NYMSM JUNIORS (UNIVERSITY CHAPTER)
WHO ARE WE?
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Mentorship and Networking
Fostering relationships through peer-to-peer mentoring with Malawian university students as well as the NYMSM parent branch of professionals across the United States. This is a screengrab of some of the university student mentees at one of our first-ever meetings with NYMSM and NYMSM Junior mentees. At the time, there was a power outage, and despite the time difference, students had to walk in the dark back to their school to join a Zoom call with us—demonstrating their dedication and commitment.
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Cultural Learning
Exploring the culture of Malawi and its diaspora through interactive workshops with mentees, culturally relevant reading, events, and fundraisers that benefit local communities, immersing participants both intellectually and socially
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Experiential Service Trips
Organize trips that allow mentees to immerse themselves in Malawian culture and gain educational experiences firsthand. These trips are designed not only for cultural learning but also for meaningful contribution, giving mentees the opportunity to participate in volunteering and service projects that benefit local communities. Through these experiences, participants develop a deeper understanding of Malawi, strengthen cross-cultural connections, and create lasting impact while learning in a hands-on, immersive environment.
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LUTHANDO MJUWENI
Luthando Naledi Mjuweni serves as the President and Director of the University Chapter of NYMSM, where she leads the chapter’s initiatives. She is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Humanitarian Studies on a Pre-Law track at Fordham University.
Originally from Malawi, Luthando has extensive experience in legal internships, volunteer advocacy with the New York Civil Liberties Union, and mentoring high school and ESL students. She is deeply committed to service, building mentorship pipelines through the New York Malawi Student Mentorship Program and participating in multiple community-based initiatives.
Recognized with honors including first place in a regional Business Law competition, the AAUW Outstanding Student Award, and the Office of the NYS Comptroller Achievement Award, Luthando combines business-minded thinking with service-driven leadership to empower others and foster community growth.
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KAITHLYN SIMS
Kaithlyn Sims is the Vice President of the University Chapter of NYMSM. She is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science with a Pre-Law concentration.
Her background includes volunteer work with organizations dedicated to social progress and the development of underserved communities. Kaithlyn is motivated by the belief that her time, effort, and resources can contribute to a better present and future for those in need. As the daughter of a Panamanian immigrant mother and an African American father, both of whom served over 20 years in the United States military, she draws inspiration from her family’s legacy of service. Choosing a different path, Kaithlyn has dedicated her studies to law, with the goal of advancing justice, empowering marginalized voices, and fostering opportunities for growth through advocacy and mentorship.
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ASMINA MAGAR
Asmina Magar is the Secretary of the University Chapter of NYMSM. She is pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing at Fordham University’s Gabelli School of Business.
Originally from Nepal and raised in Dallas, Asmina brings a global perspective shaped by her diverse experiences. At Fordham, she is building a strong foundation in business strategy and marketing, which she seeks to apply toward social impact initiatives.
She is passionate about supporting and empowering young people, with a particular interest in mentorship and community development. Asmina is especially eager to contribute to NYMSM’s mission by mentoring youth in Malawi, combining her academic background, cultural understanding, and commitment to service to create meaningful impact.
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FIZA DEURA
Fiza is a Pakistani junior at [University Name], majoring in Political Science on the pre-law track and minoring in Islamic Studies. She aspires to pursue a career in immigration law. Fiza is the Social Media Coordinator for NYSM, where she is responsible for all posts, social media engagement, and spreading the word about the club.
She joined NYSM because she is very passionate about helping children, especially those in need. In the past, she worked as a para-professional in Wilton, CT, supporting children with special needs. This was a life-changing experience that made her realize how much she loves tutoring and working with young adults. Fiza is excited to make a change in the lives of children and to share the world of mentoring with those who are interested in this beautiful and rewarding work.
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RYAN FOLEY
Ryan Foley serves as the Director of the University Chapter of NYMSM, where he helps guide the chapter’s programs and initiatives. He is pursuing a Master’s degree in Finance with a concentration in Investment Management.
Originally from Malverne, New York, Ryan completed his undergraduate studies at St. John’s University, where he served as a mentor for two incoming freshmen through the EPIC Mentoring Program. Over the past two years, he has traveled to St. Louis, Missouri, and Johannesburg, South Africa as part of the GO! (Global Outreach) program, engaging in critical service learning that deepened his commitment to underserved communities. Additionally, Ryan has mentored two young athletes through A2A (Athlete to Athlete), supporting them mentally, emotionally, and physically in becoming stronger athletes and well-rounded individuals.
Motivated by a desire to be a consistent positive figure while striving to be 1% better each day, Ryan ultimately aspires to pursue a career in wealth management, helping individuals and families manage their financial futures. Alongside his professional goals, he is dedicated to mentoring and training younger soccer players and plans to create a goalkeeper academy to help the next generation of athletes achieve their dreams.