The Foundation Director

Her university education was completed in India but she was born and raised in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Her father was passionate about educating his children and moved the family several times to make sure they received the best he could find. 

After earning a bachelor’s degree, Noor came back home to Kabul and was appointed Director of the International Legal Foundation, theilf.org  From their website: the ILF was established in Afghanistan in 2003 as the country emerged from decades of conflict. The ILF was the first provider of legal aid services to Afghans accused of crimes, regardless of their ethnicity, gender, age, or political affiliation. 

Clearly, this work was not going to be tolerated by the Taliban after their takeover in 2021 but Noor stayed in her office, dressing in the Taliban-mandated clothing, continuing to work for ILF’s clients, particularly the women. She managed to stay alive, although not without threats of violence, including having six guns pointed right at her. She shouted back at them! And miraculously lived to tell about it. 

Through her contacts with ILF around the world, Noor found her way to IU Bloomington. Making her first trip to the U.S. and without understanding much about the degree program someone else placed her in, she jumped in not just to survive but to thrive. She earned one of the most challenging and prestigious masters degrees the university offers. 

Today, she is gainfully employed and paying tax, enjoying her life in California, and continuing to show her courage and strength to everyone she meets.