The Undergraduate Women in Business Association (UWiB) at the University of Washington has named Mahnaz Javid, Founder and CEO of Mona Foundation as its 2022 "Woman of the Year". Mahnaz was honored at UWiB's 15th Annual Paving the Way Fundraiser at Seattle's Fremont Abbey Arts Center on April 21, 2022. This was especially meaningful as the day was also Mona Foundation's 23rd anniversary.

UWiB was established in 2005 to connect female undergraduate students with professional women business leaders. Each year, they select one local female business leader who has made significant gains and contributions to the progression of women and society as a whole to receive its "Woman of the Year" award.

In presenting the award, Katauna Loeuy, UWiB's director of external relations, said, "The Mona Foundation is a global non-profit focused on providing education to young women around the world. We have chosen to award Mahnaz Javid as our Woman of the Year as we admire her devotion to changing the lives of young women all over the world. She has paved the way to ensure the rights of females to attain equal educational opportunities, and her accomplishments, generosity, and passion are inspiring. We hope Mahnaz can continue to share her incredible story and encourage others to follow their pursuits in making a difference for a better world."

The Mona Foundation believes the key to eliminating poverty and achieving positive and sustained community transformation lies in universal education and gender equality. Javid was selected by UWiB's Executive team, based on her contributions to grassroots educational programs in economically disadvantaged communities worldwide, since 1999.

Mahnaz delivered the keynote speech at the recent "Paving the Way" event to an audience of local business professionals, UW faculty, students, and families, sharing her story about being a woman in business and the mission behind the Mona Foundation. "I am in awe of the dedication and devotion of these bright female students," she said. "I feel I have come full circle as I earned my Master's degree at the University of Washington, and how I wish I had this organization to join back in my university days. The recognition is especially meaningful to me as it was awarded to me on Mona Foundation's 23rd anniversary~ April 21st."

UWiB raised more than $45,000 for its endowed scholarship fund at the evening’s event, which is more than the organization has ever raised at its annual fundraiser, according to UWiB executives.