Ashraf Syed
The role of leadership is to guide, inspire, and influence others toward achieving a common goal. It is not just about holding a title or position of power—true leadership involves responsibility, vision, and the ability to motivate people while making thoughtful decisions for the benefit of the group, team, or organization.
A leader defines a clear direction and a long-term vision, helping people understand the purpose and goals they are working toward. This inspires confidence and motivates others to give their best. They lead by example, build trust, and encourage commitment.
Leaders are responsible for making informed, timely decisions—even under pressure. They assess risks, gather input, and weigh consequences, fostering a culture of respect, collaboration, and accountability. They shape team dynamics and promote values like integrity and fairness. Good leaders mentor, coach, and invest in the growth of others. They recognize strengths, provide feedback, and help people reach their potential. Leaders navigate change and help others adapt. They communicate clearly during transitions and lead with resilience.
In many contexts, leaders serve as the face of their organization or community. They advocate for others and handle external communication or diplomacy.
Ashraf Syed is one such leader, the Assistant Secretary General for U.S. Affairs of the International Commission of Culture and Diplomatic Relations (ICCDR). He is an Indian national who resides in the USA, married, and blessed with a four-year-old son.
As a role model, an ambassador, and a father, Ashraf Syed has carved out a niche in the world with his captivating educational background and role as a leader. This has enabled him to represent the ICCDR, engaging in global initiatives and actively participating in high-level meetings at the United Nations, World Bank, and International Monetary Fund. His wealth of experience allows him to contribute to meaningful discussions on culture, diplomacy, and global cooperation.
He was born into a middle-class family where education was the top priority, shaping his values and aspirations from an early age. His academic journey reflects his passion for knowledge and interdisciplinary learning. He holds two master’s degrees from renowned institutions in the United States: a Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering and a Master of Science in Mathematics, Information, and Computer Science. His commitment to staying at the forefront of technology has led him to earn several certifications in fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Low Code Development, and Cloud Computing.
In an exclusive interview with Adenrele Adewale of Dotolive News Magazine, Mr. Ashraf Syed shared his experiences on education, how he was driven to pursue a fulfilling career and continue personal growth, and his dedication to expanding his expertise and adapting to emerging trends. He also shared his advocacy for Responsible AI, emphasizing the importance of safety guardrails to ensure ethical and secure technological advancements.
Below are the excerpts:
Tell us about your early childhood…where you grew up, who/what were the most memorable characters and events growing up, what you remember about your town/city during the time you were growing up?
I was born and raised in Hyderabad, India, in a warm, close-knit joint family where education and societal good were cherished values. Both my maternal and paternal families emphasized on education and giving back to society, instilling in me a deep sense of curiosity, responsibility, and a desire to make a difference from a young age.
One unforgettable figure from my childhood was my mathematics teacher, Mr. N. Jayaram. Coming from humble roots, he went out of his way to teach underprivileged students for free, showing me the power of selflessness. His dedication as an educator left a lasting mark, igniting my passion for mentorship and uplifting others.
Hyderabad, during my growing-up years, was a vibrant city blending rich cultural heritage with a burgeoning tech scene. Watching it evolve into a global tech hub inspired me to pursue a path where technology and societal impact intersect, a vision that continues to drive my work today.
You are the Assistant Secretary General for U.S. Affairs of the International Commission of Culture and Diplomatic Relations (ICCDR). Tell us the aims and objectives of this organization? What are your major responsibilities as ASG and how have you been able to inspire younger ones?
The International Commission of Culture and Diplomatic Relations (ICCDR) is committed to fostering global unity through culture, education, and dialogue. Our mission is to preserve and promote cultural heritage, facilitate exchange programs that build mutual understanding, and advance peace by embracing diversity. Through innovative initiatives, ICCDR empowers communities worldwide to collaborate and address global challenges with shared wisdom and creativity.
As Assistant Secretary General for U.S. Affairs, I oversee cultural programs, cultivate strategic partnerships with international organizations, and represent ICCDR at high-level global forums. I have been an ardent advocate of integrating digital innovation particularly low-code development and Artificial Intelligence, to amplify the impact of our initiatives and make them more accessible. My role is about creating connections, not just between organizations but also between ideas and people, to drive meaningful change.
Inspiring the next generation is a cornerstone of my work at ICCDR. Through mentorship programs and speaking engagements, I encourage young people to embrace cultural diversity and explore careers in transformative fields like technology and healthcare. By sharing my journey from Hyderabad’s vibrant streets to international diplomacy, I hope to motivate youth to see themselves as global citizens who can shape a more inclusive, innovative world.
You have actively engaged in high-level panels, forging strategic dialogues, held meetings with various international organizations; what have been the most challenging and the most rewarding aspects of leadership for you?
Navigating the intricate landscape of international diplomacy is one of the most challenging aspects of leadership. Harmonizing diverse cultural perspectives and priorities to achieve shared goals requires patience, empathy, and strategic finesse. Yet, this very challenge fuels the most rewarding moments. Facilitating dialogues that spark meaningful collaborations and seeing our initiatives create tangible, positive change in communities worldwide is profoundly fulfilling. Most inspiring of all is watching young professionals grow into confident leaders, carrying forward the mission of cultural understanding and global unity with passion and purpose.
You amplified the organization’s vision through events, advocating for ethical governance and the responsible adoption of AI. Who inspired, influenced you and why do you choose this path?
My commitment to advancing ethical governance and the responsible adoption of AI stems from a blend of personal influences and a deep belief in technology’s potential to serve humanity. My family background and Hyderabad being a leading tech hub in India, guided me towards choosing a career where technology and ethics intersect. Additionally, global tech leaders like Satya Nadella, CEO Microsoft and Elon Musk, CEO Tesla and Space X who have emphasized on empathetic and inclusive innovation resonates deeply, have shaped my approach to leveraging AI for positive impact.
I chose this path because I believe AI, when guided by ethical principles, can bridge cultural and societal divides, fostering solutions that are equitable and sustainable. Amplifying ICCDR’s vision through events allows me to advocate for governance frameworks that prioritize transparency and accountability, ensuring AI serves as a tool for empowerment rather than division. Leading these conversations is both a responsibility and a privilege, as it shapes how technology can uplift communities worldwide.
I’m fortunate to work closely with our Secretary General, Dr. Srinivasa Rao Eluri, whose support, and open-mindedness to new ideas have been instrumental. Himself a tech-savvy person, Dr. Eluri encourages me to think constantly about innovation and fosters an environment where bold, ethical solutions can thrive.
You attended the 2025 Spring Meetings of the World Bank Group (WBG) and International Monetary Fund (IMF). Can you share with us some of the deliberations and how impactful and transformative they will be?
The 2025 Spring Meetings of the World Bank and the IMF provided a vital platform for addressing global economic challenges. As a representative of the ICCDR, I participated in discussions centered on the responsible integration of AI into economic systems, job creation, and sustainable development.
Key deliberations emphasized innovative strategies for job creation, particularly for youth, through skills development and social safety nets. The Global IDA Forum: Progress and Reflections from IDA 20 to IDA 21 highlighted the International Development Association’s $100 billion budget for development projects, focusing on transformative investments in low-income countries, especially in Africa. These initiatives aim to unlock Africa’s economic potential by fostering job creation and economic resilience, contributing to both local and global stability. Discussions on AI underscored its potential to enhance economic planning and service delivery, provided it is guided by ethical governance to ensure equitable outcomes.
These outcomes are transformative because they prioritize collaboration and innovation. By fostering partnerships and leveraging technology, the meetings laid the groundwork for policies that empower communities and drive inclusive growth, aligning with ICCDR’s mission to advance cultural and societal progress through technology.
You served in the Virginia healthcare sector, with multiple award-winning projects such as VASE+ for its innovative approach and its positive impact on society, especially during the COVID pandemic. Tell us more, and how the populace benefited from it.
Yes, in my role as Technical Lead at Virginia Department of Health (VDH), I led several initiatives aimed at improving healthcare technical apps through low code development platforms. Among these, the most notable was VASE+, our Vaccine Administration Scheduling Engine. Conceived and launched in just three weeks on a “war footing,” VASE+ streamlined the COVID-19 vaccination process by enabling efficient appointment scheduling and robust data management, all while ensuring compliance with regulations like HIPAA.
The application played a pivotal role in facilitating the vaccination campaign across the entire state of Virginia, significantly contributing to public health efforts during the pandemic. VASE+ received multiple innovation awards and was widely recognized across the United States for its effectiveness and timely impact.
Personally, this project brought immense satisfaction, after all, what could be a nobler cause than contributing to an effort focused on saving lives?
ICCDR aims to promote cross-cultural awareness and understanding through international cultural education, tourism, and exchange programs. What do you like about African Culture?
I deeply admire African culture for its rich diversity, resilience, and profound contributions to global heritage. The continent’s vibrant traditions, expressed through music, art, storytelling, and community practices, reflect a deep connection to history and identity that inspires cross-cultural understanding. For instance, the rhythmic energy of Afrobeat, the intricate symbolism of Adinkra textiles, and the communal spirit of Ubuntu resonate with ICCDR’s mission to foster mutual respect and collaboration. I’m particularly drawn to how African cultures weave tradition with creativity, crafting vibrant expressions of identity that enhance global conversations. Through ICCDR’s exchange programs and cultural initiatives, I’ve seen firsthand how these cultural treasures spark meaningful connections, empowering communities and promoting unity across borders.
Amazing memories are unforgettable; can you share with us your most amazing memory?
One of my most unforgettable memories is from an industrial tour during my final year as an undergraduate student, which beautifully blended education and cultural exploration across North India. Our university organized visits to industrial plants and a software development facility in Delhi, where I was captivated by teams working on cutting-edge technology that powered global infrastructure business. A standout moment was discussing with an engineer how a single line of code could transform operations for thousands, bridging classroom learning with real-world impact and fueling my passion for technology’s potential to drive change.
Equally unforgettable was the cultural journey that complemented our educational visits. Exploring iconic monuments like the Taj Mahal, Red Fort, and Agra Fort showcased India’s rich heritage, with their intricate architecture and historical stories leaving me in awe. Wandering through Kashmir’s breathtaking landscapes added a sense of wonder, connecting me to the diverse tapestry of my country.
What advice would you give the younger ones?
To the younger generation, my advice is,
- Develop a strong, compassionate personality.
- Pursue knowledge relentlessly.
- Embrace change positively.
- Stay resilient in the face of challenges.
- Put yourself in the pursuit of shaping a better world
Thank you for sharing with Dotolive News Magazine
You are welcome. Thank you.
DNM2025
