Meet Our Board
The Seda Empowerment Board of Directors plays an essential role in advancing this mission. Our Board brings together individuals with diverse professional expertise, life experiences, perspectives, and a shared commitment to creating a better future for women. Through their leadership, strategic guidance, networks, and dedication, Board members help strengthen Seda Empowerment and expand the impact of our work.
Marzia Azimi
Executive Director and President
Marzia’s passion for empowering women is rooted in her own journey from Herat, Afghanistan, to building a new life in the United States. She is the Founder, President, and Executive Director of Seda Empowerment and is completing degrees in Finance and Business Administration at the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point. Outside of her work, Marzia enjoys kayaking, hiking, figure skating, and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
Suzie Swanson
Secretary
Suzie’s passion for assisting people in crisis has led her to many roles in global humanitarian assistance in 35+ countries over the past 30 years. She has served communities affected by war, natural disasters, disease, and extreme poverty through multi-sector program development and management, partnership development, global mental health, and member care. Suzie’s educational background includes degrees in international studies and multiple foreign languages, professional certificates in humanitarian program development, crisis intervention, and spiritual direction, and a master’s degree in human services counseling. Suzie lives in WI with her husband Matt and her kids Liv (6) and Kai (3). In her free time, she enjoys hosting friends, language study, and everything outdoors!
Andy Mendez
Treasuerer