Harmonizing Science, Sport, and Song: An
Uzbek Soprano’s Remarkable Journey
A remarkable soprano from Uzbekistan, Mumtozbegim Ochilova is redefining boundaries through her extraordinary journey that harmonizes science, sport, and song. As a sophomore at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, she not only captivates audiences with her operatic talent but also showcases her leadership by founding a basketball club for fellow musicians, emphasizing the importance of physical wellness in artistic pursuits. With a Bachelor of Science in genetics, her academic prowess complements her artistic expression, proving that excellence transcends disciplines. After overcoming sports injuries that redirected her path from gymnastics and basketball to opera, she now holds a contract with Uzbekistan’s prestigious Bolshoi Theater, aiming to represent her culture on global stages. Her story is a testament to resilience, community, and the beautiful synergy of diverse passions.
Breaking Barriers: How Sabina
Kaharova is Building a Future Without
Limits
Inspiring determination defines Sabina Kaharova, a Lowell High School junior from San Francisco, who blends her rich Uzbek heritage with American ambition. With a remarkable 4.95 weighted GPA and a stellar 1530 SAT score, she excels in advanced courses while gracefully engaging in figure skating and surfing. As President of the Lowell Science Research Program, she leads groundbreaking research at UCSF and shadows neurosurgeons, solidifying her dream of becoming a neurosurgeon. Beyond academics, Sabina volunteers with the United Nations in Uzbekistan, driving initiatives for civic engagement and mental health. Her vision combines neuroscience with international relations, aiming to create ripples of positive change across communities.
Transforming Challenges: Lola
Abdugapparov An Uzbek-American’s
Path to Excellence
Lola Abdugapparov, an inspiring Uzbek-American dual-enrollment student, exemplifies how life's challenges can be transformed into remarkable achievements. With an impressive 4.2 GPA while pursuing an associate’s degree, she channels her early life adversities into academic success and community leadership. Driven by her family's experiences with hardship, Lola has developed a deep passion for psychology and social justice, seamlessly blending her cultural heritage with her educational aspirations. As president of the Interact Club, she has organized impactful fundraisers, collaborated on environmental justice initiatives, and celebrated her Uzbek roots through cultural workshops. Co-founding her school’s Model United Nations club and winning engineering competitions, Lola embodies resilience and leadership. Her vision extends beyond personal success; she strives for a world where every voice is heard and support systems are accessible to all. Through her athletic pursuits and creative expression, Lola's story is a testament to how challenges can reveal our greatest potential for positive impact, encouraging others to embrace their journeys toward collective advancement.
From Uzbekistan to Wall Street: Mukhlisa
Mutalibova’s Journey of Courage and
Ambition
Mukhlisa Mutalibova is a Finance major at San Francisco State University, originally from the Arnasoy district of Jizzakh, Uzbekistan. Since moving to the U.S., she has actively pursued academic excellence and career development, earning a place in the LFCoB Mentorship Program and participating in the FinTech Conference at the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco.
She is currently the Vice President of the CIS Community at SFSU and is passionate about preserving and sharing her cultural roots. As a proud Uzbek, she values authenticity and tradition - most notably through her love of national dance. She recently performed a traditional Uzbek dance at a cultural event hosted by UC Berkeley, proudly showcasing the beauty and elegance of Uzbek heritage.
Mukhlisa enjoys playing tennis, reading, learning about finance, and expressing her culture through cooking and dancing. She is currently preparing for finance certifications and internships in investment banking and hopes to mentor young Uzbeks in the future, proving that with purpose and resilience, dreams can become reality.
The Symphony of Talent: Sultona
Payman’s Journey Through Music, Art,
and Academic Excellence
Sultona Payman exemplifies the beauty of embracing multiple passions, harmonizing her extraordinary talents in music, art, and academics with a profound commitment to community service. A gifted pianist, she has achieved first place in championships and performed at Carnegie Hall, showcasing her technical precision and emotional depth. Beyond music, her visual art has garnered recognition, with exhibitions at City Hall, reflecting her unique perspective. Academically, Sultona excels with straight A's in advanced courses, driven by her fascination with natural sciences. Her understanding of talent as a responsibility is evident in her charity concerts and art auctions supporting the UN’s Share the Meal program. Sultona’s journey inspires young dreamers, proving that a life enriched by diverse interests can lead to impactful contributions, encouraging us all to nurture our talents in service of something greater.