Afghan-American Community Organization

In 2024, AACO hosted its 9th annual Afghan-American Conference (AAC) in San Diego, CA, attracting over 500 participants from 28 states and 6 countries. The 2024 conference featured 54 sessions led by 110 expert facilitators, covering topics such as civic engagement, identity, and professional development. A pre/post survey conducted by Dr. Nura Sediqe demonstrated the conference's impact, showing a 71% increase in participants' reported sense of belonging. The event provided a safe space for candid dialogue, professional development, and relationship-building across various learning blocks. An addition to the 2024 program was the inaugural Alumni Summit, which included service activities that provided school supplies and footwear to newly arrived Afghan families, demonstrating the organization's commitment to supporting recent immigrants within the diaspora community. Since 2015, AACO has engaged thousands of participants, serving as a valuable forum for empowering Afghan-Americans and addressing pressing issues within the diaspora community. The conference continues to foster an inclusive environment and facilitate meaningful connections across the Afghan-American diaspora. Beyond the annual conference, AACO continues to organize regional events throughout the year, engaging community members nationwide.

In 2024, AACO continued its scholarship program, awarding $30,000 in scholarships to 10 Afghan-American students, helping to subsidize their college tuition and educational expenses. The program has now awarded more than $350,000 to over 70 students since its inception. The program addresses average tuition balances of $43,000 per student while expanding academic and professional development opportunities, including 18 dedicated sessions and a 1,500-member professional network (AAConnect). These efforts focus on empowering the next generation of Afghan-Americans, with special emphasis on supporting women in the community and students pursuing STEM fields.