Mohammad Shadab embarked on a transformative journey within the AFS community that profoundly impacted both his personal growth and his community. His AFS adventure began with an exchange program in the USA, challenging his comfort zone and nurturing adaptability. Upon returning to India, he became actively involved in promoting cultural exchange and understanding at both local and national levels. Mohammad dedicated his time to volunteering for AFS India and played a crucial role in recruiting for various sponsored programs. He also facilitated national-level orientations and engaged in community service projects.
Mohammad’s commitment extended beyond AFS, where he initiated the non-profit project “Girls, Say YES,” supporting women’s empowerment and girls’ education. He organized cultural events and workshops, spreading intercultural awareness, and encouraged volunteerism. His efforts enriched the community and demonstrated his dedication to the AFS mission. Mohammad’s contributions in areas like environmental protection, climate action, and education have earned him recognition and accolades, including serving “Maximum hours of volunteer community service” according to Asia & India Books of Records.
Mohammad Shadab’s impact extends across AFS’s three Impact Goals. He promoted global competence through cross-cultural events and language learning, actively advocated for inclusion and equity through his “Girls, Say YES” project, and embodied active global citizenship through climate action and environmental initiatives. His dedication and innovative projects align perfectly with AFS’s mission of creating a more just and peaceful world through intercultural exchange and youth empowerment. Mohammad is truly an exemplary AFS volunteer deserving of the AFS Young Award.
“Mohammad’s creative contributions transcend boundaries, fostering global competence, inclusion, and active global citizenship within his community. His innovative projects and tireless dedication are driving positive change, aligning perfectly with AFS’s mission to create a more just and peaceful world through intercultural exchange and youth empowerment.”
—Diya Badgel, Partner Director, AFS India
Young AFS Volunteer Award
Volunteerism has an important role to play in harnessing the potential of young people, and in AFS, young volunteers make fundamental contributions to promote intercultural understanding. Established in 2015, the Young AFS Volunteer Award for Outstanding Service recognizes AFS volunteers under the age of 30 whose exceptional contributions to the organization have made a difference in advancing the mission and goals of AFS.
In 2023, winners of the Young AFS Volunteer Award winners were Mohammad Shadab, AFS India and Juan Sebastián Porras Chaves, AFS Colombia.