Ayan Huseynli, a former internally displaced person (IDP) from Kalbajar, has been chosen as the official face of The New School University for 2025. This honor follows her successful completion of a Master's degree in International Affairs at the prestigious US institution and recognizes not only her academic achievements but also her inspiring personal journey.

Ayan's story begins with her family's displacement from the Kalbajar region. Driven by an early passion for international relations and humanitarian values, she excelled at the Heydar Aliyev Lyceum before earning a bachelor's degree in International Relations from ADA University in 2023.

Continuing her pursuit of knowledge, Ayan enrolled at The New School University in New York City in 2024 and distinguished herself by completing her Master's program with exceptional results in just one year. The university administration, impressed by her academic record and civic engagement, selected her as the face of 2025.

While Ayan's selection, stemming from her background in the Karabakh region, drew opposition from some Armenian groups, their efforts proved unsuccessful. Ayan sees her experience with displacement not only as a part of her family history but as a call to action – a mission to amplify the voices of those silenced by conflict. "We have lived the uncertainty of being displaced, the longing for a homeland," she stated. "But the most important lesson I've learned is that home is more than just a location. Home is the people who support you, the dreams you hold onto, and the purpose that drives you forward."

Explaining her choice of international relations as a field of study, Ayan shared, "My aim is to be the voice for those whose voices are suppressed by conflict, injustice, and displacement. This path has led me to work with the UN and to engage on various international platforms."

Looking ahead, Ayan Huseynli intends to dedicate her skills and knowledge to the advancement of Azerbaijan.