Maria Akbar is our UGRAD program alumna (Fall 2018). It was her first international visit and this exchange program opened new opportunities for Maria. It empowered her and broadened her imagination. She made new friends, took part in community service, and explored all major states of the U.S. “I became able to dream big and I committed to myself that each year I will represent my country internationally,” shared Maria. Her dream turned into reality and in 2019 she visited Turkey as a cultural ambassador. In 2021, she visited Russia to represent Pakistan and in 2022 she is representing Pakistan in the United Kingdom. “I believe this mission to be a cultural ambassador will continue.”

Maria is deeply grateful to PUAN for helping her build a professional relationship through networking events and providing opportunities for volunteerism. She also became part of the Prime Minister’s National Youth Council. Moreover, she served as an Exchange Alumni Islamabad Chapter & PUAN Honorary Counselor for Anti-Harassment.