WASHINGTON, D.C. – Maham Rahman, a recent graduate of Vassar College and resident of Poughkeepsie, has been accepted into the Peace Corps and will soon embark on a new journey of service abroad. Rahman departs for Fiji on September 5 to begin training as a Community Economic Development Facilitator.
A Vassar Graduate Ready to Serve
Rahman graduated in 2025 from Vassar College with a bachelor’s degree in international studies and economics. With a strong academic background and passion for global development, Rahman sees the Peace Corps as the ideal next step.
“The Peace Corps provides volunteers with an amazing opportunity to experience the diverse ways of life all over the world,” Rahman said. “I’m grateful to dive into economic empowerment programs that value knowledge sharing and inclusion. I’m excited to be a part of participatory development practices and learn from Fiji’s communities. The Peace Corps lays the groundwork for building global relationships and is the perfect next step for me after completing my undergraduate degree.”
What the Role Entails
As a Community Economic Development Facilitator, Rahman will work closely with local organizations in Fiji. The role involves:
-
Strengthening project design and management skills for community-led initiatives.
-
Supporting economic empowerment programs that encourage sustainability and inclusivity.
-
Collaborating with local leaders to build long-term capacity within organizations.
The position emphasizes not only technical skills but also cross-cultural exchange and knowledge sharing.
Family and Local Ties
Rahman is the daughter of Hina and Mujeeb Rahman of Jamaica, New York. Her acceptance into the Peace Corps adds to New York’s long legacy of volunteer service. Currently, 177 New York residents are serving abroad, and since the Peace Corps’ founding in 1961, more than 12,461 New Yorkers have taken part.
A Legacy of Service
Peace Corps volunteers typically serve in host communities for two years, preceded by three months of intensive training. Training includes local language immersion, cultural orientation, and technical preparation tailored to each volunteer’s assignment.
During service, volunteers receive a living stipend and housing, ensuring they can integrate fully into the communities they serve. Beyond their immediate contributions, volunteers gain lifelong benefits, which can include graduate school fellowships, professional development opportunities, and international work experience.
Building Global Connections
The Peace Corps has long emphasized that its mission goes beyond short-term assistance. Volunteers like Rahman help foster mutual understanding between nations, building personal and professional connections that last well beyond their service.
For Rahman, the chance to learn directly from Fijian communities while sharing her own skills represents both a personal milestone and an opportunity to contribute to sustainable development abroad.
Opportunities for Others
The Peace Corps continues to encourage new applicants interested in serving in one of the program’s 60 partner countries worldwide. Individuals drawn to international service, language learning, and cultural exchange can apply online.
More information, including details on benefits, eligibility, and current openings, is available at peacecorps.gov.
Looking Ahead
As Rahman prepares to depart, she carries with her not only her academic background but also the hopes of her family, community, and fellow New Yorkers who have long supported Peace Corps initiatives.
Her service in Fiji will stand as part of a broader tradition of volunteerism that strengthens both local communities abroad and international bonds of friendship.
Leave a Reply