Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working on initiatives that strengthened relationships between the U.S. and Pakistan. These efforts also created meaningful opportunities for young people in the Pakistani-American community. One project I’m particularly proud of is revitalizing the Congressional Pakistan Caucus and founding the Congressional Pakistan Caucus Foundation (CPCF).
Revitalizing the Congressional Pakistan Caucus
When I first joined the Congressional Pakistan Caucus, it had only about 20 members. Through dedicated effort and relationship-building, I helped expand the Caucus to over 60 bipartisan Congressional Representatives and Senators. This expansion was crucial because it ensured that the issues facing Pakistan and the Pakistani-American community were heard by a broader group of policymakers.
A key moment in this journey occurred when I organized a significant event during the visit of Pakistan’s newly elected Prime Minister to meet with President Trump. This event brought U.S. lawmakers and the Prime Minister together, fostering meaningful dialogue and strengthening U.S.-Pakistan relations. Both sides discussed critical issues, including trade, security, and regional cooperation.
Founding the Congressional Pakistan Caucus Foundation (CPCF)
Another exciting chapter in my journey was founding the Congressional Pakistan Caucus Foundation (CPCF). The mission of CPCF is both simple and powerful: to provide Pakistani-American youth with the tools and opportunities they need to become active participants in political and civic affairs. The foundation connects young people to resources such as scholarships, internships, and job opportunities. These resources help them engage in the political process while fostering cross-cultural exchanges of ideas.
By empowering Pakistani-American youth with these opportunities, CPCF plays a vital role in shaping the next generation of leaders. These leaders will continue bridging the gap between the U.S. and Pakistan. The foundation not only promotes the growth of the Pakistani-American community but also helps build understanding and collaboration between cultures. This is essential in today’s interconnected world.
The Power of Engagement
The work I’ve done with the Congressional Pakistan Caucus and CPCF has been incredibly fulfilling. It reminds me that engagement—whether it’s with lawmakers, community leaders, or youth—is the key to creating long-lasting change. By strengthening ties between the U.S. and Pakistan and providing young people with the tools to succeed, we’re building a brighter, more collaborative future for everyone.
Through these efforts, I’ve seen firsthand how unity and engagement can create meaningful change. As we continue to grow these initiatives, I feel more hopeful than ever about the future of U.S.-Pakistan relations and the Pakistani-American community.
