Our Team
The People Behind PAHNA Media
Pahna Media is powered by a diverse team of journalists, producers, creatives, technologists, and advisors committed to informing, connecting, and amplifying Afghan voices.
Leadership
Jamal Naser Farahmand
Founder & CEO
Advisory Board
Ahmad Mansoor Rasool
Ahmad Mansoor Rasool holds a Bachelor of Business Administration and brings more than a decade of experience in organizational planning, program coordination, community engagement, and project development across Afghanistan and the United States. His professional experience includes supporting a U.S. Department of State program, as well as business development work in the United Arab Emirates. With a strong understanding of organizational strategy and community-focused initiatives, Ahmad contributes to building effective programs and sustainable partnerships. At PAHNA Media, he plays an important role in project development, strategic planning, organizational growth, and advancing the organization’s long-term mission to serve and connect the Afghan American community.
Farzan Farzad
Farzan is a Senior Statewide Program Advisor with the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), a licensed Civil Engineer, and a graduate of UC Davis. He is also the owner of a full-service engineering firm and has extensive experience in community engagement, nonprofit leadership, and advocacy. His work focuses on supporting young adults and families through education, personal development, and community-centered initiatives, with a particular interest in the intersection of psychology and spirituality. Farzan currently serves on the PAHNA Media Advisory Board, contributing his experience and expertise to support and serve the Afghan American community.
Nisar Ahmad Samadi
Nisar Ahmad Samadi is a public servant, entrepreneur, interpreter, author, and community advocate. He currently serves as a Business Services Manager with the California Governor’s Office and is the Founder and CEO of Beyond Barriers LLC, a California-based language services company providing interpretation and translation in more than 240 languages. With over a decade of experience as an interpreter, including his service with the U.S. Army in Afghanistan, Nisar brings a unique perspective shaped by language, culture, and lived experience. He is also the host of the Built Not Born podcast and the author of The Terp, a memoir reflecting on his experiences and life as an American interpreter in Afghanistan. Through his professional and community work, Nisar is committed to breaking barriers, empowering underserved communities, and creating opportunities for others. He currently serves on the PAHNA Media Advisory Board, supporting its mission to serve and strengthen the Afghan American community.
Technical Team
Sakhi Akbarzada
Producer
Nawid Saberi
Producer & Cameraman
Mujtaba Jabar khil
Cameraman
Najib Arman
Graphic Designer
Hamid Reza Sepehr
Web Designer
Waris Farahmand
Reporter
Breaking NewsCultureInterviewsImmigrationCalifornia EventsTV Program
Our Partners
PAHNA Media is proud to collaborate with organizations, businesses, and community partners who share our commitment to empowering Afghan voices and strengthening our communities.
