Ahmad Shah Mohibi

Ahmad Shah Mohibi’s path from Afghanistan to public service in the United States has shaped his work in peacebuilding, national security, and community leadership.

Born in Afghanistan during the Soviet withdrawal, Shah grew up amid civil war, landmines, displacement, and Taliban rule. Those experiences gave him an early understanding of how conflict affects families, communities, and institutions, and they continue to inform his commitment to public service.

After the attacks of September 11, Shah began serving alongside U.S. and coalition forces during Operation Enduring Freedom at the age of 16. He later came to the United States through the Special Immigrant Visa program and continued his service as a U.S. federal employee in diplomatic and national-security roles. His work included supporting coordination related to detainee transfer efforts between the U.S. and Afghan governments.

In 2016, Shah founded Rise to Peace, a nonprofit organization focused on peacebuilding, counterterrorism education, and leadership development. The organization works with students, researchers, and emerging professionals around the world to better understand violent extremism, strengthen civic leadership, and support practical approaches to conflict prevention.

During the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021, Shah helped support evacuation and relocation efforts for Americans, Afghan allies, and vulnerable families facing threats from the Taliban. This work reflected the same commitment that has guided much of his career: standing with people in moments of uncertainty and helping connect them to safety, opportunity, and long-term support.

Shah’s work also includes writing, public analysis, and media commentary on Afghanistan, terrorism, extremism, international security, and peacebuilding. His perspectives have appeared in outlets including The Washington Post, CNN, CBS News, MSNBC, FOX News, and Al Jazeera.

Today, Shah continues to lead Rise to Peace and support humanitarian initiatives through the Mohibi Foundation. His work is rooted in service, lived experience, and a belief that leadership is measured by responsibility to others.