Atlanta Jobs category interest

ATLANTA — Alumna Heloise Ahoure (B.S. ’13) embodies the spirit of service that the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies (AYS) strives to instill in its students. Now serving as the chair of the AYS Alumni Council, Ahoure is leveraging her diverse experiences to support the next generation of policy leaders.

Ahoure's journey to Georgia began in her home country of Côte d'Ivoire, where she started her studies at the International University of Grand Bassam through a 2+2 program partnership with Georgia State University.

"It was a full circle moment when I met Andrew Young, who was instrumental in making this partnership possible," Ahoure said.

After transferring to Georgia State in 2011, Ahoure immersed herself in volunteer work, which ultimately influenced her decision to switch her major from finance to public policy with a concentration in nonprofit leadership.

"Volunteering my time for nonprofits was always something I was drawn to," she said, citing experiences with Safe House Outreach, the Andrew J. Young Foundation and the Green Market at Piedmont Park.

During her time at Georgia State University, Ahoure worked with the Democratic Party of Georgia and interned at the Young foundation, where she found a mentor in Sylvia Henry Ashley, director of international affairs.

“She provided me with invaluable guidance, support, constructive feedback and opportunities which significantly enhanced my professional development,” Ahoure said.

This experience led to a five-year period of working with her home country to assist the International University of Grand Bassam in its effort to achieve American accreditation.

Now, as the development director for the International Rescue Committee (IRC), Ahoure oversees offices in Atlanta, Miami and Tallahassee, Fla. The IRC is a global humanitarian organization that provides emergency aid and long-term support to people affected by humanitarian crises. Ahoure applies her education daily in her job.

"By cultivating philanthropic relationships and advancing global partnerships to promote social, economic, educational and healthcare equity, I focus on securing government and private support for pressing societal issues — topics that we have extensively studied," she said.

Ahoure's decision to join and now lead the Alumni Council stems from a desire to give back and support international students.

"We find a way to make things happen when we truly desire to achieve something and dedicate ourselves to it," she said of her commitment to the role.

She feels a strong sense of responsibility to represent Georgia State in every setting.

“It’s the first thing people notice on my resume. It’s a reflection of myself and the school, especially as someone who has had the privilege to work with Andrew Young,” she said. “I am proud to be an alumna because of the legacy and the skills I have gained from my experience here.”

To current and incoming students, Ahoure advises taking time for self-reflection.

"We always talk of leadership. If you can't lead yourself, how can you lead others if you don't know yourself?"

She also emphasizes the importance of seeking out information and understanding the steps to achieve one's goals.

As she continues to shape policy and support communities across the southeastern United States, Ahoure's journey from international student to alumni council chair serves as an inspiration to current and future students.

"I'm the product of the school and I hope I'm able to inspire you," she said. "When I was studying policy, I never knew that I'd be writing grants today and making such an impact in people’s lives. All those papers I had to find the patience to sit, read and write – this was how I was preparing myself for where I am now."

Are you an alum of the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies? To connect with alumni like Heloise Ahoure, learn more about how you can get involved with the AYS Alumni Council and stay updated on AYS news and opportunities, get connected!