Class 8 (2009-2011)
Gozel Arazmedova, Turkmenistan
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill – Russian & Eastern European Studies
After graduating from university, Gozel’s interest in assisting those in need began when she accepted a position with the American Red Cross in Turkmenistan. She gained real life experiences during her time with the Red Cross as head of food distribution for tuberculosis patients in Turkmenistan, and more importantly to her personally, through her experiences educating citizens about proper diets and precautionary measures preventing the spread of tuberculosis. In 2002, she began working for the U.S. Embassy as a consular assistant, giving Gozel an opportunity to assist both Turkmen and U.S. citizens in issues ranging from simple travel questions to complex legal issues involving American citizens abroad. Now she is prepared to pursue her plans working the field of improving women’s rights in Turkmenistan. Upon completion of the Rotary Peace Program, Gozel intends to return to Turkmenistan in order to address and improve women’s rights and equality.