Behind every success story lies a journey shaped by education, encounters, and transformative ideas. Malik Normurodov’s story is no different. A graduate of prestigious programs, a mentor, and a manager at the international project MABLE Maps, Malik embodies leadership and purpose, blending personal ambition with societal impact.
Where It All Began
While in the 10th grade at a school in Jizzakh, Malik came across an announcement about the FLEX (Future Leaders Exchange) program organized by the U.S. Embassy in Uzbekistan. Determined to seize the opportunity, he applied and, after a six-month wait, found his name on the list of selected participants.
This marked the start of a transformative journey: intensive training sessions, preparation, and finally, stepping into an American classroom. The program opened his eyes to a new culture and way of thinking. “My first trip to the U.S. helped develop my creative thinking and uncover my strengths,” he recalls.
This experience laid the foundation for his future aspirations on the global stage, teaching him the importance of independent thought and creative problem-solving as tools for success.
Returning to Inspire
After a year in the U.S., Malik returned to Jizzakh to enroll in the Faculty of Engineering at the Jizzakh Polytechnic Institute. Upon graduation, he gained professional experience at regional enterprises before taking a pivotal step in 2012. That year, Malik was accepted into the prestigious Iacocca Global Village program at Lehigh University in Pennsylvania, USA.
The program introduced him to global leadership concepts and allowed him to collaborate with young professionals from around the world. Together, they worked on real-world business challenges in the U.S. market. Although their efforts were amateur, Malik describes the process as transformative, igniting his passion for entrepreneurship.
Years later, Malik returned to the program—not as a participant but as a mentor. Since 2018, he has trained young leaders every summer, helping them unlock their potential and navigate their own journeys.
Educator and Advocate
In 2013, Malik moved to Tashkent and began his teaching career at the Singapore Institute of Management Development (MDIS Tashkent). He taught courses in entrepreneurship, public speaking, and communication skills, blending theoretical knowledge with real-world application. His innovative teaching methods inspired students to embrace self-improvement and aim higher.
In 2018, Malik joined Westminster International University in Tashkent (WIUT) as a Senior Corporate Relations Manager. There, he established partnerships with over 30 leading organizations, developed executive courses for tech companies, and organized more than 20 leadership training programs aimed at fostering professional growth.
A Pandemic-Induced Shift
The pandemic prompted Malik to reflect on his career and future goals. In 2020, he returned to Lehigh University on a full scholarship to pursue an MBA, specializing in business analytics and entrepreneurship. Alongside his studies, he worked as a business analyst at Lehigh’s Small Business Development Center, where he developed financial models, market entry strategies, and innovative solutions for startups.
In 2023, Malik returned to Lehigh once again to pursue a Master of Engineering in Technical Entrepreneurship. Excited to deepen his expertise, he exclaimed, “Lehigh, I’m back!” This program allowed him to integrate technological innovation with business practices, further shaping his approach to leadership and entrepreneurship.
Leadership Through Innovation
Today, Malik serves as a Project Manager at MABLE Maps, a U.S. National Science Foundation-funded initiative that enhances accessibility for individuals with disabilities in large buildings. As a manager, Malik oversees all aspects of the project, including planning, budgeting, and execution, ensuring its success while fostering inclusivity through innovative solutions.
In addition to his role at MABLE Maps, Malik is developing The Possibly, a platform designed to simplify the application process for international students aspiring to study abroad. The platform addresses challenges in applying to prestigious universities and provides comprehensive support for students navigating the process.
Malik also collaborates with Lehigh University’s College of Health, managing large-scale grant projects, organizing events, and ensuring compliance with grant regulations.
A Vision Beyond Self
Malik’s guiding principle is that true success lies in serving others. “True success, for me, lies in serving the interests of society,” he says. “When a person identifies their passions and pursues them, they discover the best version of themselves. Enthusiasm and dedication are contagious—nurturing these traits inspires others and paves the way for innovation and progress.”
Reflecting on his journey, Malik adds: “The future of any country depends on its next generation of leaders. Leadership is about dreaming big and taking bold action.”
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