Samar Khan believes that true success lies in using our voice and having the vision to help elevate others. For her, it’s about purpose—uplifting others, especially women and girls, by creating access, opportunity, and community. Through her work in education and advocacy, Samar has built a life rooted in service, balance, and leadership. She reminds us that when women are empowered to step into their power, they don’t just change their own lives—they shape the future.
Finding Joy in Purpose, Balance, and Uplifting Others
What does living a life that you love look like for you?
For me, living a life I love means pursuing my ambitions with purpose and balance. It’s a balance of growth, joy, and being authentic. It’s where I can find alignment between my goals and values and make each day meaningful.
For me, fulfillment comes from helping people. That’s why higher education has been so rewarding. I could empower student leaders and connect them to opportunities that would take them to the next level and open a pathway to opportunities. Empowering people by giving them the right tools, access to resources, and opportunities is what fuels me.
When I see people, especially those who can’t advocate for themselves or don’t know where to start, I want to help. There are many ways to get to the same place, but sometimes people need direction, guidance, or mentorship. Cultivating that path for women, girls, and future leaders is deeply fulfilling for me. Whether through my career or personal efforts, I seek out opportunities that align with that purpose.
Balancing family and passion is also part of that fulfillment. I continue seeking opportunities that allow me to support and uplift others.
Why Strong Communities Are the Blueprint for Real Change
How has community helped you and been a part of your journey?
I believe community is the foundation of leadership. Communities are what set the groundwork for building strong, thoughtful leadership. They’ve been incredibly important to me.
When you understand the needs and gaps within your community, you begin to find the people who want to work with you to fill those gaps, advocate for change, and be part of the solution. Whether it’s policy changes or local support, communities are where real change begins. Strong communities build strong foundations.
I always encourage others to seek out their communities, listen to diverse voices, and be open to different perspectives. You’ll be surprised at how many commonalities we share. Ultimately, most people want the same things. Communities have played a vital role in helping me find the best ways I can support others.
Success Is Peace, Purpose, and Building Bridges for the Next Generation
How do you define success today?
Success is building bridges, creating impact, and staying true to your values. When your work uplifts others, and your choices reflect your purpose, that is true success. When your presence brings peace, that is true success. I’m a strong advocate for women’s health. Taking care of yourself and investing in yourself means you can show up for others and be present for your family, friends, loved ones and the people you interact with in your daily life.
Success is also about building a future not just for yourself, but for the generations to come. We can learn a lot from those who came before us, those who didn’t just seek personal gain but paved the way for others.
To me, success is about giving your children the tools they need to succeed, not just financially, but mentally, spiritually, and emotionally. It’s also about contributing to your community, raising awareness, and doing your part, however small, to make a difference.
From Self-Care to Self-Affirmation: Daily Practices That Keeps Samar Grounded
What habits help you stay successful in the work you do?
For me, it starts with mindset. I rely a lot on mental habits like self-affirmation and not letting setbacks hold me back. If something doesn’t go well, I practice forgiveness for myself and others and keep moving forward. I reflect on what I can improve, but I don’t dwell. That attitude helps me stay grounded and focused.
Self-care is essential. Whether it’s a skincare routine or 10 quiet minutes with coffee in the morning, I prioritize that time. I also stay physically active through walking, cardio, and yoga.
I’m also committed to lifelong learning. Especially in today’s tech-driven world, it’s important for women to stay current and continue growing.
And journaling—I want to do more of it. We must give ourselves the time, grace, and space to grow and that is something I continually work on.
The Confidence Gap and How Representation and Mentorship Can Close It
Why do women hesitate to take big opportunities?
This question really resonates with me. One of my personal and professional goals over the past few years has been helping women step into their power.
When women don’t see others like them in leadership roles, it can be hard to envision themselves there. That’s why representation is so important. Women need to see other women leading. We also need to advocate for policies that support women and create safe spaces where they can grow into roles traditionally held by others.
Mentorship is key. I’ve been intentional about finding people in my network to coach or mentor me and I aim to do the same for others. That mentorship must come from a place of trust and shared experience. It doesn’t always have to be a woman, but having visible role models helps.
Representation, mentorship, and community support are the tools we need to help more women step into leadership confidently.
Flipping the Script: Making Equal Opportunity the Norm, Not the Exception
What is one rule for women you’d like to change or rewrite?
Unfortunately, barriers still exist—barriers to leadership, equal pay, and access to opportunity. I would rewrite the mindset that says opportunity is not equally available. We need to normalize that it is.
Let’s start investing in women, nurturing their leadership potential at every level, and removing systemic barriers. Equal pay, equal representation, and equal access should be the rule, not the exception. This shift in thinking must become automatic.
We need to equip women from all backgrounds with the tools, resources, and support they need to thrive. That’s the kind of rule I would like to see rewritten and lived.
A Voice for the Voiceless and a Champion for Lasting Change
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
I want to be remembered as an advocate for those who are still finding their voice, who can’t yet advocate for themselves. If I can inspire even one woman to confidently apply for a job, speak up, or believe in her own power, I would be proud.
Empowering women to believe in themselves and recognize their potential is at the heart of what I do. True leadership comes from listening to your community and helping others rise with you.
Whether it’s through policy change, mentorship programs, or advocacy, I want to be part of the movement that creates real access and lasting change. Even a small step toward removing barriers—toward equal pay, equal opportunity, and equal representation—would be a legacy worth leaving for my daughters and future generations.
I feel truly honored to be part of this dynamic network. It’s both inspiring and humbling to collaborate with such an extraordinary group of women who are driving meaningful change.
Samar Khan is a higher education professional and has a passion for public health, women’s initiatives, and championing equity. Samar has actively contributed to promoting community engagement and awareness around women’s health and wellness initiatives. Her commitment extends to serving on nonprofit boards, leveraging her leadership experience to drive impact. Samar is deeply committed to advancing impact through education and public service, using her voice and leadership to create lasting change.
