Virginia, USA – In a significant development, Mansoor Qureshi has become the first Pakistani-American to be appointed as an adviser to Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin. His role will focus on strengthening economic and cultural ties between Virginia and Asian nations, including Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh.
Governor Youngkin praised Qureshi and other newly appointed officials, expressing confidence in their ability to drive progress for the Commonwealth. Speaking exclusively to Geo News, Qureshi expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him, stating, “I am honored to serve on this esteemed board and contribute to Virginia’s growth and development.”
Qureshi will serve on the Virginia Asian Advisory Board (VAAB), which acts as a bridge between the state administration and the rapidly growing Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities. His primary focus will be commerce, trade, education, and addressing issues affecting Asian communities in Virginia.
Highlighting the significant role of South Asian communities in Virginia’s economy, Qureshi pointed out that Muslims, Indians, and Pakistanis are among the most educated and influential professionals, yet they remain politically underrepresented. He aims to encourage greater political participation among ethnic minorities and strengthen their engagement with state policies.
Qureshi also emphasized the importance of civic involvement, urging ethnic and religious minorities to take active roles in politics, pursue internships, and engage with policymakers to ensure their concerns are addressed.
From Nawabshah to Virginia: A Journey of Resilience
Born in Nawabshah, Pakistan, Qureshi studied at Cadet College Petaro before earning a civil engineering degree from NED University, Karachi. In 2001, he moved to the United States for higher education at Georgetown University but had to pause his research due to a battle with cancer. Now a cancer survivor, he has established himself as an IT professional, entrepreneur, and recruitment specialist.
Qureshi has been actively engaged in American politics for over 15 years, supporting various Republican campaigns. He played a key role in Juan Pablo Segura’s Virginia Senate race, helping mobilize the South Asian community through unique, culturally resonant campaign events.
His appointment is being widely celebrated within the Pakistani-American community, as it marks a step forward in representation at a time when Republicans dominate US politics, while most elected Pakistani-American officials have traditionally been Democrats.
With his new role, Qureshi envisions Virginia as a global hub, fostering stronger economic ties between Richmond and Islamabad and elevating the voices of underrepresented communities in state affairs.
