Naheed Vadsaria's extraordinary journey illustrates the profound impact that one individual can have on the global stage. Her story is a vibrant tapestry woven with dedication, education, and an unyielding commitment to creating positive change that transcends borders and enriches lives, in addition to serving her country.
LT. Naheed Vadsaria embarks on a partner nationship
Naheed's path began in 2002 when she completed her undergraduate studies in Business Administration and Management Information Systems (MIS) with a focus on French at Northeastern University. Little did she anticipate that her involvement with the International Student Scholar Institute would ignite fervor for international work, shaping her trajectory.
This initial spark ignited a fire within Naheed, propelling her to make a difference. In 2004, she embarked on her graduate studies at the Monterey Institute of International Studies, delving into non-proliferation studies and counterterrorism. Her dedication led her to specialize in areas related to international security and disarmament, particularly focusing on the prevention of weapons of mass destruction. These studies cemented her aspiration to contribute positively to a world facing complex challenges.
Nonetheless, it was Naheed’s association with the Peace Corps that genuinely set her on a transformative path, paving the way for her to join the U.S. Navy in 2018 and then become Lieutenant Vadsaria. Driven by an intrinsic desire to empower and uplift women, she dedicated herself to projects such as the Women's Technology Empowerment Centre. This organization empowers girls to become technology leaders in Nigeria while studying at Johns Hopkins Carey Business School. She did more than teach computer technology and artificial intelligence- she instilled confidence and nurtured aspirations, leaving an indelible mark on young girls.
Mirroring her determination in her advocacy efforts, Naheed’s journey extended beyond education and empowerment. She ventured into uncharted territory, seeking to bridge the divide between civilians and the military. This was not an easy assignment, and she had to deal with the loss of a colleague whose helicopter crashed after it was attacked during a mission.
Through her involvement with the Human Terrain System, she found herself embedded with the US and French military in conflict zones like Afghanistan as a social scientist. Her role went beyond military strategies - she aimed to understand local cultures and dynamics to facilitate a midwifery project, providing teaching aid and humanitarian assistance fostering understanding and cooperation among women. This led her to publish “Tajik Hope, Reflections of Engaging Women in Kapisa Province.” She was awarded the Non-Article 5 NATO Medal, Superior Civilian Award, and French Brigade Ministry of Defense and Veterans Commander Commendation Award for her service in Afghanistan.
Naheed has been a reservist with USINDOPACOM since 2021 in Hawaii. While there, she supported a UN Security Council Resolution [1] in Japan and received the Joint Service Achievement Medal 2022. Prior to this, she supported AFRICAN LION 21, one of the largest military exercises on the continent, and was a recipient of the Joint Service Achievement Medal for her work.
Naheed at the gym for a Muay Thai boxing workout
Navigating the predominantly male military environment posed unique challenges for Naheed. Her determination led her to overcome these hurdles by chairing the Diversity and Inclusion Council for her unit, breaking through barriers, and ultimately enriching her missions with mutual understanding from her colleagues.
Naheed, a true global citizen, navigates a path of meaningful engagement spanning from Hunza, where she taught at the Aga Khan Higher Secondary School for girls, to Gambia and East Africa, advocating for women's empowerment through education and technology. Her collaboration with organizations like the Aga Khan Academy and the US Peace Corps underscores her commitment to gender equality and empowerment.
From her early days assisting international students to her impactful work at the United Nations Department of Disarmament in Geneva and the US Peace Corps, her legacy encapsulates the importance of fostering global understanding and addressing pressing issues.
Naheed enjoys unwavering support from her parents and sister and cheers from her younger brother. Beyond this, she is an ardent Muay Thai boxer, drawing physical strength, mental well-being, and empowerment from this discipline.
When asked about her impending months-long deployment as an active-duty officer, she simply laughed and quipped, "It's classified." As Lieutenant Vadsaria continues her journey, her commitment to education and international cooperation has not only transformed her own life but also the lives of numerous others. Let her journey stand as a poignant reminder that every woman harbors the potential to instigate lasting change, even within the most challenging environments.
On this Veterans Day, we thank all Ismaili and other U.S. veterans for their service to our nation. We also thank their families for their support during their time in service. We also honor Ismaili and all U.S. active duty military for their commitment and contributions. We pray that the souls of fallen service members continue to rest in eternal peace.
