Abdul Rahman Rahmani is a Disaster Response and Recovery Leader from Afghanistan and is an alumnus of the 2024 McCain Global Leaders cohort. He currently serves as Special Projects Manager at All Hands and Hearts working to strengthen humanitarian response readiness and crisis operations in some of the world’s most complex environments. In the conversation below, he shares more about his work, the experiences that continue to motivate him, and the lessons he carries forward as a leader navigating complex humanitarian challenges.
What are you currently working on?
I’m currently working on strengthening humanitarian response readiness for operations in complex and high-risk environments as Special Projects Manager at All Hands and Hearts. My focus is on rapid deployment planning, field security and operational coordination, and building systems that support safe and effective response operations. I’m also supporting strategic readiness for potential deployments in international crisis and disaster-affected regions.
How has your work created impact in your community or field?
My work has focused on service during crisis, both in conflict environments and in community recovery efforts. Over the years, I have supported emergency operations, humanitarian coordination, and the evacuation and resettlement of hundreds of Afghan families following the collapse of Afghanistan. More recently, my work continues through humanitarian response operations aimed at helping communities recover safely and rebuild after disasters and complex crises.
How did the McCain Global Leaders program influence your leadership journey?
The McCain Global Leaders program strengthened my belief in character-driven leadership, leading with integrity, humility, resilience, and responsibility, especially during difficult moments. It reinforced that true leadership is not defined by position or authority, but by how you serve others, make decisions under pressure, and stay grounded in your values during uncertainty. The program also connected me with leaders whose courage and commitment to service inspired me to continue leading with purpose through transition, adversity, and change.
How has being part of the McCain Global Leaders network impacted your work or perspective?
Being part of the McCain Global Leaders network gave me a renewed sense of purpose after the collapse of Afghanistan, when my family and I lost almost everything we had built over many years. During a period filled with uncertainty, displacement, and rebuilding, the program reminded me that leadership and service do not end when circumstances change. It connected me with people who lead with character and resilience, and helped me regain confidence that my experiences, values, and commitment to serving others still had meaning and a place in the world.
What advice would you give to emerging leaders?
Lead with character before ambition. Titles, positions, and recognition can change very quickly, especially during difficult times, but your integrity, resilience, and the way you treat people will always define your leadership. Stay humble, continue learning, and do not lose your sense of purpose during setbacks, sometimes the most difficult chapters of life shape the strongest leaders.
What gives you hope right now?
What gives me hope right now is the opportunity to rebuild through the American dream and to see my children receive the education and opportunities they deserve. As a father, especially to my daughters, that means everything to me. If we had remained in Afghanistan, their future and education would have been uncertain, but here they are able to dream freely, learn, and build the future they choose for themselves.
What is your favorite thing about your home country?
My favorite thing about Afghanistan is its people, their resilience, hospitality, and deep sense of community even after decades of hardship. Afghanistan is also a country of incredible history, culture, and natural beauty, from its mountains to its poetry and traditions. No matter where life takes me, Afghanistan will always remain part of my identity and the place where my values of service, family, and perseverance were shaped.
The McCain Global Leaders Program supports character-driven leaders from around the world who embody Senator John McCain’s legacy of serving a cause greater than oneself. Structured as a 12-month fellowship and experiential learning experience, each cohort will include a diverse group of leaders from around the world who are working “in the arena” to advance democracy and protect human rights and freedom. The program is designed to advance each Leader’s personal and professional leadership journey and impact by providing training, resources, and access to highly relevant regional and global networks with goal of preparing today’s leaders to meet tomorrow’s challenges.