International RSO
The Multicultural Empowered Women Student Association (MEWSA) at Southern Illinois University Carbondale is a registered student organization dedicated to supporting undergraduate and graduate women students from all backgrounds. The association provides an inclusive platform for female-identifying students, both international and domestic, to connect, grow, and build meaningful friendships through shared experiences.
To promote the empowerment, self-esteem, and autonomy of women students regardless of their nationality, race, or language, while strengthening bonds of emotional, psychological, and social support in a safe environment.
To create a highly supportive, multicultural community of women leaders who are equipped with the professional skills, confidence, and solidarity necessary to actively participate in civic, community, and global spaces.
Provide spaces and networking opportunities that enhance leadership talents and professional development; foster solidarity and mutual service between newly arrived and established international women students; maintain updated media platforms to promote organizational initiatives; and coordinate social, educational, recreational, and civic activities that cultivate cross-cultural understanding.
Tatiana is an international student from Pasto, Colombia, and a Master’s student in Social Work at SIU. With a background in journalism and social advocacy, she serves as MEWSA President, creating opportunities for women to connect, grow, and thrive through inclusion, solidarity, and empowerment.
Priyanka is a Master’s student in Forestry from Nepal and serves as MEWSA Vice President. Passionate about community participation and climate resilience, she values cultural exchange, collaboration, and women’s empowerment. She also enjoys writing poems and stories and building meaningful connections with diverse communities.
Email: priyanka.subedi@siu.edu
Anahit is a Zoology student from Tehran, Iran, with a passion for wildlife, conservation, and understanding animal behavior. She enjoys traveling, hiking, visiting museums, drawing, cooking, and meaningful conversations. She also loves spending time with her cat and has a natural connection with animals that inspires her academic and personal interests.
Email: anahit.amiri@siu.edu
Prashna is a Health Care Management student from Nepal pursuing a future career in nursing. She supports women’s empowerment and cross-cultural collaboration. Outside of academics, she enjoys cooking, exploring new cultures, and engaging with her community.
Email: prashna.prasai@siu.edu
Alliah is a Computer Science student from the Philippines and MEWSA’s Media Officer. Passionate about web development, AR/VR, and languages, she enjoys learning about different cultures and perspectives. She believes continuous learning through technology and cultural exchange creates opportunities for meaningful impact.
Email: alliah.bombais@siu.edu
