Meet Ayanna Dawkins-Brown, SIS/MA ‘23, a recent graduate from the Master of International Relations (MAIR) program. In a short question-and-answer session, Ayanna reflects on her journey and shares insights, program highlights, and the significance of service in her nonprofit work. Ayanna is co-founder of Diplomatic Perspective, a DC-based NGO established in 2019 and dedicated to bridging the gap in international affairs for diverse youth and underrepresented young adults. The organization aims to provide educational opportunities, cultural exchange, partnerships, technology, and travel experiences. Ayanna embodies Black excellence and is deeply committed to the future of underrepresented communities. Her dedication to advocacy shines through in her impactful work. We take great pride in having her as part of our SIS MAIR alumni community!

What attracted you to the School of International Service at American University?

When deciding on a graduate school, multiple factors influenced my choice, especially given my current life stage. I sought an internationally recognized institution for international relations that would provide access to top-tier education and resources to propel me into the global arena. Founding my nonprofit, Diplomatic Perspective, I aimed to apply the knowledge gained to its mission. Selecting SIS was both a strategic and local choice, allowing me to engage with institutional resources while participating in their online program.

Why was the Master of Arts in International Relations (MAIR) a good fit academically and professionally?

MAIR proved a good fit academically and professionally, offering a multidisciplinary program blending theory and application. Armed with a BS in Economics, the program's diverse educational opportunities complemented and strengthened my skills, aligning seamlessly with my role as a Senior Education Account Executive at Microsoft. Amidst global events like the COVID-19 pandemic, MAIR provided insights into the crucial role of diplomacy across industries.

What were the highlights of your experience in the program? (online format, your interactions with faculty, and program curriculum).

Throughout the program, I strategically leveraged the online format to its fullest, capitalizing on the flexibility to learn while juggling work responsibilities, running a nonprofit, and fulfilling roles as a wife and mother. This unique approach allowed me to master the art of balancing life commitments while applying newfound knowledge in unconventional ways. Interacting with professors and peers from diverse corners of the world broadened both my personal and professional networks. A noteworthy instance of applying education to real-world impact was during the Project Design Monitoring and Evaluation course. This prompted the redesign of my nonprofit's Diplomatic Leaders Development Program, where I enhanced our monitoring and evaluation practices, providing clearer insights into the impact of our initiatives. The flexibility of creating my own concentration focused on institutions and developing markets opened doors to unique opportunities, including studying abroad at the Graduate Institute of Geneva over the summer.

What was your favorite part of the MAIR program?

My most cherished aspect of the MAIR program was cultivating a global network of like-minded individuals. Learning from their diverse experiences and perspectives proved equally valuable to the academic insights provided by professors. The availability of faculty not just for academic guidance but also for thoughtful discussions on career decisions was particularly appreciated. Given my professional background in the nonprofit sector, these conversations were instrumental in exploring opportunities in other industries, enriching my overall learning experience.

How did the program impact your professional career? What values of service have you exemplified in your role as co-founder of Diplomatic Perspective?

The MAIR program has profoundly shaped my professional journey, particularly in my role as co-founder and CEO of Diplomatic Perspective. The impact of the program manifests in various dimensions, notably in my ability to conduct extensive research for Diplomatic Perspective. While passion and purpose serve as a foundation, the MAIR program has equipped me with the skills to effectively communicate the importance and impact of our work through meticulous research, supported by facts and data.

In my capacity as an Education Account Executive, closely monitoring the global education sector, the program's influence became apparent. It provided a nuanced understanding of the current global landscape, revealing insights into existing systems, institutions, and critical gaps in our interconnected world. This comprehensive perspective has proven invaluable as I navigate the intricate intersection of technology, education, and international relations, especially amid the challenges posed by the pandemic.

Within the realm of technology and education, the MAIR program empowered me to make connections between global events and the tools and resources at our disposal. It brought to light the disparities in technology access both domestically and internationally. This heightened awareness prompted a closer examination within the tech industry, sparking a renewed focus on addressing underlying challenges.

My passion for uplifting minority student groups, particularly in their pursuit of socioeconomic advancement, has grown stronger. The MAIR program has provided me with the skills, confidence, and an expanded network to make a tangible impact. Armed with these resources, I am better equipped to contribute meaningfully to bridging gaps, fostering equality, and instigating positive change within the education sector.

In parallel, the program has significantly bolstered my efforts at Diplomatic Perspective. It has served as a catalyst, enriching my ability to lead and conduct impactful initiatives. The newfound skills and perspectives acquired during the MAIR program have amplified our advocacy work, especially in empowering minority students through education, social capital, and opportunities. The program's influence extends beyond my role as an Education Account Executive, shaping my commitment to making a lasting difference through Diplomatic Perspective.

How are you advocating for your community and bringing awareness to the field of international relations?

A profound perspective I encountered at the Graduate Institute of Geneva has left a deep-rooted mark on me—the notion that international relations is often perceived as a realm exclusive to the privileged, mirroring existing power inequalities. In envisioning international relations, it should mirror the diverse world we inhabit. However, many African Americans across the United States grapple with survival challenges, spanning financial stability, access to quality healthcare and education, and overall well-being. When contemplating Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, my guiding question is always: how can I assist individuals in transcending the base of the pyramid and reaching the pinnacle? The answer lies in education, social capital, and opportunity.

Over five years of dedicated service, Diplomatic Perspective has emerged as a crucial launching pad for African American students in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia region, committed to nurturing the next generation of diverse diplomatic leaders. Our approach involves equipping these students with diplomatic and leadership skills, fostering personal growth, career development, and community engagement—both locally and internationally.

For many of the students we serve, the world beyond a 25-mile radius of their homes remains unexplored. They are often unaware of the proximity of embassies and ambassadors right in their backyard. Diplomatic Perspective seeks to dismantle mental and financial barriers by demonstrating that their current situation is transient. Through our educational initiatives, network expansion, and passport assistance, we empower every student matriculating through our program with a US passport. This strategic intervention serves as a pivotal shift, removing constraints and opening doors to global opportunities.

As we celebrate our five years of service, we are embarking on The Black Passport Project—a visionary initiative with the audacious goal of providing one million Black American students with their US passport. This initiative aims to transform these students into productive global citizens, fostering diversity and inclusion within the field of international relations. Through our unwavering commitment to programming and services, we are confident in our ability to reshape the landscape, ensuring that the field mirrors the true diversity of our world.