Who are Emerging Leaders?

 

APF Leadership Council Members at the Board Retreat 2025

Emerging Leaders is a national network of students and young professionals ages 18–22 who are passionate about service, leadership, and strengthening the Pakistani American community. This initiative introduces young changemakers to civic engagement, professional development, and global impact while connecting them to mentors, peers, and opportunities within the American Pakistan Foundation (APF).

Emerging Leaders represents the first step in a lifelong journey with APF — cultivating curiosity, confidence, and commitment to community.

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Purpose & Mission

Emerging Leaders supports APF’s mission by:

  • Introducing young people to civic leadership and public service

  • Building awareness of U.S.–Pakistan relations and diaspora engagement

  • Developing leadership and professional skills through hands-on projects

  • Encouraging community service and social innovation

  • Creating pathways to future APF programs, including fellowships and councils

  • Fostering cross-generational connection with mentors and alumni

APF believes that tomorrow’s leaders must be prepared today — Emerging Leaders is where that preparation begins.

Values

Emerging Leaders is grounded in principles that reflect growth, curiosity, and collaboration:

  • Leadership in Action: Learning by doing

  • Service & Responsibility: Giving back to communities

  • Inclusivity & Identity: Celebrating heritage while embracing diversity

  • Curiosity & Learning: Exploring new ideas and perspectives

  • Integrity & Respect: Engaging thoughtfully and ethically

  • Community First: Building strong networks rooted in shared purpose

Who Should Join

Emerging Leaders is for:

  • Students and early-career professionals ages 18–22

  • Individuals interested in public service, nonprofit work, policy, entrepreneurship, or social impact

  • Those seeking mentorship and skill-building opportunities

  • Young people eager to connect with peers across the Pakistani American diaspora

  • Aspiring leaders ready to make a difference

Whether you are in high school, college, or beginning your professional journey, Emerging Leaders provides a supportive platform to explore your interests and amplify your impact.

Activities & Engagement

Members of Emerging Leaders may participate in:

  • Leadership Workshops & Skill-Building Sessions

  • Service Projects & Community Initiatives

  • Mentorship Circles with APF leaders and professionals

  • Speaker Series & Career Panels

  • Civic Education Programs

  • Cultural Events & Dialogues

  • Collaborative Projects with other APF initiatives

These experiences are designed to be accessible, engaging, and formative — equipping participants with tools they can carry into future leadership roles.

Benefits of Membership

As an Emerging Leader, you will gain:

  • Access to mentors and professional networks

  • Invitations to exclusive APF programs and events

  • Leadership training and career guidance

  • Opportunities to contribute to real-world projects

  • Recognition on APF platforms

  • A lifelong connection to the APF community

Emerging Leaders is more than a program — it is a launchpad for purpose-driven leadership.

Membership Criteria

Emerging Leaders are selected based on:

  • Alignment with APF’s mission and values

  • Demonstrated interest in leadership, service, or community engagement

  • Willingness to participate in program activities

  • Age 18–22

  • Commitment to attending at least 2–3 Emerging Leaders programs annually

Participation is by application and reviewed by APF leadership.

Join Us

Ready to begin your leadership journey with APF?

Apply today to become part of a vibrant community of young changemakers shaping the future of Pakistani American engagement.

Apply Now