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Benjamin Loevinsohn

DR. BENJAMIN LOEVINSOHN MD, MPH is a Canadian physician who is a recognized global expert in contracting with CSOs/NGOs for delivering health services. He has written numerous articles on the subject, including in the Lancet and JAMA, and is the author of a book entitled “Performance-Based Contracting for Health Services in Developing Countries – A Toolkit.” He is currently the Director of Immunization Financing and Sustainability at Gavi. Prior to that he was head of Resilient and Sustainable Systems for Health (RSSH) at the Global Fund. Previously he was a cluster leader and lead public health specialist at the World Bank for almost 20 years. Dr. Loevinsohn did his medical training at McMaster University in Canada and studied public health at Harvard University. He is the author of more than 35 peer reviewed articles, books and discussion papers. He was an adjunct professor at Johns Hopkins University. His particular interests are results-based contacting, monitoring and evaluation (M&E), health system strengthening in fragile and conflict-affected settings, and various other types of results-based financing approaches. He has lived for 20 years in Nicaragua, Sudan, the Philippines, and Nigeria and has also done extensive work in 15 other countries, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan. 

Ferozuddin Feroz

Dr. Ferozuddin Feroz, an accomplished figure in the field of healthcare and governance, has a diverse and impactful career spanning various roles. Notably, he served as the Minister of Public Health in Afghanistan from January 2015 to April 2020, where he implemented groundbreaking initiatives such as the Performance-Based Contracting approach and the creation of the National Medicines and Health Products Regulatory Authority. Prior to this, he co-founded and served as Technical Director of the Governance Institute Afghanistan (GIA), contributing to research and evaluation projects aimed at improving healthcare and governance. Additionally, Dr. Feroz has undertaken significant consultancies, including with the World Bank in South Sudan and India. Dr. Feroz's educational background includes an MSc in Health System Management from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and an MBA in Health Management Research from the Indian Institute of Health Management Research. He has also made valuable contributions to the literature, with publications on Afghanistan's health system and essential health services.

Dr. Bashir Hamid holds a Master's in Business Administration in Development Studies from Preston University, Pakistan, and has completed executive education in Public Health Policy and Management from Tulane University, USA. As a medical doctor, he has undertaken diverse roles, notably serving as the Director General for Diseases Prevention and Control in the Ministry of Public Health, Afghanistan. His broad international experience encompasses positions such as Senior Specialist with the World Bank in Afghanistan and the Global Fund, where he specialized in private sector service delivery. Dr. Hamid boasts a robust track record in program management, leadership, and strategic planning, evident through his contributions to various organizations, including the World Bank, the Global Fund, and the Ministry of Public Health in Afghanistan. His accomplishments span leading projects, formulating effective strategies, and playing a crucial role in pandemic preparedness. Recognized for his scholarly publications in peer-reviewed journals, Dr. Hamid has also received accolades for his noteworthy contributions to the fields of public health and nutrition.

Bashir Ahmad Hamid

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Mohammad Ibrahim Shinwari

Dr. Mohammad Ibrahim Shinwari, MD, MBA, is a seasoned freelance consultant specializing in health and education management with extensive experience working with NGOs, the UN, and the government. Beginning his career as a rural clinic physician, he rose to prominence as the Director General and Founder of the Afghanistan Food and Drug Authority (AFDA), where he implemented comprehensive policies and strategic plans, contributing to a significant education reform initiative. Dr. Shinwari holds an MD degree from Kabul Medical University, an Executive MBA in Health Management, a Diploma in Public Health Nutrition, and a Recognition Certificate in Population and Development. His diverse career also includes roles such as Provincial Primary Health Care Manager, Program Officer with UNICEF and UNFPA, and leadership positions in international NGOs, showcasing his dedication to public service. Notably, he served as Deputy Minister and Acting Minister of Education in Afghanistan.

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Zakia Maroof, MD, MPH, MBA, is an experienced public health and nutrition expert with over twenty years of experience in Nutrition (Maternal, Infant and Young Child Nutrition (MIYCN), adolescent Nutrition, Management of Acute Malnutrition, Emergency Response, and project management); and Public Health (Maternal and Child Health). She has worked with UNICEF as Nutrition Specialist, with World Bank as Health Specialist and with different international NGOs as maternal and child health expert. She is a Medical Doctor, and holds master's degree in public health from Georgia State University, GA, USA, and MBA in development studies from Preston University, Pakistan.  Through working in nutrition supplementation to adolescent girls, she has worked with public schools in Afghanistan and managed coordination between health and education sector. 

Zakia Maroof

Shafiq Ahmad Qarizada

With more than 30 years of progressive experience in program management and coordination, Shafiq Ahmad Qarizada has proven success in overseeing substantial donor-funded programs. His extensive career encompasses roles within International Organizations, UN agencies, the World Bank, and Government ministries, highlighting adaptability in multicultural settings and holding prominent senior positions. Proficient in hands-on planning and coordination, he brings substantial expertise in project/program design and implementation, coupled with a thorough understanding of financial, procurement, and HR matters. Displaying a readiness and capability to work under challenging circumstances, in his current capacity as Chief Consultant at Hambastagi Consulting Group, he offers guidance and technical assistance, conducting monthly assessments of development and humanitarian conditions in Afghanistan. Previous roles include serving as a Senior Adviser in the Office of the Chief Executive in Kabul, Afghanistan, providing counsel on finance and development matters, and as Deputy Minister in the Ministry of Finance, achieving notable success in revenue collection and implementing reforms. Throughout his career, he has showcased robust leadership and coordination skills across various capacities, making substantial contributions to national development policies, literacy programs, and sustainable livelihood initiatives. His extensive international exposure, coupled with a commitment to professional development, positions him as a seasoned expert in the field.

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Sayed Ahmad Gawhari

Sayed Ahmad Gawhari is a seasoned public health professional with over 20 years of experience in governmental, international, and national entities in Afghanistan. Holding an MD from Balkh University and a Master of Public Health (MPH) from the Royal Tropical Institute in Amsterdam, Sayed Ahmad Gawhari has a strong background in health system reform, program management, and project implementation. Fluent in multi languages, he possesses a diverse skill set, including program and project implementation, statistical analysis, proposal development, and conflict management. With a successful track record working with major international donors, Sayed Ahmad Gawhari’s professional journey includes roles at Lutheran Immigration Refugee Services, Jhpiego – John Hopkins University, The World Bank, Paywast/USTRONICS, Ministry of Public Health- Afghanistan, Save the Children and local NGOs. Demonstrating leadership and expertise, Sayed Ahmad Gawhari has overseen diverse responsibilities such as facilitating proposal development, coordinating with health donors, and managing budgets and staff. Sayed Ahmad Gawhari 's extensive experience includes leading and managing projects, ensuring quality care and services, and providing crucial technical assistance to NGOs.

With over 10 years of experience in finance and accounting, Jafar Hussaini stands out as a seasoned professional. He holds an MBA in Accounting/Finance from George Washington University and a BA in Political Science from the City University of New York, forming a solid academic foundation for his extensive career.
Currently serving at the D.C. Government as an Accounting Officer, Hussaini has demonstrated exceptional skill in managing the day-to-day operations of the agency as well as showcasing his ability to modernize financial practices and enhance reporting transparency.
In his previous roles as Director of Financial Analysis, Comptroller, and Director of Finance & Accounting, Hussaini skillfully managed international finances, streamlined payroll systems, and revamped accounting policies, adeptly handling complex financial operations and compliance. He led multiple audits in strict adherence to GAAP, established a robust internal control framework, and innovated in financial operations, significantly improving fiscal efficiency and accountability.
In addition to being a Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP), Hussaini brings expertise as a seasonal Full-Service Tax expert with Intuit-TurboTax, adding depth to his profile. Hussaini's career is a blend of dynamic leadership, strategic financial management, and a deep understanding of both governmental and private sector finance and taxation, making him an invaluable asset.

Jafar Hussaini

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Rasouli

Ghulam Rasoul Rasouli

Mr. Ghulam Rasoul Rasouli is a seasoned professional with over 29 years of national and international development expertise, specializing in post-conflict and fragile states such as Afghanistan, Sierra Leone, and Rwanda. His extensive experience includes serving in key leadership roles within large-scale Community Driven Development (CDD) programs, such as the National Solidarity Program (NSP) and the Citizens’ Charter Afghanistan Program (CCAP). Throughout his career, Mr. Rasouli has provided strategic guidance and operational support to governments, international organizations, and non-governmental entities, demonstrating a strong commitment to fostering sustainable development and peacebuilding efforts.

With a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from the American University of Afghanistan and a background in English Language studies from Kabul University, Mr. Ghulam Rasoul Rasouli brings a multidisciplinary approach to his work. His diverse skill set encompasses program management, financial administration, procurement, logistics, and public-private partnerships. Mr. Rasouli's contributions have been recognized through numerous publications, including reports on public financial management reform, community-driven peacebuilding approaches, and inter-ministerial coordination in governance initiatives.

Mr. Ghulam Rasoul Rasouli's commitment to excellence is evident in his active participation in international conferences and workshops, where he shares insights gained from implementing large-scale CDD programs in fragile contexts. His ability to navigate complex socio-political landscapes and mobilize resources for impactful initiatives underscores his dedication to advancing sustainable development and fostering inclusive growth. As Mr. Rasouli continues to leverage his expertise in community development and peacebuilding, he remains steadfast in his pursuit of creating positive change and enhancing the resilience of communities worldwide.

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Abdul Wassay Arian

Abdul Wassay Arian, an Afghan national, possesses robust analytical skills in policy and program development, monitoring, evaluation, and financial management. Over 15 years of experience in Afghanistan's Ministry of Education, he held key positions such as Senior Advisor to the Minister and Director General of Planning and Evaluation. Arian played a pivotal role in crafting the National Education Strategic Plans (NESP I-III), guiding education development in Afghanistan from 2006 to 2021 and facilitating resource mobilization and the country's membership in the Global Partnership for Education (GPE). He spearheaded the formulation of crucial policy documents like the Teacher Policy and led efforts to expand private schools, enhancing educational services nationwide.
Additionally, Arian championed the establishment of the Education Management Information System (EMIS) and supported the National Institute of Education Planning, offering training to over 500 Ministry of Education staff. With 16 years of senior positions in NGOs, he contributed significantly to institutional development, securing substantial funding and overseeing program implementation benefiting millions in underserved areas. Arian's dedication extends to his past role as a teacher in Afghan refugee schools, highlighting his commitment to education at all levels. He also served on the boards of organizations promoting accountability and quality service provision, reflecting his broader impact on Afghan society.

Zahra Mirzaei

Zahra Mirzaei, a Bachelor of Science in Midwifery from Kabul, Afghanistan, is currently pursuing a Master of Public Health and Health Promotion at Brunel University London, UK. With 18 years of experience, she excels in providing technical support and guidance for Maternal & Newborn Health programs both domestically and internationally. Notable achievements include her leadership as the president of the Afghan Midwives Association, where she played a crucial role in establishing the Afghan Nurses and Midwives Council and the first midwife-led maternity care center in Afghanistan. Zahra Mirzaei is recognized for her passion for excellence, continuous learning mindset, and strong organizational and interpersonal skills. She has been honored for her contributions to improving midwifery standards and promoting respectful maternity care in Afghanistan. Currently serving as a Maternal and Newborn Health Technical Advisor at John Hopkins University, Zahra Mirzaei continues to make significant contributions to the field through her expertise in project management, strategic planning, and leadership

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