Meet Mariam: SVUDL’s New Program Specialist!
Mariam Ahmed’s relationship with SVUDL spans nearly a decade. As one of the league’s earlier student participants, SVUDL was where she first discovered her voice and the power of civic discourse. Over the years, her connection to the organization has deepened—first as a student, then as an intern, mentor, and alumni. Now, Mariam joins the team as a Program Specialist, bringing both firsthand experience and a commitment to the students SVUDL serves.
“Coming back to SVUDL as a team member feels full-circle. Speech and debate shaped who I am and now being on the other side, I have the opportunity to contribute to the mission that once empowered me. Every debate round, every practice, every moment with community I experienced as a student comes back to me now—but with a new lens for the behind-the-scenes work it takes to make it happen for our students.”
SVUDL gave Mariam more than just debate skills—it gave her confidence, purpose, and community. “Debate taught me how to think and analyze critically, speak with conviction, and navigate spaces where my voice wasn't always expected. SVUDL believed in me when I was still figuring out who I was,” she shares.
As a Program Specialist, Mariam is excited to help students see debate as more than just a competition. “I’m most excited to help students see debate not just as a competition, but as a platform for self-expression and social change. I’m excited to contribute to our incredible programming and help make sure that it reflects the brilliance and lived experiences of the students we serve.”
Her advice to current SVUDL students is to never underestimate the power of their story. “Don’t underestimate the power of your story. Your voice, your background, your perspective—they matter. Debate isn’t about sounding like everyone else; it’s about learning to speak like yourself, with clarity and purpose. And remember: you belong in every room you walk into, even if you get the occasional imposter syndrome.”
Mariam is passionate about being a role model, especially for students who come from similar backgrounds. “Being a role model means showing what's possible when someone like you gets the chance to grow, to lead, and to truly thrive. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about doing your best and setting an example for students who’ve never seen someone with their story in positions of leadership.”
She hopes to help students find their voice the way she found hers. “I want students to feel what I felt like in my first debate round: that realization that their words could move people. That they could ask the hard questions, challenge systems, and spark change. Meeting students where they are, helping them sharpen their tools, and reminding them that their voice already matters—it’s just about learning how to use it.”
For Mariam, debate has been a lifelong lesson that extends beyond the classroom. “Debate taught me how to lose with grace, and keep moving forward. It set the stage for real-world experiences and advocating for equity in tough spaces. Whether in life or work, the skills gained through debate are lifelong and indispensable. Especially in a world where AI and technology are rapidly advancing, the ability to communicate effectively, think critically, and research is more crucial than ever.”
And when she’s not working to empower students, Mariam enjoys chess and learning about coffee. “I’m a huge fan of chess. I love the way it mirrors debate: thinking several steps ahead and staying calm under pressure. I also enjoy learning about coffee, and making incredible espresso.”
