We are delighted to share highlights from this year’s Swiss Days event in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, where our CEO, Nikki L. Hafezi, played an integral role. Organized by the Swiss Embassy, this annual event strengthens economic, cultural, and educational ties between Switzerland and Uzbekistan through business discussions, cultural exchange, and community initiatives.
This year, Nikki L. Hafezi was honored with the Swisslearning Excellence Award, presented by the Swiss Ambassador to Uzbekistan, in recognition of her unwavering commitment to helping children access high-quality eye healthcare and promoting Swiss education globally. The award—a beautifully crafted Swiss cowbell—served as a symbolic and heartfelt acknowledgment of her impactful work. As cows are important symbols of Swiss culture, the cowbell also signifies leadership and connection to Switzerland’s rich traditions.
Reflecting on the honor, Ms. Hafezi remarked with humor and gratitude, “I could use a little more cowbell,” adding, “If helping children results in a cowbell, then the only prescription is more cowbell.” She also emphasized her pride in representing Switzerland and its values on the international stage, stating, “We will continue to foster partnerships that transcend borders.”
A key reason for Ms. Hafezi receiving this honor was her leadership in spearheading a local Uzbek keratoconus screening initiative. In collaboration with non-governmental organizations, the program provided vision screenings for 117 families, identifying three children with keratoconus who subsequently received medical consultations and advice. These efforts, along with her leadership in launching the National Eye Institute Tashkent, a philanthropic impact investment by the MESCA Foundation, underscore her dedication to advancing eye healthcare in underserved communities.
Ms. Hafezi’s contributions were also featured during prime time on ZAMON TV, showcasing the broader healthcare, education, and cultural partnerships fostered during the Swiss Days event.
As a graduate of ETH Zürich and the University of Bern, Ms. Hafezi credited Switzerland’s education system for preparing her to meet the challenges of launching initiatives like the National Eye Institute Tashkent. She expressed deep gratitude for the Swiss learning values she has embraced and now promotes, both in her professional life and as a parent, choosing a Swiss educational path for her own children.
Her work highlights the meaningful role Swiss organizations can play in fostering international collaboration, addressing critical health issues, and promoting education and innovation.
“We are proud to represent Switzerland and its values on such an international stage,” noted Ms. Hafezi, adding, “We will continue to foster partnerships that transcend borders.”
