The latest edition of the PUAN Fortnightly Newsletter is here! Discover inspiring alumni success stories, stay updated on community news, and explore fresh opportunities for academic and professional growth. Whether you’re aiming to reconnect, expand your network, or level up your career, this issue has everything you need to stay in the loop with the dynamic Pakistan-U.S. Alumni Network.
Highlights of PUAN Baltistan Chapter Annual Reunion 2025
The scenic valley of Skardu hosted more than 60 participants, including over 40 U.S. exchange alumni, for the PUAN Baltistan Chapter Reunion at Railsa! The event featured inspiring moments, including remarks by Kelly Ryan, Deputy Director of Public Engagement at the U.S. Embassy Islamabad, who shared his Fulbright journey and praised Baltistan’s dynamic alumni community. Alumni stories of transformation also took center stage, from Maria’s Global UGRAD experience breaking stereotypes, to Dr. Ghulam Raza’s pioneering work in archaeology and resource management, to Afzal Hussain’s journey from mountain adventurer to Skardu-based tech entrepreneur. These stories served as a powerful reminder that PUAN is a lifelong network, fostering collaboration, leadership, and innovation across Pakistan. From cultural exchange to entrepreneurship and cutting-edge technology, the impact of U.S. exchange alumni in Gilgit-Baltistan continues to grow, shaping communities and inspiring future leaders. Hit the play button to see the highlights!
CG Sanders Highlights U.S.–Pakistan Educational Collaboration in Lahore
Stetson Sanders, Consul General in Lahore is building connections with Pakistan’s vibrant academic community! During one of his first visits in Lahore, CG Sanders met with Dr. Jonathan Addleton, Rector of Forman Christian College University (FCCU) and board member of the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP). They discussed FCCU’s long-standing partnership with the U.S. Consulate and the remarkable contributions of U.S. exchange program alumni. He also stopped by Fulbright House to meet education advisors and hear firsthand about the opportunities and challenges Pakistani students face when pursuing higher education in the United States.
Internship Impact: PUAN Alumna Develops SDG Framework for FJWU
As part of the PUAN National Internship Program 2025, UGRAD 2022 alumna Sadia Irfan worked under the mentorship of Fulbrighter Prof. Dr. Bushra Yasmin at Fatima Jinnah Women University (#FJWU) to develop a comprehensive SDGs Mapping Framework. This framework addresses all 17 SDGs, aligning FJWU’s teaching, research, policy, and community engagement with the global sustainability agenda. It also sets the stage for the university’s first Institutional SDG Report, paving the way for national and global SDG rankings. Read more here.
Youth Leadership in Action: Maha Ali Champions Sustainability Through PUAN Internship
YES 2021–22 alumna Maha Ali Siddiqui is making her mark as a young entrepreneur, student leader, and climate advocate. As a part of PUAN National Internship Program 2025, under the mentorship of Marukh Zahir Shah (Developing Next Generation Female Environmentalists alumna), Maha is gaining hands-on exposure to environmental education and policy. She attended a landmark meeting at the Directorate of Higher Education, Peshawar, where the environmental curriculum for government colleges was finalized, and participated in LCOY KPK at Governor House, a powerful youth gathering on climate action. From leading awareness projects to joining the Green Youth Movement Club, Maha is translating her PUAN internship into action for sustainability and youth empowerment in Pakistan. Read more here.
Highlights of PUAN South AJK Annual Reunion 2025
Alumni from the South AJK Chapter gathered for a close, interactive roundtable with Kelly R. Ryan (Deputy Director of Public Engagement, U.S. Embassy Islamabad), joined by team members from the U.S. Embassy Islamabad and USEFP–PUAN. Alumni shared their exchange experiences, personal growth journeys, and professional success stories, sparking ideas for future collaborations to create lasting impact in AJK. This reunion wasn’t just a meeting — it was a celebration of experiences, stories, and the strong U.S.–Pakistan alumni bond. View the video to see the highlights.
Pre-Departure Orientation for 2025 Hubert H. Humphrey Program Fellows
USEFP recently hosted a pre-departure orientation for the 2025 Hubert H. Humphrey Program fellows in Islamabad. Attended by nine fellows from across Pakistan, the PDO acted as a stepping stone as they prepared to begin an enriching journey to the United States. Funded by the U.S. Department of State, the Humphrey Program offers mid-career professionals a unique opportunity to engage in non-degree study and gain invaluable professional experience through collaboration with U.S.-based organizations. Read more here.
Join PUAN-USEFP Team as Monitoring and Evaluation Analyst
The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) is now accepting applications for the position of ‘Monitoring and Evaluation Analyst (PUAN) at Islamabad. If you’re passionate about monitoring, evaluation, and making an impact, this could be the perfect role for you! To learn more and apply, visit: https://www.rozee.pk/job/detail/1667938
Apply for Professional Fellows Program on Governance and Society
The Professional Fellows Program (PFP) on Governance and Society connects rising leaders from India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the United States to strengthen networks, develop leadership skills, and promote mutual understanding on governance and society-related issues. Applicants aged 25–40 with at least two years of experience in fields such as governance, policymaking, public administration, journalism, civic engagement, innovation, or political processes are encouraged to apply. Participants will gain firsthand exposure to U.S. governance systems, engage in cross-cultural dialogue, and contribute to meaningful change in their communities. Application Deadline: August 29, 2025 Apply here: https://airtable.com/appMfckMRQrHombgw/shrR4i4M8GhIjLfdl
Apply for Professional Fellows Program on Economic Empowerment
Make your next move count. If you’re a mid-career professional in business administration, economic development, or entrepreneurship, the South and Central Asia Professional Fellows Program is your gateway to international learning and community leadership. Applications now open:
Send Us Your Recent Publications
At PUAN, we are continually inspired by the incredible work that U.S. exchange alumni have been doing. The dedication and contributions of our alumni are making a significant impact, and we are proud to have you all as part of the Pakistan-U.S. Alumni Network (PUAN). We would love to hear about your recent accomplishments. If you have published an op-ed, journal article, news piece, or any other work in the past three months, please let us know by filling out this quick questionnaire. Additionally, we encourage you to keep us informed of your future publications by emailing us at info@puan.pk. Your continued support and engagement are vital to the success of PUAN, and we are grateful for your contributions. Please note that the compilation of alumni publications is a recurring activity. Therefore, we kindly request that you avoid submitting the same information more than once.
