Dr. Mishkat Al Moumin is a visionary leader and an advocate for digital literacy, environmental sustainability, and women’s empowerment. As the Executive Director of Loaves, Fishes, and Computers, Dr. Al Moumin leverages her profound expertise to drive impactful change.
Dr. Al Moumin, a former Iraqi Minister of the Environment, has devoted her career to advancing environmental rights as human rights, a principle enshrined in the Iraqi Constitution of 2005. Her work has empowered women to become key stewards of environmental resources, amplifying their voices within civil society organizations. During her tenure, she risked her life to ensure access to clean water for underprivileged communities in Baghdad, surviving multiple assassination attempts. More recently, Dr. Al Moumin contributed to hands-on STEM education for Title I schools in Nevada through her leadership at Envirolution, where 50% of the students served qualify for free or reduced lunch. Currently, she focuses on expanding digital literacy in low-income communities in Salinas, California, by providing affordable refurbished computers, repair services, and digital literacy classes. Through her dynamic career, Dr. Al Moumin continues to inspire and lead, proving that the empowerment of women and the protection of our environment are not just goals, but essential pathways to a sustainable and equitable future.
Recently, in an exclusive interview with Digital First Magazine, Dr. Al Moumin shared her professional trajectory, insights on the significance of diversity and inclusion, her favorite quote, future plans, words of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview
Hi Dr. Al Moumin. Can you walk us through your background and what you’re most passionate about in your work?
My background is rooted in law, governance, and advocacy, particularly in Iraq, where I served as the country’s first Minister of Environment in the Iraqi Interim Government (2004-2005). During my tenure, I was deeply involved in environmental policy, women’s rights, and the challenges of rebuilding a war-torn country. Despite being known as the country between two rivers, Iraq struggled to provide clean water to its people. I took it upon my minister to step in and help vulnerable communities and worked across ethnic lines. I was humbled by the community support and their active engagement.
One of my greatest passions is empowering marginalized communities, especially women, by ensuring their voices are included in policy-making. This includes my work with the Women and Environment Organization, which I founded to address environmental issues and women’s roles in resource management. My efforts extended to helping low-income and rural communities in Iraq, particularly through education and capacity-building programs that focused on sustainability, water conservation, and sanitation in underserved areas(Global Issues) Unfortunately, my advocacy for women’s rights made me a target of extremist groups, leading to several assassination attempts, one of which claimed the lives of my bodyguards. Despite these challenges, I remain committed to empowering vulnerable populations and building sustainable, inclusive policies. Immediately after surviving a suicide attack, I went to my office to be among staff, and I continued to work until the end of the business day. I felt supported when staff members came in to check on me after they heard the news. Leadership is about serving the community and being there for them during their hour of need. (Middle East Institute) (New Security Beat).
What aspects of your current role bring you the most joy and fulfillment?
What brings me the most joy and fulfillment in my current role is the opportunity to empower marginalized communities, through advocacy and policymaking. I firmly believe that by involving communities in the management of resources and policies, we can create more sustainable, inclusive solutions that benefit entire communities. Seeing women gain knowledge and take ownership of their roles in preserving the environment is incredibly rewarding. Currently, at Loaves, Fishes, and Computer, the team and I strive to provide affordable computers and digital literacy to low-income communities, women suffering domestic violence, homeless people, or any other marginalized group.
I also find great fulfillment in teaching and mentoring, whether it’s through academic roles at institutions like George Mason University or through community-based initiatives. Witnessing positive change, both at an individual and societal level, and knowing that my efforts contribute to a more equitable and environmentally conscious future, gives me deep satisfaction.
What are the three major trends do you foresee in your industry in the next 12 months?
As I look ahead to the next 12 months, I foresee three major trends shaping our industry, particularly within the intersection of environmental advocacy, technology, and community empowerment:
- Digital Leadership and Environmental Action: The increasing importance of digital tools and platforms will play a pivotal role in both environmental and social justice efforts. Organizations like Loaves, Fishes, and Computers (LFC), which work to bridge the digital divide, will be crucial in equipping underserved populations with the necessary digital literacy skills. Digital leadership will emerge as a key factor in how communities engage with environmental sustainability efforts. Empowering individuals with digital skills can enhance community-level initiatives, enabling greater advocacy, access to resources, and participation in policy-making processes.
- Sustainability and Tech Integration: As more sectors focus on sustainability, I anticipate a deeper integration of technology in addressing environmental challenges. From leveraging data analytics for resource management to using digital platforms for environmental education, organizations will need to ensure equitable access to these technologies. LFC’s mission to provide computers and digital literacy to underserved communities can support the dissemination of information on sustainable practices, empowering low-income communities to actively participate in environmental conservation efforts.
- Inclusive Policy and Climate Justice: The conversation around climate justice will continue to grow, with more focus on how environmental policies disproportionately affect marginalized communities. This trend underscores the need for inclusive digital platforms where these voices can be amplified. By working with organizations like LFC to improve digital literacy, we can ensure that underrepresented communities are equipped to advocate for themselves in both local and global environmental discussions.
What impact do you believe increased diversity and inclusion would have on innovation, creativity, and progress in your industry?
Increased diversity and inclusion are vital for driving innovation, creativity, and progress in any industry, particularly in the fields of environmental policy, community development, and digital equity. When we include diverse perspectives—across gender, race, socioeconomic status, and geographic regions—we allow for more innovative solutions to complex challenges.
In my experience, particularly with the Women and Environment Organization and my advocacy in Iraq, I’ve seen firsthand how diverse voices lead to more effective policies. For example, when women are involved in decision-making around resource management, they bring unique insights based on their daily interactions with the environment, which often results in more sustainable solutions. (New Security Beat)
Similarly, within the digital space, increasing access and participation for underrepresented communities leads to more creative uses of technology and greater social progress.
At organizations like Loaves, Fishes, and Computers (LFC), diversity in both staff and those they serve can enhance their ability to address the digital divide. By embracing diverse viewpoints, LFC can better understand the unique challenges faced by different communities and create tailored digital literacy programs. This inclusivity fosters creativity, as various cultural and social experiences inspire new ways to bridge gaps in access to technology.
Inclusion also enhances innovation by bringing together multiple perspectives, leading to solutions that are more comprehensive and resilient. When people from different backgrounds collaborate, they challenge each other’s assumptions and push beyond conventional approaches, which is essential for tackling global issues like climate change and digital equity(Middle East Institute) (New Security Beat). Therefore, increasing diversity and inclusion is not just an ethical imperative but a strategic advantage for achieving lasting progress.
What leadership qualities and skills do you believe are essential for driving growth and transformation, and how do you embody those qualities in your own leadership style?
To drive growth and transformation, I believe several key leadership qualities are essential: vision, resilience, collaboration, and a strong commitment to inclusion.
- Vision: Effective leaders must be forward-thinking and able to anticipate challenges while identifying opportunities for growth. In my own experience as Iraq’s first Minister of Environment, I led the creation of the country’s first environmental policy despite limited resources and extreme challenges. My vision was not only to address immediate environmental issues but also to empower women to play a key role in sustainable practices, ensuring long-term environmental stewardship.
- Resilience: Leading through transformation often means confronting obstacles and opposition. My advocacy for women’s rights in Iraq led to several assassination attempts, but I remained resilient in the face of adversity. I understood that creating lasting change requires persistence, especially when addressing deeply ingrained societal challenges. Middle East Institute. Resilience has always been at the core of my leadership, enabling me to continue my work, even when faced with life-threatening situations.
- Collaboration: Transformation cannot happen in isolation. Effective leaders build coalitions and foster collaboration across diverse groups. Through my work with the Women and Environment Organization, I have brought together international organizations, tribal leaders, and local communities to address environmental and social issues. Global Issues
- Commitment to Inclusion: Growth and transformation are best achieved when leadership is inclusive. I believe that diversity in voices and perspectives brings more creativity and innovation to solving complex problems. Whether in environmental policy or digital equity initiatives like those at Loaves, Fishes, and Computers (LFC), I have always prioritized inclusivity, ensuring that marginalized voices, especially women, are heard and that they play an active role in decision-making(New Security Beat) (Middle East Institute).In my leadership style, I embody these qualities by maintaining a clear, inclusive vision and fostering collaboration, all while demonstrating the resilience needed to push through challenges.
Who has been a personal role model or mentor to you throughout your career, and what qualities or characteristics have you admired or emulated?
Throughout my career, two of the figures I have deeply admired and often reflected upon are Winston Churchill and Nelson Mandela. These leaders faced immense challenges and adversity, yet they demonstrated remarkable resilience, vision, and courage—qualities that I strive to emulate in my own leadership.
Churchill, in particular, taught me the importance of resilience in the face of overwhelming odds. His ability to lead with conviction and stand firm in the darkest times of World War II inspires me to persist, even when circumstances seem insurmountable. His tenacity in defending freedom and justice resonates with my own struggles in advocating for women’s rights and environmental reform under challenging conditions in Iraq.
Similarly, Mandela’s commitment to reconciliation and inclusivity has deeply influenced my approach. Mandela’s belief in the power of dialogue and his ability to transform a nation through empathy and inclusion have shaped my leadership style, especially when working on projects that aim to bring diverse communities together. His capacity to unite people after years of division serves as a model for my own efforts in fostering collaboration and understanding among Iraq’s various communities. (Middle East Institute).
Both of these leaders, in their different contexts, exemplify how courage, resilience, and a deep belief in justice can drive transformation. When faced with difficult decisions, I often ask myself what Churchill or Mandela would have done in my shoes. Their legacies push me to maintain strength and vision in my work.
How do you keep your mind healthy and stay resilient? And how do you motivate your team?
To keep my mind healthy and stay resilient, I focus on cultivating a growth mindset. This means I see challenges as opportunities for learning and growth rather than setbacks. By approaching problems with curiosity and focusing on solutions, I maintain a positive outlook, which helps me stay motivated during difficult times. This mindset has been crucial in my work, especially when I was navigating the challenges of building Iraq’s Ministry of Environment and advocating for women’s rights in a conflict-ridden context (New Security Beat).
I also prioritize well-being through daily habits that support both mental and physical health, such as mindfulness practices, regular exercise, and setting boundaries to prevent burnout. This balance allows me to stay energized and focused on my goals. In leadership, maintaining this resilience is key because it enables me to handle stress and make clear-headed decisions.
When it comes to motivating my team, I focus on empowering them to adopt a growth mindset as well. I encourage them to see challenges as opportunities for development and emphasize collaboration to find solutions. By fostering a supportive environment where team members feel heard and valued, I help them grow both personally and professionally.
What is your favorite quote?
One of my favorite quotes is from Nelson Mandela: “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” This quote resonates with me deeply because it reflects the importance of resilience, perseverance, and hope—qualities I’ve relied on throughout my career. Whether I was advocating for women’s rights in Iraq, establishing the Ministry of Environment, or surviving multiple challenges, this quote reminds me that even the toughest obstacles can be overcome with determination.
Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
In the next five years, I see myself expanding my career in digital leadership, using technology to drive social and environmental change. My focus will be on scaling initiatives like Loaves, Fishes, and Computers (LFC) to bridge the digital divide and empower underserved communities with the digital skills necessary to participate in the modern economy. I believe that digital leadership is essential for creating innovative solutions to environmental challenges and enhancing community resilience.
Additionally, I plan to deepen my involvement in environmental policy and women’s empowerment, advocating for inclusive policies that integrate technology and sustainability. I also aim to continue mentoring emerging leaders, promoting a culture of digital innovation and inclusion to help shape a more sustainable and equitable future.Top of FormBottom of Form
What message or advice would you give to young women or girls who are interested in pursuing a career in tech?
My message to young women or girls interested in pursuing a career in tech is simple: embrace your curiosity and don’t be afraid to take risks. Technology is a field where innovation thrives, and the unique perspectives that women bring can help shape the future in powerful ways. Believe in your potential, even in environments where you may be underrepresented.
Additionally, develop a growth mindset—see every challenge as an opportunity to learn. Tech is constantly evolving, and the ability to adapt, learn new skills, and seek creative solutions will be your greatest asset. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, seek out mentors, and surround yourself with a supportive community.
Finally, remember that you belong in tech. Your contributions are valuable, and by staying true to your passion and persevering through obstacles, you can break barriers and inspire others to follow in your footsteps.
References
Coffey, M. (2020, February 14). Dr. Mishkat Al-Moumin on the importance of women & the environment to sustainable peace. Friday Podcasts. https://www.newsecuritybeat.org/2020/02/dr-mishkat-al-moumin-importance-women-environment-sustainable-peace/
Legatis, R. (2012, March 13). Women’s empowerment vital for sustainable development: An interview with Mishkat Al Moumin. Inter Press Service. https://www.globalissues.org/news/2012/03/13/12992
Middle East Institute. (n.d.). Mishkat Al Moumin. Middle East Institute. https://www.mei.edu/profile/mishkat-al-moumin-0