Alumni in Focus: Mohanad Alsaid

GSEHD alumni Mohanad Alsaid, MA ‘23, shares his passion for advancing education and sustainable development in the Middle East and beyond through his non-profit the Alsaid Foundation.

Where did you grow up and how has your background influenced you today?

I grew up in Amman, Jordan, where I was deeply influenced by my upbringing and the challenges faced by my community. From an early age, I actively participated in civic activities, such as supporting refugees and organizing charitable initiatives. The Syrian refugee crisis had a profound impact on me, inspiring me to collect donations and deliver aid to refugee camps. These early experiences instilled in me a strong sense of responsibility and shaped my passion for humanitarian work. My background taught me the importance of resilience, compassion, and the power of collective action to create meaningful change.

Tell us about your current professional role and how it excites you.

I am the founder and CEO of the Alsaid Foundation, an organization dedicated to advancing education, youth empowerment, and sustainable development in the Middle East and beyond. Additionally, I serve as the Assistant Academic Director at Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service, where I lead programs that foster cultural exchange and global understanding among young leaders from around the world.

What excites me most about my work is the opportunity to empower others to achieve their potential and make a lasting impact on their communities. One project I’m particularly passionate about is the Alsaid Foundation's digital library initiative, which aims to make over 13,000 books freely accessible to promote literacy and lifelong learning in underserved areas. This work aligns with my belief that education is the foundation for solving many of the world's challenges, and it drives my commitment to creating equitable opportunities for all.

What accomplishment are you most proud of personally or professionally and why?

​​The accomplishment I am most proud of is founding the Alsaid Foundation. Through the foundation, I also established the Alsaid Forum, a unique initiative that brings together intellectuals, artists, policymakers, and innovators to discuss critical global challenges and foster dialogue. These monthly seminars enrich political and cultural life in Jordan and the Arab world, providing a space for collaboration and forward-thinking ideas.

Another milestone that fills me with pride is the creation of the Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah Humanitarian Award, which honors individuals who exemplify selfless service and dedication to their communities. This award not only commemorates the legacy of Sheikh Sabah but also inspires others to contribute meaningfully to society.

These accomplishments are significant to me because they reflect my commitment to building platforms that empower others, drive impactful change, and celebrate the spirit of giving back.

What is your only-at-GW moment? In other words, what is an experience/opportunity you believe GW provided you access to?

My "only-at-GW" moment was having the opportunity to engage with global leaders and experts directly through events and initiatives at the heart of Washington, D.C. One experience that stood out was collaborating on projects related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) alongside professionals from various international organizations. GW’s unique location and focus on real-world applications allowed me to host and facilitate events with specialists from the Middle East, providing a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration on pressing global issues. The access to such opportunities, combined with the support of GW’s faculty and network, was instrumental in shaping my academic and professional journey.

What is a fun fact about you that you'd like to share?

I’d like to remind the GW community that our shared experiences—whether as students, alumni, or faculty—create a lasting bond that can extend beyond graduation. We all have unique stories and skills to offer, and it’s important to remain connected, support each other, and actively contribute to the growth of the community.

Was there a standout course, professor, or organization from your time as a student that inspired your career path?

Yes, during my time as a student, the standout experience that inspired my career path was my involvement in the International Relations program. Specifically, the courses related to diplomacy, leadership, and conflict resolution really sparked my passion for working in global relations and organizations.                                                 

One professor who left a lasting impact on me was a former diplomat who taught the class on international negotiations. Their real-world experience brought a practical perspective to the theoretical concepts, and it was through these discussions that I realized how much I wanted to work on global initiatives and contribute to solutions for international challenges.

What is a piece of advice you would offer to students seeking to pursue your field of work?

My advice to students pursuing a career in international relations, diplomacy, or nonprofit work would be to stay curious, open-minded, and adaptable. These fields are dynamic and constantly evolving, so it’s essential to be willing to learn from every experience, whether it’s a formal course, a hands-on project, or a conversation with a mentor.

Additionally, networking is key. Build relationships with peers, professors, and professionals in the field—it can open doors to opportunities you might not have expected. I’d also recommend gaining practical experience, whether through internships, volunteer work, or studying abroad.

Lastly, don't be discouraged by setbacks. Working in international relations can sometimes feel like a slow process, but persistence and dedication to the bigger picture can make a huge difference. Keep pushing forward and stay committed to making a positive impact!

How do you give back to the GW community?

I give back to the GW community by staying actively engaged as a member of the alumni network. As the GW Alumni Association Representative for Jordan, I help connect fellow alumni, create opportunities for networking, and organize events that foster community and professional growth.