IABC recognizes first Gift of Excellence awardee from Uzbekistan

Narghiza Alikulova, a communications professional from Uzbekistan, has been given the Gift of Excellence grant funding for her certification for Strategic Communication Management Professional (SCMP).

Nargiza, a Communications Officer at the Asian Development Bank, is the first in her country to be accorded with this grant, which covers the application fee, exam fee, and one-year renewal fee, amounting USD 490.

This professional certification is a validation of the knowledge and expertise of a communications professional. The CMP certification is for those with six to eight years of experience in the communication industry and is geared for the generalist/specialist communicator in the mid-level stage of his or her career. The SCMP certification is for more senior communicators or those with at least eight to 11 years of experience.

Narghiza has extensive experience in media, public relations, and cultural diplomacy. She has worked with international and donor organizations and helped develop and implement communications strategies, build relationships with stakeholders, and promote knowledge and enhance research communications.

She has taken on roles in the European Union Delegation in Uzbekistan, Webster University in Tashkent, and the United Nations Development Programme. She holds a Master of Law in political science from Kyushu University in Japan and is currently pursuing the Public Leadership Credential at Harvard Kennedy School. She is fluent in Russian, Uzbek and English, and has working knowledge of Japanese and German.

Outside of her professional life, Nargiza enjoys singing, fitness, reading and composing music. She also loves spending time with her three children.

The IABC Foundation aims to make certification more accessible, especially for members in developing economies or facing currency challenges that make participation difficult. Priority for Gift of Excellence grant funds was given to IABC members in World Bank and IMF-designated developing nations, those significantly impacted by natural disasters, and all applicants who demonstrated financial need.