Name: Ayah Elwannas

Recipient Year: 2025

Congressional Office: Rep. Andre Carson

Description: My name is Ayah Elwannas, and I’m from Northern Virginia. I recently graduated from The George Washington University with a Bachelor of Arts in International Affairs, concentrating on Middle Eastern studies. My policy interests include advancing comprehensive immigration reform, addressing systemic gaps in women’s health and ensuring equitable access to care, and strengthening national security through counterterrorism, cybersecurity, and intelligence oversight. I am also deeply interested in U.S. foreign affairs, particularly how American diplomacy can be used to support human rights, advance conflict resolution, and build more accountable international partnerships. Looking ahead, I plan to attend law school in Fall 2026 to pursue a career in civil rights and constitutional law. Outside of policy work, I enjoy reading, oil painting, exploring local coffee shops, and taking a pilates class.

School Name: George Washington University

Sponsor: Guillen-Omar Family|Shazi Iqbal Family Scholarship

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayahelwannas/