs of Afghan community. Darwaish’s unwavering commitment to fostering connection, love, and peace has transformed countless lives, promoting unity and understanding across the communities of Oregon and southwest Washington.

Languages: English / Nepali

David Nieslanik is an experienced educator and leader, beginning his career in youth development in Thailand as part of Colorado’s Governor's Youth Leader Program and serving in the Peace Corps in Nepal. With over 20 years of teaching and administrative experience in Colorado, Texas, Iowa, and Oregon, he has taught Humanities, Social Studies, and Leadership. Currently the Executive Director of High Schools in the Hillsboro School District, David oversees high schools, alternative programs, and works alongside other district leaders on initiatives like CTE pathways and equity work. His dedication to education and community collaboration makes him a respected leader in Oregon’s education system.

Languages: English / Spanish

Delfina Andrade is a passionate advocate for equity and justice, dedicated to uplifting Oregon's Spanish-speaking community. As a staff member at Unite Oregon, she amplifies the voices of underrepresented communities. In her role as a community health worker, Delfina connects families with vital services, fostering healthier lives. She also serves as Vice President of the Community Alliance of Tenants (CAT) board, where she advocates for housing justice and tenant rights. Delfina’s unwavering commitment to community empowerment and building inclusive networks makes her a vital leader in advancing social change and equity across Oregon.

Languages: English / French / Chinese / Arabic / Spanish

Derica Theobald is a freshman at Lincoln High School with a deep commitment to community service. Growing up in Oregon, she embraces her multicultural heritage—her mother is a first-generation immigrant, while her father’s ancestors trace back to the Mayflower. Derica dedicates hundreds of hours each year to volunteering with organizations such as Transition Projects, the Oregon Chinese Coalition, and the Oregon Elks. Beyond her service and studies, she enjoys cooking, baking, dancing, speech and debate, face painting, and connecting with friends.

Languages: English / Moundang / Guizigua / Fulani / French

Eugenie Adamah-Tassah, originally from Cameroon, is a visionary advocate committed to uplifting marginalized communities. Holding a Master's in Global Development and Justice from Multnomah University, she actively drives initiatives that foster equity and opportunity. Through her work with Unite Oregon, Eugenie focuses on small business development and childcare support, empowering entrepreneurs and families to thrive. She is deeply trusted within the community for her ability to address concerns and build meaningful connections. Guided by a vision of justice and economic liberation, Eugenie’s work inspires resilience and paves the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future.

Languages: English / Spanish

Gustavo Gordillo, originally from Mexico City, emigrated to the U.S. in 2019, seeking better opportunities for his family. His passion for equity and inclusion grew during the pandemic, leading him to support Latino entrepreneurs and economic empowerment. He has played key roles in initiatives like the Business Recovery Center, Impact Beaverton, and the City of Beaverton. As Small Business Advisor Manager at Unite Oregon, he empowers childcare businesses for greater equity. Committed to education, he leads Latino PTO Padres Unidos at Mount View, fostering stronger school-community connections and advocating for inclusive, high-quality education for all students.

Languages: English / Arabic

Hannah Alzgal is a dedicated student organizer at Portland State University and an inspiring advocate for reimagining community safety and housing justice. As a Palestinian activist, she champions equity and systemic change by uplifting marginalized voices through love and connection. In her roles as Policy Coordinator and Washington County Chapter Liaison, Hannah bridges grassroots efforts with state-level advocacy, fostering dialogue and building bridges across cultures. Deeply committed to the principles of connection, love, and peace, her leadership guides community-driven solutions that honor diverse perspectives and contribute to creating safer, more just, and united communities.

Languages: English / Ukrainian

Inna Kovtun is a qualified mental health professional and a Director of Health Equity and Culture at DAWN. She is a Ukrainian folklorist, singer, and dancer from Kyiv, now based in Portland. She began learning Ukrainian folk songs from her great-grandmother and later pursued formal studies, earning degrees in choral conducting and folklore. Inna has collected over 1,000 traditional songs and performs with her folk ensemble, Rozhanytsia, preserving and sharing Ukrainian culture worldwide. She has led workshops and performed across the U.S., Canada, and Europe. Since moving to Portland in 2022 after fleeing the Russian invasion, Inna has been actively involved in local initiatives promoting Ukrainian culture and supporting Ukraine.

Languages: English

Je, Organizing Director with Unite Oregon, is a dedicated advocate for healing justice and community empowerment. With deep experience in organizing, equitable facilitation, and systems change leadership, Je uplifts marginalized voices through collective action. Their commitment to healing and well-being extends into volunteer work in counseling and mental health support. Passionate about decolonization and abolitionist values, Je works to create transformative change that advances justice and equity.

Languages: English / Spanish

Jean, a white-facing Latina, has spent over 20 years advocating for equity and supporting underserved communities. Inspired by the strong women in her family—her tia Adela, mother Elisa, and great-grandmother Francisca—she honors their sacrifices through her work. Committed to diversity, inclusion, and accessibility, Jean ensures all voices are heard. She is privileged to serve on the Affordable Housing team at the City of Beaverton, where she continues to advance equity and inclusion. Her dedication to creating inclusive spaces remains the driving force behind her career in public service.

Languages: English / Tagalog

Joe Cantrell, a Cherokee photographer and educator, has lived in Oregon for 30 years. A Navy veteran with two Vietnam tours, he spent 15 years in Southeast Asia as a photojournalist. His work spans photography, installation art, and music, reflecting Cherokee heritage and exploring identity and memory. Cantrell has taught at the Oregon College of Art and Craft and the Pacific Northwest College of Art. Now retired, he continues creating art and engaging with the community, inspiring others through his dedication to fostering creativity. Cantrell remains a respected figure in Oregon's arts community.

Languages: English / Spanish / Nahuatl

Jonathan "Johnny" Martinez is a traditional Aztec dancer who began his artistic journey with Mexican Ballet Folklórico in Los Angeles. In 2007, he transitioned to Danza Azteca, studying under maestro Willan Cervantes. In 2012, he founded Mitotiliztli Tezkatlipoka (or "Mito Tezka" for short), which translates to “Dancing with Consciousness” in English. This group focuses on promoting cultural and social awareness through performances that blend storytelling with sacred traditions, such as invoking the four cardinal directions.

As a second-generation Mexican-American, Martinez is deeply connected to Mexico’s pre-Hispanic roots. His work aims to make indigenous heritage accessible, creating inclusive spaces where audiences can engage with Mexico’s rich culture through dance, ritual, and drumming.

Languages: English / Spanish

Juan Carlos Garcia began his professional journey in photography ten years ago, drawing inspiration from his peers in Los Angeles to capture the city's vibrant culture. His passion for travel and exploration has taken him to various countries, where he has documented diverse cityscapes and landscapes. As his focus shifted to photojournalism, Juan captured political rallies and historic moments in the making. His work has been featured in local media, company websites, and world-record breaking projects. With academic studies in anthropology and political science, he brings a thoughtful perspective to his craft. Beyond photography, Juan is recognized for his deep spirituality, gentle nature, and creative pursuits in music—qualities that underscore his commitment to helping others discover the art within themselves and in everyday life.

Languages: English / Spanish

Juan Pedro, a Hillsboro native, is a community organizer, soccer coach, and future business owner in Washington County. Working with Unite Oregon on the TV Highway Equitable Development Strategy, he ensures historically excluded communities have a voice in decision-making. A first-generation Mexican-American, Juan Pedro is passionate about immigration reform, affordable housing, and social justice. In his free time, he enjoys family, cooking, and sports. He believes in the power of community solidarity to build resilience and healing.

Languages: English / Spanish / Swedish / Norwegian / Danish

 Judith Andersson has a background in social entrepreneurship with experience working with diverse communities in East Africa and Europe. Since immigrating to the U.S. in 2012, she has been deeply involved in community-driven initiatives focused on literacy, civic engagement, and financial education for people of all backgrounds. Passionate about fostering inclusion and empowerment, Judith works to create opportunities that strengthen communities and promote lifelong learning. Her dedication to social impact is driven by a belief in the power of education and collaboration to build a more just and connected world.

Languages: English / Italian

Kim Stafford is Emeritus Professor at Lewis and Clark College in Oregon. He writes, teaches, and travels to raise the human spirit through poetry. In 1986, he founded the Northwest Writing Institute, and he has published a dozen books of poetry and prose, including The Muses Among Us: Eloquent Listening and Other Pleasures of the Writer’s Craft and 100 Tricks Every Boy Can Do: How My Brother Disappeared. His most recent book is the poetry collection As the Sky Begins to Change (Red Hen Press, 2024). He has taught writing in dozens of schools and community centers, and in Scotland, Italy, Mexico, and Bhutan. In 2018 he was named Oregon’s 9th Poet Laureate for a two-year term.

Languages: English / Nepali

Laxman Darlamee is an IT professional and entrepreneur based in Oregon. He has served as Vice President of the Nepali Association of Oregon from 2021 to 2023 and as President of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) Oregon Chapter. In 2023, he was elected as a Board Director of NRNA-NCC-USA and currently chairs the Help Desk Task Force. His commitment to fostering cultural connections and supporting the Nepali community in Oregon is evident through his active involvement in various organizations and initiatives. At the Multicultural Celebration for Connection, Love, and Peace, Laxman brings his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to community service, inspiring others to build a more inclusive and harmonious society.

Languages: English / Spanish (learning)

Marcus Ford is a passionate community advocate dedicated to equity, inclusion, and advocacy. As the City of Hillsboro’s Community Engagement Manager, he works to address disparities and strengthen community involvement. Marcus builds relationships with marginalized communities to help ensure their voices inform policy and decision-making. Guided by a commitment to public service, collaboration, and collective action, Marcus strives to foster positive change and build a more inclusive society for all community members.

Languages: English / Hebrew / Russian

Mark Avsker was born to a family of Holocaust survivors, in Riga, Latvia during the Soviet era and raised in Israel, experiencing firsthand the complexities of human conflict and resilience. An engineer at Intel, he has traveled across the globe for work, living in Japan, Pennsylvania, and, for the past decade, Portland. Mark’s passion for history and its impact on human relations informs his understanding of the challenges posed by war and the universal quest for peace. Drawing on his personal experiences and reflections on the human condition, he is an advocate for reconciliation and sustainable peace worldwide, striving to bridge divides and foster unity. 

Languages: English / Arabic / Spanish

Maya Shaker is the Community Outreach and Engagement Specialist at The Greater Middle Eastern Center, where she dedicates her passion and expertise to supporting immigrants and refugees within the community. With a deep commitment to fostering inclusion and empowerment, Maya works to bridge gaps, build relationships, and create opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds. Her work is driven by a genuine belief in the transformative power of community connection and support, ensuring that each person’s voice is heard and valued. Maya is proud to be half Syrian and half Salvadorian, drawing on her own rich cultural heritage to strengthen her work and deepen her understanding of the challenges faced by the communities she serves.

Languages: English / Vietnamese / Spanish

Misty is a second-generation refugee, born in the U.S. to a Vietnamese refugee. She is deeply committed to supporting immigrant and refugee families, advocating for culturally specific services that promote equity. Misty joined the Office of Immigrant and Refugee Advancement (OIRA) in January 2024 as the Community Engagement Manager, bringing extensive experience from her work with ODHS Self-Sufficiency Programs (SSP). Since beginning her career with ODHS in 2002, she has held various roles, most recently serving as Lead Analyst for the SSP Refugee Program. Misty is dedicated to bridging communities and government agencies while uplifting immigrant and refugee voices.

Languages: English / Arabic

Mohammad Bader serves as the Director of the Department of County Human Services (DCHS) for Multnomah County. He has been with the county since 1996, holding various leadership roles, including Director of the Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Division and Interim Deputy Director. In February 2020, he was appointed as the Interim Director of DCHS and later became the permanent Director. Bader holds a Master of Science in Counseling (1991) and a Master of Science in Education (1988). Under his leadership, DCHS focuses on advancing equity, ensuring high-quality program delivery, and maintaining accountability and transparency in serving the community. 

Languages: English / Arabic / French

Mouna Jbali serves as the Site Manager at the Greater Middle East Center (GMEC) of the Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization (IRCO) in Beaverton, Oregon. In this role, she is dedicated to empowering and supporting communities from the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia residing in Oregon and Southwest Washington. Mouna has been instrumental in organizing cultural events, conducting community needs assessments, and fostering connections among diverse groups. Her commitment to community development is evident through her active participation in initiatives aimed at enhancing the well-being and integration of immigrant and refugee populations.

Languages: English / Arabic

Muwafaq is a dedicated Iraqi-American community leader and advocate whose journey as a refugee has inspired many. After facing immense challenges and taking a leap of faith to start anew in the U.S., he has become a pillar of strength and wisdom in his community. Known for his kindness and passion, Muwafaq has tirelessly shared his story through public media and testimonies to policymakers, fostering understanding and support for immigrants and refugees in Oregon. As he steps into retirement, Muwafaq’s enduring legacy of compassion, advocacy, and resilience continues to uplift and empower those around him.

Languages: English / Arabic / French

Nadine Elbitar is a Lebanese immigrant, mother of two, and a passionate advocate for justice and positive change. With a Master’s in Sociology and an MBA, she has worked across sectors and cultures, including as an account manager in Lebanon, a cultural consultant, and an Arabic program pioneer in Minneapolis schools. As a healthcare interpreter, she created a workshop to improve cultural competence. In Oregon, she launched a French and culture program in schools and now works as an outreach coordinator for a mental health program at Lutheran Community Services NW, supporting immigrants, refugees, and fostering connection through cultural events.  

Languages: English / Amharic

Nuhamin Eiden (she/they) is the Interim Executive Director at Unite Oregon, where she advocates for justice and builds community power. Originally from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Nuhamin has lived in Portland for over 18 years. With a background in equitable economic development, housing justice, and leadership, she has been instrumental in fostering systemic change. Nuhamin began her journey as a community leader through Unite Oregon's Pan-Immigrant Leadership and Organizing Training (PILOT) program in 2014, and her passion for social equity continues to drive her work to create inclusive spaces and empower marginalized communities.

Languages: English / Thai

Om believes in giving kindness and helping others with positive energy. She is involved as a volunteer in various organizations such as Rotary International, Chamber of Commerce, Newberg Trail committee, Health Insurance Marketplace Advisory Committee.

In 2001, Om founded Chehalem Insurance Associates, LLC, a woman minority owned life and health agency. Her agency motto is “Every day is a sunny day!”  If not traveling, Om can be found on yoga mat, walking around, experimental cooking and find her own way to reduce global warming.

Languages: English / Thai / Lao

Piyawee Ruenjinda is a Thai-American community leader and advocate dedicated to immigrant and refugee rights, language access, and social justice. With a background in healthcare and legal interpretation, she works to bridge language and cultural barriers, ensuring equitable access to essential services for diverse communities.

An active member of Unite Oregon since 2018, Piyawee has been involved in the Inclusive Housing and Beaverton Organizing and Leadership Development programs. She also co-translated the A Proclamation for Peace project, promoting love, connection, and cross-cultural understanding. Through her work, she continues to build inclusive communities where everyone has a voice and equal opportunities.

Languages: English / Tamil / Hindi

Prabu Muruganantham is a Tamil filmmaker and director from Tamil Nadu, India, now based in Portland, Oregon. Growing up in a small farming village, he developed a passion for storytelling inspired by literature, philosophy, and culture. Since immigrating in 2014, Prabu has created films that explore identity, culture, and the human experience, using his craft to inspire empathy and social change. He also serves on the board of Open Hearts Open Minds, a nonprofit promoting healing through art for incarcerated individuals. Prabu’s dedication to art and community makes him a vital voice in the Portland arts scene.

Languages: English / Dari

Sabrina Ibrahimkhail is the founder and executive director of the Afghan Women’s Empowerment Organization in the United States. With extensive experience in nonprofit leadership and an MBA, she has dedicated her career to advancing women’s rights, with a particular focus on education, healthcare, and the prevention of forced marriage among Afghan women. Prior to relocating to the United States, Ms. Ibrahimkhail was a leading women’s rights advocate in Afghanistan, spearheading initiatives that provided critical support to vulnerable communities. She continues her advocacy through community engagement, cultural programming, and literary initiatives. In addition to her professional work, she holds a second-degree black belt (Dan 2) in karate and has a strong academic interest in philosophy and history, using these disciplines to foster meaningful dialogue and social change.

Languages: English / Kurdish

Shara Noori, a Kurdish community leader from Northern Iraq, is a Community Outreach Coordinator and Case Manager at Lutheran Community Services Northwest. She recently completed a 5-year term with IRCO’s Greater Middle East Center Advisory Council and serves on the THPRD Equity and Engagement Advisory Committee. With a passion for community building, Shara works to reduce mental health stigma, empower women and youth, and foster belonging through love, peace, and meaningful connections. A former member of Beaverton’s Diversity Advisory Board, she is dedicated to ensuring diverse communities have access to resources and opportunities for growth and well-being. 

Languages: English / Mandarin

Sophia Xiao-fan Austrins is an artist and Architect who advocates for design justice, ensuring marginalized communities have a voice in shaping their built environment. As a Director at Colloqate Design, a nonprofit focused on racial, social, and cultural justice in architecture, Sophia promotes collaboration and inclusion. She is passionate about community-driven projects and works to inspire larger clients to better serve historically excluded groups. As an integral part of her work, Sophia uses art as a medium for collective healing, facilitating community gathering to process trauma and create collective care and joy through co-creation.

Languages: English / Lao

Soumountha (Sam) Sythavongsa Bessas is an English Language Development teacher at Portland Public Schools.  In addition to teaching, she also translates and interprets, and serves as an advisory board member with the Pacific Islander & Asian Family Center (PIAFC). Sam received her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Brigham Young University, and an ESOL Endorsement from Portland State University. She enjoys learning, spending time with family and friends, being out in nature, and taking pictures. A former refugee from Laos, Sam is passionate about assisting individuals who cross her path to become self-sufficient.

Languages: English / Urdu / Hindi

Syed Qasim is a dedicated community advocate and active parent residing in Beaverton, Oregon for the past fifteen years. Originally from Karachi, Pakistan, he moved to the United States nearly 25 years ago and earned his degree from Portland State University. Professionally, Syed serves as a Technical Consultant at a Fortune 100 company, guiding organizations through technological advancements. His civic engagement includes serving as co-chair of the Beaverton Climate Action Task Force, where he has influenced local environmental policies. Syed is also a candidate for the Beaverton School District Board, Zone 5, aiming to foster connection, love, and peace within the educational community.

Languages: English / Lao / Thai

Toc is a 1.5 generation refugee from Laos. Her work is centered on advocating for communities impacted by inequitable systems and structures of oppression. Having served as a commissioner on the Oregon Commission on Asian Pacific Islander Affairs, a council member on the Governor’s Behavioral Health Advisory Council, and a council member on the Governor’s Racial Justice Council, she had the opportunity to advise, influence, and shape statewide policy development and improvements. Toc previously served as the Director of Oregon’s Office of Immigrant and Refugee Advancement and has held key roles, including Director of Refugee Resettlement at Catholic Charities and Director of Community Health at Health Share of Oregon. As the founder of Sabaii Sabaii Consulting, she provides education, training, and lectures at local and national conferences on Human Migration, Refugee Resettlement, Language Justice, and Health Equity. Toc holds a Bachelor of Science in Anthropology/Sociology from Eastern Oregon University and a Master of Social Work from the University of Alaska Anchorage.

Languages: English / Tagalog

Toni Valerio, a Filipino-born choreographer, dancer, and interpreter, has taught classical and modern ballet, jazz, and Filipino ethnic dances at various institutions, including PCC Sylvania and Beaverton School District. She has also choreographed and performed for cultural events, including the Rose City Floral Parade and Oregon State Fair, with a focus on Filipino folk dances. Toni is an experienced English-Tagalog interpreter with the OR Certified Interpreter's Network and is working towards her Medical Interpreter’s certification. Passionate about community engagement, Toni also dreams of opening a dance studio and teaching her granddaughter her first ballet class.

Languages: English / Ukrainian

Yulia Brockdorf, co-founder of DAWN, Inc., Oregon 501c3 non-profit supporting Ukraine and Ukrainians.  She leads efforts to support Ukraine through trauma psychotherapy, education, and humanitarian aid. Traveling frequently to Ukraine, she provides front-line psychotherapy and delivers critical medical assistance. Yulia also champions initiatives in Oregon to strengthen ties with Ukraine and promote its resilience through innovation, collaboration, and cultural diplomacy.

Languages: English / Russian / Ukrainian

Yulia Shipulina is a dedicated community outreach coordinator with Lutheran Community Services Northwest, focusing on increasing mental health awareness among diverse populations. Her compassionate efforts address the unique challenges faced by refugees, including trauma and survivor syndrome. Yulia's commitment to fostering cultural connections and promoting peace is evident through her active involvement in organizing multicultural events that celebrate unity and diversity.

Languages: English / Pashto / Dari

Zaher Wahab, professor emeritus, Lewis and Clark College, was born, raised and went to grade school  in a village, then a boarding high school in Kabul. He then received scholarships to get a BA from the American University of Beirut, an MA from Columbia U, an MA and PHD from Stanford. While teaching at Lewis and Clark, he led overseas studies programs to 8 countries and served as Fulbright scholar in 3. Starting in 2002 Zaher served as senior adviser to Afghanistan's ministry of higher education, adjunct at Kabul U and Kabul Education U, and from 2013-2019 as full professor and director of two MA programs at the American University of Afghanistan.