International Fellows Alumni

Haulianlal Guite is a driven, mid-career officer of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), currently serving as the Commissioner of Food Safety and Drug Control for the Government of Rajasthan, India. In this role, he oversees the regulation of food products, drugs, medical devices, and cosmetics to safeguard public health. With over 13 years of multi-sectoral public service experience across the Indian states of Rajasthan and Manipur, his governance portfolio spans rural/urban development, healthcare, law and order, disaster management, social welfare, local rural/urban governments, and e-governance. Mr. Guite holds a Bachelor's degree in Philosophy (St. Stephen’s College, Delhi University), a Master’s in Sociology (IGNOU), and a Ph.D in Political Science from MNIT, Jaipur. In the last few years his work has focused on AI/IT-centric governance initiatives, leading the development of multiple, award-winning state-level portals for diagnosis/auto-fund multilateral disbursement for silicosis patients - and for real-time management/monitoring of blood supplies, of psychotropic drugs, and of hotels/restaurants for hygiene. His academic and professional interests converge at the intersection of public policy, political theory/philosophy, social issues and civil liberties. As a Humphrey Fellow, he seeks to study the structure and functioning of U.S. local/state governments, explore comparative governance practices, and further his academic research on religion-state relations and the evolving challenges to civil liberties posed by social media and artificial intelligence.

Ardak Kozhatayeva is a senior public policy professional currently serving in the Prime Minister’s Office of the Republic of Kazakhstan, where she works in the Economic Department. In this role, she advances international economic partnerships, supports strategic initiatives, and promotes digital innovation in governance. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Hacettepe University (Turkiye) and a Master’s degree in Public Management from the KDI School of Public Policy and Management (South Korea), where she graduated with distinction. Ardak has nearly 10 years of experience in Kazakhstan’s public service, including senior leadership roles at the Ministries of Digital Development, Innovations and Aerospace Industry, Water Resources and Irrigation. Her portfolio has included digital transformation, international development cooperation, and the design of strategic public policies aligned with global standards. As a Humphrey Fellow, Ardak seeks to strengthen her leadership capacity in international development, expand her expertise in inclusive policy design and institutional reform, and explore innovative, data-driven approaches to global cooperation. She is particularly interested in how technology, international collaboration, and evidence-based policymaking can drive equitable sustainable development. Her long-term vision is to contribute to a more responsive and globally engaged public administration system in Kazakhstan and Central Asia.

Hakim Laafri is the Head of Studies at the National Employment Agency in Algeria. With over 15 years of experience in employment services and labor market development, he oversees the design, coordination, and evaluation of local employment programs aimed at reducing unemployment and enhancing economic inclusion. In this role, he works closely with universities, vocational training institutes, and regional authorities to develop innovative strategies that support job placement, vocational training, and small business creation—particularly for youth, women, and other underrepresented groups. Hakim also contributes to the implementation of national employment reforms and facilitates collaboration among key stakeholders to improve the effectiveness of labor market policies and services. He holds a Master’s degree in Business Management from the University of Tebessa. Through the Humphrey Fellowship, Hakim aims to deepen his expertise in labor market governance, public administration, and inclusive economic development. He intends to apply the knowledge and networks gained through the program to strengthen employment services in Algeria, advance evidence-based policy reform, and promote international cooperation focused on decent work, social inclusion, and sustainable development. 

Fernanda Litvin Villas Bôas is a Strategic Public Policy Analyst at CAPES, Brazil’s federal agency linked to the Ministry of Education. CAPES is responsible for developing and promoting high-quality higher education and teacher training across the country. Fernanda holds a Ph.D. focused on the evaluation of educational programs. With over 16 years of experience, she has been involved in designing, implementing, and improving national initiatives that support K–12 teacher development, with a focus on Brazil’s public education system. She leads program initiatives within the Directorate for Basic Education Teacher Training at CAPES. Fernanda has contributed to major national policy discussions, including the development of Brazil’s National Education Plan and National Graduate Education Plan. Through the Humphrey Fellowship, she aims to gain new perspectives in teacher education and program management, build international partnerships, and advance STEM teacher training policies aligned with Brazil’s education goals, while strengthening leadership skills and exploring innovative strategies to address challenges in public education.

Leah  is a seasoned law enforcement professional serving with Malawi’s premier anti-graft institution, the Anti-Corruption Bureau. As a driven mid-career practitioner, she is deeply committed to public service, with a focus on governance, accountability, and public policy—particularly within the overarching domain of anti-corruption. With over seven years of experience as an Investigator, Leah has played a pivotal role in enhancing investigative management tools, advancing research initiatives, and leading advocacy programs aimed at strengthening institutional integrity. Her work reflects a strategic blend of operational expertise and policy-oriented thinking. Through the Fellowship, Leah seeks to bridge theory and practice in global anti-corruption policy. Her mission is to develop sustainable, multidisciplinary strategies—drawing from legal, psychological, economic, and political perspectives—that yield measurable impact. She envisions a results-based framework to improve investigative efficiency and effectiveness in Malawi and beyond. Leah also aims to deepen her leadership trajectory in public service, refining her supervisory and management capabilities to better serve institutional reform efforts. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education and a Master of Science in Management Studies from the Malawi School of Government.

Ahmed Rashed Alkawari is the Chief of Sessions Secretariat at the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs in Bahrain. In this role, he supports senior government committees by managing policy reviews, overseeing project implementation, and coordinating parliamentary affairs in the Ministry. He began his career in the banking sector before transitioning into public service, holding roles at the Civil Services Bureau and the National Bureau for Revenue, where he focused on international taxation and compliance. In 2020, he was selected for Bahrain’s Prime Minister’s Fellowship Program and served as a supervisor in the National COVID-19 War Room, where he was awarded the Prince Salman Medal for Medical Merit. Ahmed holds a Master of Science in Finance and a Bachelor’s in Banking and Finance from the University of Bahrain. He previously hosted a podcast focused on economic issues and financial literacy in the region. Through the Humphrey Fellowship, Ahmed aims to deepen his expertise in public policy analysis, institutional reform, and communication strategies that support effective and responsive governance.

Rabia Riaz is a Senior Deputy Director in the Human Resources Directorate at the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) and Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), where she has served for 12 years. In this role, she has headed HR for the Project Management Unit and worked in various locations across Pakistan contributing to Personnel Management, Career Development, and strategic HR initiatives that support the efficient operation of Pakistan’s major international airports. These airports serve as vital gateways to the country and contribute substantially to national revenue and employment. Rabia holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and a Master’s in Business Administration. As a Humphrey Fellow, she aims to study the future of HR and learn from public sector HR systems in the United States particularly within government institutions and to strengthen her expertise in policy design, institutional reform and implementation. She intends to apply this knowledge to help drive progressive HR reforms in Pakistan’s evolving aviation sector and make workplaces more equitable across genders. Deeply committed to public service and gender equity, Rabia is passionate about advancing institutional capacity through innovative, inclusive, and people-centered strategies that empower individuals and enhance organizational performance.

Brandon Stewart serves as the Manager of Compliance for the Large Taxpayer Office at Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ), the nation’s principal revenue authority. With over 18 years of experience in public sector leadership, he has played a central role in developing and executing national tax enforcement and compliance strategies. His portfolio includes senior leadership roles, such as Acting Assistant General Manager, where he oversaw operations across multiple jurisdictions and led initiatives to reduce tax arrears and standardize compliance frameworks. Brandon holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Bradford (UK) and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Finance) from Northern Caribbean University (Jamaica). He is a certified Balanced Scorecard Professional and has completed advanced training in tax compliance, leadership, and stakeholder engagement. In addition to his operational expertise, he is actively engaged in institutional capacity-building and has designed and facilitated multi-agency training programs in accounting, financial analysis, and tax administration systems. As a Hubert H. Humphrey Fellow, Brandon aims to deepen his knowledge in strategic reform and international best practices to support the modernization of Jamaica’s tax system and promote transparency, fiscal discipline, and good governance.

Roshan Weerasooriya Patabendige  is the Deputy Director of Consumer Affairs at the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL), the national regulatory body for the electricity industry. He is responsible for addressing consumer grievances, developing regulatory tools, and leading stakeholder engagement initiatives to protect consumer rights and improve service delivery in the utility sector. Roshan holds a Bachelor's degree in Mass Communication from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura in Sri Lanka. He also earned three Master’s degrees: in Mass Communication from the University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, in Communication and Journalism from Mangalore University in India, and in Public Management from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura in Sri Lanka. His academic and professional background bridges media, public policy, and regulatory affairs. Roshan’s goals for the Humphrey Fellowship are to expand his knowledge of U.S. regulatory frameworks, consumer protection mechanisms, and public engagement strategies. He aims to apply these insights to strengthen consumer-oriented policies and regulatory practices in Sri Lanka. Ultimately, he seeks to build a more transparent, accountable, and participatory regulatory environment that safeguards consumer interests and promotes equitable access to essential services.

Huijeong Yeon is a Deputy Director at the Office of the Prime Minister of South Korea, where she has led initiatives in regulatory reform and performance management since 2018. She has played a key role in mediating policy conflicts in emerging technology sectors, including AI, digital platforms, and real estate regulations. In particular, she has contributed to coordinating opinions among diverse stakeholders and government ministries to build balanced and actionable regulatory policies. She earned her Master of Public Administration and a dual Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Agricultural and Resource Economics from Seoul National University. As a Humphrey Fellow, she aims to deepen her understanding of regulatory governance and innovation, particularly in the context of generative AI and algorithmic accountability. She is also interested in learning how the U.S. fosters collaboration between government, academia, and industry to address complex policy challenges. Through the Fellowship, she hopes to exchange best practices and build global networks that support more transparent, adaptive, and inclusive policy systems.

Baba Ahmed Abdul-Rahaman is the Director of the West Mamprusi Municipal Assembly in Ghana. He is responsible for coordinating the design and implementation of Policies and development initiatives in the municipality, ensuring that delivery of municipal services are responsive to the needs and aspirations of communities in the municipality. Ahmed holds a Master’s in Public Administration from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration. Ahmed’s goals for the Humphrey Fellowship are to strengthen his knowledge of US approaches to governance at regional and local levels, as well as expand his expertise in the provision of efficient and effective municipal services. Furthermore, Ahmed sees the Fellowship as an opportunity to deepen his appreciation of governance and decentralization in order that he is able to influence policy decisions for the development of local communities.

Hajar Chakkouri is a Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer in the Moroccan Ministry of Tourism. In this role, she is responsible for the monitoring and evaluation of plans and processes in furthering the country’s tourism industry. Hajar holds a Master’s in Tourism Marketing and Management from the National School of Business and Management. Hajar’s goals for the Humphrey Fellowship are to engage with American experts in the field and gain a firsthand view of how development policies are managed in tourism-focused organizations and to create innovative solutions to further tourism’s contributions to increased revenues and investments, job opportunities and the monitoring and evaluation of such initiatives in Morocco. Overall, Hajar’s vision of her Fellowship is to contribute to the development of a results-based management system, ensuring that the government will improve its effectiveness and accountability in its tourism strategies.

David Felipe Pérez Prieto is a Public Affairs Advisor for the Comptroller General of the Republic of Colombia. He advises the General Comptroller in institutional relations with the Colombian Congress in constitutional accountability, and transparency issues. He is a Professor for Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, teaching Colombian political and decentralization processes, and also teaches at several NGOs. He holds a B.A in Political Science from Javeriana, a M.A in Law from Universidad Nacional de Colombia and certifications in Constitutional Law and Public Finance from Escuela Superior de Administración Pública . During his Humphrey Fellowship, David aims to further develop his expertise through working with US agencies to promote institutional reform and accountability to achieve transparency in all governmental operations. He hopes to expand his knowledge about American political systems, understand their innovations, legal aspects in public policies, and the interaction with its operation for making transparency a public good that empowers citizens.

Lejla Ibranovic-Mulahasanovic is a Portfolio Manager for the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in Bosnia and Herzegovina. She coordinates the multi-donor local governance portfolio, with interventions ranging from public finance management, public infrastructure rehabilitation and service delivery, to innovation ecosystem development, as well as offers guidance on matters of policy to governments and counterparts. Lejla holds a Master’s in Politics and Government in the European Union from the University of London - London School of Economics and Political Science. Throughout her Humphrey Fellowship, she wishes to further develop her professional skills and expertise in the design and implementation of policies and programs that advance democratization processes, generate transformative institutional change, and increase governance performance. Recognizing the importance of strong professional networks, Lejla believes that the Fellowship will enhance her networking skills to help her promote stronger relations between BiH, the United States and to foster interdisciplinary collaborations.

María José Romano Boscarino serves as the Director of Public Policy at the Federalismo y Libertad foundation in Argentina. She is responsible for planning, designing, and promoting a public policy program for the province of Tucumán. Additionally, she serves as Coordinator in the foundation's training area. Previously, she held various public positions, her most recent role being Director of Educational Strategies at the Ministry of Education of the Government of the City of Buenos Aires. She holds a Master's degree in Public Policy from the University Torcuato di Tella. Through the Humphrey Fellowship, María José aims to advance her training in public management and leadership, governance and coalitions, political strategy, deepen her knowledge in specific public policy topics, and foster professional networking. This training will enable her to prepare for advancing her political career and furthering work towards economic and social development in her region.a

Stepan Karamalak is the Head of International Relations Service in the Council of Taraclia District of Moldova. He is responsible for developing relations with neighboring states and fostering integration and ensuring the rights of minority communities. Additionally, he is a Deputy of the World Parliament of Bulgarians to Bulgarians Around the World. Stepan possesses a Master’s in International Relations from the Peoples' Friendship University of Russia and a Doctorate in International Relations and Politology from the University of National and World Economy in Bulgaria. During his Humphrey Fellowship, he plans to study international law in the field of protecting the rights of national minorities, public administration and management. Stepan sees the year as an opportunity to develop his skills in leadership and conflict resolution to prevent conflict on ethnic grounds.

Emmanuel Kwezi Tabaro is the Deputy Director of the LéO AfrIca Institute in Uganda. He is tasked with oversight of the Institute’s programming in Uganda and the wider East African region. Kwezi’s work over the last decade has focused on developing young and emerging leaders in public service. He is a renowned radio talk show host in Uganda where he discusses foreign affairs and domestic politics and regularly contributes to local and regional media publications like The Independent and The East African. Kwezi holds a Bachelor’s in Zoology and Chemistry from Makerere University. Throughout the Humphrey Fellowship, Kwezi aims to advance his expertise in public administration, policy formulation, implementation, and evaluation, as well as policy analysis, strategic management, and open government. He recognizes the value of networking and seeks diverse professional experiences in the United States to broaden his understanding and foster invaluable connections in both public and private institutions.

Sreysrors Ly is a social activist and policy advocate. She holds two bachelor's degrees in Law and International Relations. She has worked extensively with local NGOs, and IOs, to push for policy changes in promoting human rights, transparency, and public health through research, training, and dialogue. Besides her key roles in social work, Sreysrors is a program coordinator at Transparency International Cambodia, where she has exercised her professional work on corruption. She provides legal advice and engages relevant stakeholders in the fight against corruption. Sreysrors has been involved in the education sector, where she was a lecturer at the university and author of Enabling Foreign Investment in Cambodia at New Mandala. Through the Humphrey Fellowship, Sreysors aims to deepen her expertise in public policy analysis. She plans to use the knowledge, skills, and experience gained during the fellowship to make positive changes in her home country.

Seoyoung Park is the Deputy Director of the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family for the Republic of Korea. In her International Cooperation Division, she cooperates with international partners on Women’s empowerment. Seoyoung holds a Master’s of Public Policy from Seoul National University and a BA in Business Administration. She sees the Fellowship as an opportunity to enrich her knowledge in leadership among future generations, including women and to gain practical experience in addressing the needs of her own country, to narrow the gender pay gap, to expand women’s participation in the STEM fields, economic empowerment of women, such as balancing work and family responsibilities. She aims to gain diverse perspectives through connections with U.S. organizations and the global alumni network. Especially, regarding the rapid decline in South Korea's birth rate, she seeks solutions in ways of expanding gender equality and empowering women, aiming to enhance national productivity and competitiveness.

Aashraya Seth is the Founder of Impact91, an NGO based in Lucknow and Happy Periods India, a national non-profit initiative on menstrual equity. He is responsible for designing over a dozen non-profit projects in education, environment and public health, cross-cutting gender. Aashraya’s work has impacted over half-a-million underserved and tribal women and girls. He invented India’s most affordable sustainable period product vending machine. Previously he served as the Global Inclusion Lead at The Queen's Commonwealth Trust, mentoring social entrepreneurs and organizations across the Commonwealth. He holds a Master’s in Information Systems and a Bachelor’s in Science. Aashraya views the Humphrey Fellowship as an exceptional opportunity to learn, act, and engage with a diverse network of global leaders and further educate and upskill himself in the area of gender justice. He aims to expand his expertise in innovative practices of creating awareness of menstrual equity, sexual and reproductive health rights, and empowering girls in STEM.