A Journey Shaped by the SFF Program: Dilnoza Yodalieva

My name is Dilnoza, originally from Tajikistan and currently pursuing my Master's degree in Cybersecurity in France. Before joining the Shams Family Foundation (SFF) Program, I was a high school student searching for opportunities to grow. One of my teachers introduced me to the SFF Program, and after an interview, I was accepted to study for a Bachelor's in Computer Science at SEEU in Macedonia through the program.

Upon arriving in Macedonia, the SFF team provided invaluable support, helping us navigate the early steps of this new chapter and making sure we felt mentally supported rather than lost in a foreign environment. During my studies, I applied for a student exchange program organized jointly by SEEU and SFF, and was fortunate to spend one semester at the University of Calabria in Italy — gaining international collaboration skills and advanced technical knowledge.

Back in Macedonia, I got involved in university clubs and hackathons, working on startup ideas and strengthening my entrepreneurial thinking. In my last year, I completed my degree and officially graduated with a Bachelor's in Computer Science. Even at graduation, the SFF team stood by our side — many of us were far from home, and their presence made the moment truly special.

I am deeply grateful to the SFF Program for giving me the foundation I needed to move forward in life. Today, as I continue my academic journey in Cybersecurity, I carry with me the values, confidence, and experience I gained through the program.