Fatema Jaffer

About this Speaker

Initially focused on track and field, Fatema accepted an internship position to teach and train in Kenya. Quickly realizing the systemic problems of the Kenyan education system, Fatema joined the nonprofit organization Cross World Africa, Inc. and began her career as an advocate for minorities and immigrants. Returning to the U.S., she petitioned the million-dollar company, Sodexo, Inc., to provide Halal, Kosher, and gluten-free options for the students of Florida State University. After completing her Bachelor of Science, she joined Teach For America and taught in her hometown, Orlando, FL., for two years. As an educator, Fatema lobbied her senators, wrote op-eds, organized community members, and fundraised over $60,000 for immigration and education initiatives. As a first-generation U.S. Citizen, Fatema views education as the foundation for equitable policy. Fatema currently attends Harvard Law School in hopes to continue her advocacy by practicing litigation — eventually influencing policy through public office.