Sumaya Tasnim is originally from Bangladesh, where she completed both her bachelor's and master's degrees in international relations before moving to the United States. She is currently pursuing her second master's degree in international affairs at Middle Tennessee State University, where she also serves as a Graduate Teaching Assistant.
Her academic and professional interests center on global governance, development, and international security. Prior to beginning her studies in the U.S., Sumaya worked as a Project Officer at a nonprofit organization in Bangladesh, collaborating closely with government ministries, donors and international partners.
What was the most rewarding element of the Nonprofit Leadership & Advocacy Seminar?
The most meaningful part of the program was hearing directly from nonprofit leaders about their real experiences in advocacy, community engagement, and organizational leadership. The discussions on leadership, communication, and mission-driven work felt very relevant to the kind of roles I hope to pursue. Listening to professionals explain how they navigate challenges, build partnerships, and stay accountable to the communities they serve gave me a practical and human understanding of the nonprofit sector. It was inspiring and helped me connect my international affairs background to real-world leadership and advocacy practice.
How will you apply this experience to the next steps in your professional career?
I plan to apply this experience by refining my communication, collaboration, and leadership approach in both my academic and professional work.
This seminar helped deepen that foundation by giving me a broader perspective on advocacy, fundraising, organizational strategy, and community engagement in the U.S. context. It enhanced my understanding of how nonprofits build partnerships and translate their mission into action, which will support my long-term goals in policy, development, and organizational leadership.
Was there a particular moment, discussion, or speaker that really stood out to you?
The session that impacted me the most was led by Steven Bennett, Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer at the Council on Foreign Relations. His discussion on succession planning was incredibly inspiring. Even though the topic sounds very technical, the way he spoke about leadership, responsibility, and long-term vision felt deeply personal.
What resonated with me most was how honestly he described overcoming institutional challenges and navigating moments of uncertainty. As he shared stories about guiding organizations through transitions, supporting teams during change, and staying committed to the mission even when things are difficult, I found myself relating to everything he said. His emphasis on humility, preparation, and purpose reminded me of the values I tried to uphold in my own work. Listening to him felt like receiving guidance from someone who truly understands the realities of nonprofit work. His session not only inspired me but also helped me picture the type of grounded, thoughtful leader I hope to become.
Would you recommend this program to others?
Yes, definitely! The seminar offered a rare opportunity to learn directly from experienced leaders who were open, honest, and genuinely invested in guiding the next generation of public service professionals. The sessions went far beyond theory; everything felt practical, relatable, and grounded in real experiences.
For someone like me, who has worked in a nonprofit organization and is now studying international affairs, the program helped bridge my experience with new perspectives from the U.S. nonprofit sector. It gave me tools, confidence, and clarity about the kind of leader I want to be.
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