Who are Friends of APF?

 

APF LC members and wider community at a mixer in NYC

Friends of APF is a community of passionate individuals aged 40 and above who are committed to advancing the mission of the American Pakistan Foundation (APF) — empowering the Pakistani American community, strengthening ties between the United States and Pakistan, and promoting civic engagement, cultural understanding, and sustained impact. APF welcomes Friends of APF who bring a lifetime of experience, wisdom, and professional insight to help shape our programs, partnerships, and outreach.

Apply now
 
 
 

Purpose & Mission

Friends of APF support APF’s work by:

  • Sharing expertise with APF programs, initiatives, and community partners

  • Advising on strategic priorities that deepen APF’s impact across generations

  • Mentoring next-generation leaders in their careers, civic engagement, and public service

  • Strengthening community connections through dialogue, collaboration, and cultural exchange

  • Championing civic participation and advocacy within the broader diaspora

  • Supporting research, policy literacy, and storytelling on issues affecting Pakistani Americans and U.S.–Pakistan relations

APF’s mission is to build bridges, open minds, and empower communities — and Friends of APF plays a key role in advancing that mission.

 

Values

Friends of APF is guided by principles that reflect both lifelong experience and community commitment:

  • Intergenerational Collaboration: Fostering meaningful exchange between established professionals and emerging leaders

  • Respectful Dialogue: Encouraging diverse perspectives and civil discourse

  • Cultural Pride & Inclusivity: Honoring heritage while building inclusive spaces across communities

  • Lifelong Learning: Embracing opportunities to both teach and continue learning

  • Service-Driven Impact: Leveraging time, expertise, and networks for the public good

Just as the APF Leadership Council emphasizes diversity and collective action, Friends of APF values experience as a force for community empowerment.

Who Should Join

Friends of APF is designed for:

  • Professionals, entrepreneurs, and civic leaders age 40+

  • Individuals with a passion for community development, mentorship, and public service

  • Supporters of APF’s mission who want to deepen their engagement

  • Those seeking to contribute their expertise to high-impact initiatives

Whether you are in academia, business, government, nonprofit leadership, or other fields, Friends of APF offers a platform to contribute meaningfully.

Activities & Engagement

Members of Friends of APF can participate in:

  • Advisory Roundtables & Strategy Sessions

  • Mentorship Circles connecting veterans with rising leaders

  • Signature APF Events (including the APF Annual Retreat and special forums)

  • Thought Leadership Writing for APF platforms

  • Cultural & Civic Dialogues addressing diaspora priorities

  • Collaborative Projects with APF programs and partners

These activities mirror the opportunities offered to the Leadership Council but are tailored for seasoned supporters who can influence at the strategic level.

Benefits of Membership

As a Friend of APF, you will receive:

  • Invitations to exclusive events and dialogues

  • Opportunities to network with APF leadership and partners

  • Recognition on APF platforms

  • A space to help shape APF’s future direction

  • A community of peers dedicated to lasting impact

Friends of APF fosters a collaborative environment where experience meets purpose.

Membership Criteria

APF selects Friends of APF based on:

  • A commitment to APF’s mission and values

  • Dedication to community engagement and mentorship

  • Willingness to contribute expertise to APF programs

  • Age 40 or older

  • Participation in at least 1–2 APF events annually

  • Commitment to annual dues

Membership is by application and reviewed by APF leadership.

Apply Now