Young Leaders Initiative

Young Leaders Initiative (YLI)

The Young Leaders Initiative (YLI) is designed to promote civic engagement, leadership, and community among early- to mid-career Iranian American professionals (ages 25–40).

YLI brings together a national network of Naderi Fellows — accomplished individuals committed to uplifting the Iranian American community through service, mentorship, and collaboration.

Firouz Naderi’s legacy is one of visionary leadership, quiet excellence, and a lifelong commitment to expanding opportunity for others. From his pioneering work at NASA to his role as a mentor and champion of Iranian American talent, he embodied the belief that excellence and service go hand in hand. The Naderi Fellows initiative carries forward this spirit, bringing together a new generation of leaders committed not only to professional achievement, but to lifting others as they rise and strengthening the communities they serve.

How It Works

Each YLI chapter begins with a day-long summit featuring influential Iranian American leaders from across disciplines — law, technology, medicine, arts, business, and more. These dynamic gatherings include interactive panels, professional networking, and civic-minded dialogue. Participants are selected as Naderi Fellows, named in honor of the late Dr. Firouz Naderi, a passionate advocate for Iranian American youth

Our Goals

Promote civic leadership and engagement among Iranian American professionals
Build a national, collaborative network of Naderi Fellows
Support career development and mentorship across sectors
Strengthen intergenerational ties in the Iranian American community
Continue Dr. Naderi’s legacy of education, excellence, and service

Nominate a Fellow Form

Please complete the form below to nominate an individual for consideration. Submission of this form does not guarantee participation. Participation is by invitation only and is subject to availability and cohort balance.

Nominee First Name(Required)

Nominee Last Name(Required)

Nominee Age (must be between 25-40)(Required)

Nominee Email Address(Required)

Phone(Required)

Nominee City / State(Required)

Job Title(Required)

LinkedIn Profile

Personal / Other Website

Resume or Bio Upload (PDF Only)

Max. file size: 50 MB.

Short Bio (150-300 Words)(Required)

How has this nominee engaged in civic life or contributed to their community?

How has this nominee demonstrated leadership, initiative, or impact in their field or community?

Nominator Name (Self Nominations are accepted.)

First Last

Nominator Email

How long have you known the nominee?

Relationship to the Nominee

Would you like to host a Young Leaders Summit in your city?

Yes

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Meet Our Alumni

Rooted in Dr. Firouz Naderi’s legacy of service and mentorship, the PAAIA Young Leaders Initiative (YLI) identifies and convenes Iranian American early- to mid-career professionals committed to civic leadership, community service, and strengthening a nationwide network of Naderi Fellows.

Read their reflections below:

Rockefeller Brothers Fund Grant Recipients 2024–2026

Young Leaders Initiative