Stories from Our Federal Employees

United States Agency for International Development (USAID)

Three former USAID employees share stories from their global missions and discuss their humanitarian, economic, and diplomatic accomplishments.

In celebration of the U.S. 250th anniversary, current and former federal employees share their public service experiences, highlighting careers, agency missions, and behind-the-scenes work.

Hanane Zelouani Idrissi has over 15 years of experience in public service supporting U.S. foreign assistance programs, specializing in humanitarian assistance, democracy, and civil society strengthening initiatives across the MENA region and other complex operating environments. 

Mohib Ahmed spent more than 15 years in public service at the USAID. As a foreign service officer and U.S. diplomat, he served overseas in Indonesia, Zambia, Nigeria, Kosovo, and Fiji. His work included improving health services, expanding access to urban water and sanitation, and securing private sector partnerships with U.S. businesses. 

Kent Benson spent more than 15 years in public service at the USAID. As a foreign service officer and U.S. diplomat, he served overseas in Latin America, the Caribbean, East and Southern Africa. His work included improving health services, expanding access to vaccines, and preventing malaria and HIV, as well as operational management. His last role with USAID was as the Deputy Chief Operations Officer responsible for dismantling the agency in 2025.

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