Abid Shamdeen

Guest Author

Abid Shamdeen (@AbidShamdeen) is the Executive Director of Nadia’s Initiative, a nonprofit organization dedicated to rebuilding communities in crisis and advocating globally for survivors of sexual violence. Shamdeen, who was born and raised in Sinjar, Iraq, is a global development specialist who has dedicated his career to improving the lives of and preventing violence against marginalized communities. In his current role at Nadia’s Initiative, he advocates for victims of the Yazidi Genocide and manages rebuilding and redevelopment projects that have brought aid and assistance to the Sinjar region. He was also a member of the Sinjar Crisis Management Team, where he provides context and feedback to US officials regarding the status of Yazidis in Iraq. Prior to these roles, Abid worked for the United States Army in Iraq as a cultural advisor and translator. He holds a master’s degree in political science from the School of International Service at American University and a bachelor’s degree from Nebraska University, where he also served as an Administrative Assistant at the Nebraska State Legislature.