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ASD Middle School Student Named Global Winner of Prestigious NESA Stanley Haas/Luke Hansen Award
25 February 2026
Student Achievement
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American School of Doha (ASD) Grade 8 student Aaishah Chaudhary has been selected as one of four international winners of the prestigious Stanley Haas/Luke Hansen Student Award for the 2025–2026 academic year. Sponsored by the Near East South Asia Council of Overseas Schools (NESA), the award recognizes middle school students who demonstrate exceptional character, leadership, and service. Aaishah was chosen from a competitive pool of applicants spanning hundreds of schools across the NESA region, from Greece to India.
Established in 1996, the Stanley Haas/Luke Hansen Award honors students who model unwavering persistence, a willingness to take risks, a deep respect for diverse cultures and perspectives, and a sustained commitment to the welfare of others. As one of the four global finalists, Aaishah received a $1,000 USD grant, along with an official certificate and a letter of commendation from the NESA Board of Directors, during a private ceremony at ASD.
Reflecting on her achievement, Aaishah said, “I first saw this opportunity last year and was interested, but I didn’t invest in it. This year I went for it, put in the work, and was honestly surprised to win.” When asked what made her stand out among hundreds of applicants, she shared, “I put everything into the essay. I wrote about what I truly believed in. I talked about the present but also about the future and what I hope to see change.”
Aaishah’s story is rooted in a strong commitment to service and economic empowerment. She independently runs a micro-lending initiative through the global platform Kiva, turning an initial 1,000 QAR investment into more than 22,000 QAR in loans supporting entrepreneurs worldwide. She has also raised funds through creative projects such as bracelet businesses and painted rocks. “I really care about female entrepreneurs,” she said. “My generation has the power to make change. I want a career in politics where I can voice my opinions and help shape a better future. I love public speaking and speech — that’s something I’m really passionate about.”
The application process was entirely independent, with Aaishah noting, “I did this completely by myself. My mom didn’t proofread my essay or guide me. It gave me confidence that I can make my own decisions, do hard things, and see them through to completion.” She carefully selected three recommenders — her football coach, her best friend’s mother who is a physician, and her 7th-grade social studies teacher — to reflect the many facets of her character. “Make sure you choose people who really know you,” she advised.
ASD also recognized two other outstanding regional representatives, Zayan Ahmad and Akshee Bhargava, whose applications were forwarded to the NESA selection committee. All three students were commended by Middle School Principal Dr. Almy for their leadership and exemplary character.
Aaishah’s global upbringing, with family roots in India, the United States, and Qatar, has shaped her broad perspective. Her mother works for Qatar Airways and her father serves in a leadership role within Qatar Foundation, both modeling perseverance, ambition, and courage. She is inspired by political leaders such as Zohran Mamdani, New York City’s first Muslim mayor, and hopes to study politics in NYC one day. “Look into the future, not the past. Adapt to change instead of pedaling backward,” she advises.
At ASD, Aaishah has thrived in a community that values diversity, belonging, and meaningful learning. “The different clubs and activities let me explore my passions and shape my beliefs,” she said. “Whether it’s Dragon Lab, Debate, or Drama, there’s something for everyone. ASD has shaped me into someone who knows how to take what I’m learning and apply it to the real world.”
“We are incredibly proud of Aaishah for her dedication and commitment to being a positive, active global citizen,” said the ASD Middle School Counseling Team. “She embodies the values we strive to instill in all our students: empathy, integrity, and a drive to make the world a better place.”
Congratulations also to Aaishah’s family, teachers, coaches, and mentors who have supported her journey. Aaishah’s independence, conviction, and forward-thinking spirit embody the ASD mission: growing talents, fostering belonging, and applying learning in meaningful ways.