President/CEO

S.J.D (Doctor of Laws) is an educator, researcher, and activist.

He holds (S.J.D) in International Legal System Studies and LL.M in US Legal System Studies at Golden Gate University (GGU), School of Law. Also holds Master of Laws (M.A) from University of Koya, College of Law in the Kurdistan Region in Iraq as well as Bachelor of Laws (B.sc) degree in Law, University of Salahaddin, College of Law.

After graduation from Salahaddin University, he was hired as a legal assistant and administrative manager at the Koya University. Meanwhile, he taught law courses at Koya Technical Institution in the legal administration department, then as a teaching assistance at Koya University College of Law-Currently Department of Law, Faculty of Humanity and Social Science, where he taught law courses, performed researches, and monitored student projects. He also contributed to building the library and became director of the law library. In addition, He brought thousands of books in Kurdish, Arabic and English language to the library. Also, founder & chief executive of Hesara organization.

Throughout these projects, He has strengthened his research, writing, and analytical skills as an educator, researcher, and activist. He has also gained valuable experiences and skills working with NGOs, volunteering, and serving as managing director of various community-based projects. He has researched and led workshops on several subjects including human rights violations and honor killings in particular.

In addition, he believes working with nonprofit is a positive step towards the change for better world that all share same rights, so, he engaged and established idea of non-profit organization to carry this concern and struggle that facing human right. In order to follow his vision, he used his professionalism in policies on the community development process and human rights specially women rights. His engagement and hard work to develop ideas for better world for everyone will not stop; he has hope for brighter future.

Vice President & Grant Manager

Blake Koch is a highly dedicated and skilled paralegal with over six years of legal experience, specializing in immigration law, criminal defense, and family law. With a certified paralegal background and a strong commitment to justice, Blake has worked with hundreds of individuals and families facing legal uncertainty, preparing asylum applications, managing removal defense cases, and supporting clients through complex legal systems with empathy and precision.

Blake has served in legal offices across California and Colorado, notably managing over 250 active immigration cases and training multilingual legal teams. His expertise spans advanced legal calendaring, legal writing, motion drafting, and evidence preparation. Blake is also a certified mediator and a recognized member of national and state legal associations, including the American Immigration Lawyers Association.

Blake’s passion for accessible legal services is matched by his strong organizational and client engagement skills. His contributions to pro bono efforts and community-based legal clinics demonstrate his deep belief in equity and support for underserved communities

Treasurer

Is a seasoned human rights and legal professional with over 20 years of experience in government, nonprofit leadership, and education. Fluent in Kurdish, Arabic, Persian, English, and Turkish, she has served in prominent roles, including Member of the Kurdistan Regional Parliament and Executive Director of Human Rights Protection and Democracy Development. Aveen’s expertise spans legal reform, human rights advocacy, organizational management, and multilingual communication. She holds advanced degrees in Law and Political Science and has contributed to numerous legislative initiatives and community empowerment programs in Iraq and the U.S. Passionate about promoting democracy, protecting human rights, and empowering communities.