Maryam was born in Iraq and raised in San Diego. Her journey to the United States started at the age of 8, alongside her immigrant parents, who instilled in her a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and resilience. Now, as a driven student at San Diego State University, set to graduate in 2025 with a degree in Public Health, she is passionate about fostering health equity and empowering marginalized communities. Maryam believes in the transformative power of education and advocacy to create lasting change. As a program assistant at BLCI, she is excited to use her skills and passion to support and uplift individuals, ensuring they have the resources and opportunities needed to thrive.

“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” – Winston Churchill