1. Can you introduce yourself and share a bit about your background?
My name is Lana Daham Surchy from the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. I am an architect and hold an Executive MBA. I am also a passionate human rights advocate, and a dedicated HR professional.
2. You’re from Iraq, but specifically from the Kurdistan Region. How do you define these two identities, and what makes you proud of your culture?
Yes, I come from the Kurdistan Region, a beautiful and autonomous region in northern Iraq. While Iraq is made up of many diverse communities, Kurdistan is home to over six million Kurds who live peacefully, speak Kurdish, and maintain a rich and distinct culture.
What sets us apart is our strong sense of identity and deep-rooted traditions. One of our most cherished celebrations is Newroz on March 21st, marking the Kurdish New Year and the arrival of spring. It’s a joyful time filled with dancing, music, and gatherings around bonfires.
Our traditional clothing is unique and colorful. Unlike in many places where traditional attire is reserved for special occasions, many people in Kurdistan proudly wear it daily. We often accessorize handmade items crafted from cloves and coral, which add both beauty and cultural meaning.
Family is at the heart of our society. We have deep respect for our elders, caring for them, valuing their wisdom, and listening to their advice are fundamental aspects of our way of life.
What makes me proud is the resilience, warmth, and hospitality of our people, along with our strong commitment to preserving our language, culture, and values despite many historical challenges.
3. A Multidisciplinary Path, from architecture to HR and humanitarian work—what connects all these roles for you?
While my career path may seem diverse, spanning architecture, engineering, humanitarian work, and HR, it’s deeply connected by one core mission: serving others and advocating for human rights.
I see myself first as a human rights advocate. That foundation has shaped every career choice I’ve made. When I graduated in architectural engineering, my goal wasn’t just to design buildings, it was to create inclusive, safe spaces that reflect cultural identity. I was especially drawn to urban design and vernacular architecture, which honor both people and their environments.
As I entered the professional world, I became increasingly aware of workplace inequalities. I saw a need for fairer, more inclusive environments, which led me to study labor law and workplace policy, and eventually to fall in love with human resources.
Today, I focus on building purpose-driven workplaces where people feel respected, supported, and empowered to contribute meaningfully.
At the heart of all of this is a simple belief: no matter who we are or where we are, we each have the power to make life better for someone else.
4. You’re a strong voice for disability inclusion. How has that shaped your professional life?
My advocacy for disability rights is deeply personal. I grew up with two older siblings—one with a physical disability and one with a mental disability. From an early age, I witnessed the daily challenges they faced, and the systemic gaps that left them unsupported.
My sister never had access to education tailored to her needs. Even today, she tells me, “I could’ve achieved so much if I had just been given the opportunity.” That reality is heartbreaking—and far too common.
These experiences shaped my values and sense of purpose. I’ve always felt a deep responsibility to speak not just for my siblings, but for anyone whose potential is dismissed because of a disability.
In my work, I strive to normalize disability, push for inclusive hiring, and ensure that people with disabilities are not only present, but valued and empowered. But this work is not easy. The real issue is not with people who have disabilities; it’s with the biases and perceptions of others. Many still fail to realize that anyone can experience disability temporarily or permanently at any point in life.
This is about more than policy — it’s about changing mindsets. Because inclusion isn’t charity, it’s a basic human right.
5. You conducted important research on disability inclusion in the private sector. What were the key takeaways from this study?
My research involved gathering insights from thousands of private sector companies and individuals with disabilities. The goal was to understand challenges from both sides and identify the root causes of exclusion in the workplace.
The main takeaway? The barrier is not the disability — it’s the environment. Many workplaces lack proper support, accessibility, and inclusive policies. Although laws exist, implementation is weak. It was heartbreaking to hear from so many qualified individuals — with degrees, certifications, and drive — being rejected because of societal bias.
Another key finding was that many employers view hiring disabled individuals as a burden, not recognizing the unique strengths and perspectives they bring.
I chose to focus on the private sector because it’s growing, while the public sector is no longer creating new jobs. My long-term goal is to advocate for legislation that requires private companies to hire a minimum percentage of people with disabilities.
Inclusion should not be optional—it must be embedded into how we build our workforce and society.
6. What did you value most about your role in the Kurdistan Regional Government?
Although I currently work as a freelance consultant supporting both public and private sectors, I’m especially proud of my past role as Learning and Development and Employee Relations Manager with the Kurdistan Regional Government.
One of the most rewarding parts of that job was helping to upskill and reskill youth in the region. Many were deeply motivated by a genuine love for their homeland and a desire to serve others.
I developed personalized development plans, ensuring each employee got the training and growth they needed to thrive.
In my role managing employee relations, I valued the human side of HR—listening, empathizing, and building a safe space for employees. I never saw HR as a policing force, but rather as a trusted guide or parental figure—helping people feel heard, safe, and supported.
The trust people placed in me is something I carry with pride and gratitude, and it’s what continues to inspire my work in every role I take on.
7. What leadership challenges have you faced, and how did you address them?
A major challenge across both public and private sectors has been micromanagement and a lack of autonomy. Despite my expertise in HR and administration, I was often not trusted to make decisions, which delayed progress and made me accountable for outcomes I couldn’t fully control.
Some senior leaders, despite lacking HR experience, were reluctant to delegate or accept professional advice. I consistently advocated for autonomy, repeatedly saying, “Let me lead in my area of expertise.” But this resistance to change led to frustration and turnover among qualified managers—many of whom left due to the lack of trust and decision-making power.
To overcome this, I focused on building credibility through performance, fostering open dialogue, and creating empowered teams within my scope of influence.
While systemic change was difficult, I stayed committed to leading with integrity and focusing on the areas where I could make a difference.
8. As a Hubert H. Humphrey Fellow, how has this fellowship shaped your perspective on inclusion and diversity?
The Humphrey Fellowship has been a powerful, eye-opening experience and empowering. It showed me that inclusion and diversity are not just values—they are daily practices.
By engaging with professionals from all over the world and participating in leadership and community activities, I’ve seen how inclusive practices create stronger workplaces.
What struck me most was seeing inclusion embedded in U.S. institutions—not just in policy, but in behavior and culture.
It reinforced my belief that equity is the goal, not charity—and that real change requires awareness, action, and allyship.
This experience has renewed my commitment to fostering inclusive workplaces in Kurdistan Region, especially for people with disabilities and marginalized groups. It has also inspired me to push for policy reforms and support environments where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute.
9. What are your goals for the future, particularly in public policy or HR?
My long-term vision is to help create inclusive, equitable, and human-centered systems through public policy and HR leadership.
Having worked in both sectors, I’ve seen the challenges employees face. That’s why I want to develop policies that center on well-being, inclusion, and equity, particularly for women and people with disabilities.
In public policy, I aim to advocate for labor reforms and disability inclusion laws that mandate fair hiring practices and workplace accommodations. I also plan to develop vocational training programs for women and people with disabilities to help them become economically independent.
In HR, my goal is to transform organizational cultures, moving away from rigid, top-down approaches toward more empowering, empathetic leadership. I want to help organizations design HR strategies that are not just compliant, but compassionate where people feel heard, valued, and supported.
Ultimately, I want to use my voice and expertise to influence both policy and practice, and help build a world where everyone can live with dignity.
10. Discovering Iraq and Kurdistan… If I were to visit your region, what should I experience?
Iraq is a truly remarkable country often called the cradle of civilization, home to some of the earliest human settlements and innovations in history. While the country has endured years of conflict, it continues to rebuild through the resilience, love, and unwavering spirit of its people.
Iraq is a land of contrasts, offering a variety of experiences depending on where you go from ancient ruins to vibrant cities, from arid deserts to lush green mountains.
If you visit Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan Region and my hometown, one of the first places you must see is the Erbil Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world. Walking through its ancient stone paths is like stepping back in time.
You’ll also experience breathtaking natural beauty from majestic mountains to crystal-clear waterfalls. The landscapes of Kurdistan are often described as heaven on earth, with every season bringing a different charm. Even the air carries a unique scent fresh, earthy, and filled with a deep love for our homeland and cultural identity.
What will truly stay with you, though, is the warmth of the people. Wherever you go, you’ll be welcomed like family. Hospitality is at the heart of our culture, and you’ll be invited to share delicious traditional food, each dish filled with flavor and history. To understand our region is to feel its soul through its people, its stories, and its unwavering pride in culture, heritage, and hope.
11. What would you say to young professionals, especially women and people with disabilities?
A Message to the Next Generation… You are the author of your own destiny. Don’t let anyone define your worth or limit your potential. The challenges you face will shape your strength and resilience, and those very struggles can become the foundation for creating positive change in the lives of others.
Believe in yourself, even when the world doubts you. Your voice, your story, and your efforts matter. Whether you choose a career in human resources, public policy, or any other field, know that your presence can inspire, your work can uplift, and your journey can pave the way for those who come after you.
Never let barriers define you instead, let your determination break them.
12. Do you have a personal quote that inspires you?
Yes—a powerful Kurdish saying that guides my work and mindset: “Em şer dikin da ku aşiti bê, na ku şer bimîne.” — “We fight so that peace may come, not so that war continues.”
This quote speaks to my belief in standing up for others, facing challenges with purpose, and always working toward a more just and inclusive world
This fight means standing up through kindness, through wishing good for others, and through knowledge. You can fight by using your voice, your actions, and your expertise to make the world a better place even if it’s just for one person. That, to me, is the most meaningful kind of impact.