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ABOUT
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Turning Adversity Into Strength

My life has been defined by resilience and determination in the face of significant challenges.

Diagnosed at birth with stage 4 neuroblastoma—a spinal cord tumor—I underwent three surgeries within my first month, defying minimal survival odds. This early battle instilled a foundational resilience that has guided me throughout life.

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The cancer left me paralyzed from the waist down, confining me to a wheelchair during my childhood. I grappled with feelings of inadequacy and exclusion, often placed in special programs separate from my peers. Further, I endured four major back surgeries over 11 years to correct spinal curvature, each presenting significant physical and mental challenges.​

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These experiences fortified my resolve to overcome obstacles. I learned that I possess the mental and physical fortitude to face any future challenges, including potential surgeries.​

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A pivotal moment was my internship at the White House. Despite initial self-doubt, I embraced the opportunity and spent two months in Washington, D.C., 3,000 miles from home. Navigating the city in a wheelchair was daunting, but it led to invaluable connections and personal growth.​

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These experiences have shaped me into a successful entrepreneur, wheelchair tennis champion, and motivational speaker. I am committed to sharing my story to inspire others facing their own challenges.

Experience and Achievements

  • Marketing & Operations: Extensive experience in marketing and operations with top sports, entertainment, and media organizations, including the LA Clippers, LA Galaxy, Special Olympics Southern California, UCLA, FOX Sports, AEG/LA Kings, and NBCUniversal.
     

  • Public Service: Served as a White House intern for the President of the United States, gaining firsthand experience in public policy and civic engagement.
     

  • Nonprofit Leadership: Co-founder of the Center for Global Understanding, a nonprofit based in Washington, D.C., focused on fostering civic participation among underrepresented communities.
     

  • Athletics: Ranked among the Top 10 wheelchair tennis players in the United States and as high as 100 in the world, demonstrating competitive excellence and perseverance.
     

  • Awards & Recognition:

    • Named one of the Ten Outstanding Young Americans (TOYA) in 2009 by the U.S. Junior Chamber of Commerce—the first Muslim American to receive this honor.

    • Selected as one of the Ten Outstanding Young Californians in 2008 by the California Junior Chamber Foundation.
       

  • Education:

    • Bachelor’s degree in Business Economics from UCLA.

    • Master’s degree in Sport Management from California State University, Long Beach.

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