Her Story
About Fareeha
Fareeha Nayebare is an Accounting Finance Specialist Intern at Sabin Community Development Corporation (Sabin CDC) in Portland, Oregon, where she is beginning her professional journey in accounting and finance. She recently completed her associate’s degree in Accounting from Portland Community College, building a strong foundation in financial practices, organizational leadership, and business operations. As an international student from Uganda and a Rotary Youth Exchange alumna, Fareeha has embraced opportunities to grow academically and professionally while bringing a global perspective to her work and community involvement.
Before starting her career in finance, Fareeha demonstrated exceptional leadership and advocacy through her service as a Student Trustee and Student Government President at Portland Community College, where she represented students on the Board of Directors and contributed to conversations surrounding governance, policy, and student success. She has also been actively involved with Rotary International through the Rotary Club of Forest Grove, an organization that supported her journey since she was 17. Her commitment to service extends through student advocacy, community engagement, and volunteer leadership focused on creating opportunities for others.
Beyond her professional and academic achievements, Fareeha is passionate about writing, reading, and sharing stories that inspire others. She hopes to one day publish a book about her personal journey and experiences, using her story to encourage people who may feel unheard or uncertain about their own paths. Guided by her Muslim faith, family values, resilience, and dedication to hard work, Fareeha continues to pursue her goal of becoming a community leader who empowers others through service, leadership, and authenticity.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Fareeha
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the support of the Rotary Club of Forest Grove, my mother, and the entire community that has believed in me throughout my journey. Since I was 17, Rotary has supported me through college and beyond, becoming like family and providing guidance, encouragement, and opportunities. My mother has also been my greatest inspiration, reminding me that success is not just about where you are, but how far you have come. Coming from a single-parent household, I am proud of the progress I have made, and I recognize that my achievements are a reflection of everyone who has supported and believed in me.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received came from my mother: “You are not crying because you are weak. You are crying because you have been strong for too long, and now you need to let it out.” Moving to the United States came with many challenges, including homesickness, missing my family, and facing moments when I felt like I had reached my limits. My mother reminded me that it is okay to pause, feel overwhelmed, and allow myself to be vulnerable. What matters most is having the courage to stand back up, keep moving forward, and continue pursuing my goals.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering my industry is to be willing to try and take opportunities, even when they feel challenging. You can never lose something that is truly meant for you, so do not be afraid to take the first step. There will be moments when you fail or face obstacles, but those experiences are part of the journey. Keep working hard, stay determined, and remember that failure is not the end—it is often what helps guide you closer to achieving your goals.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest opportunities in my field right now are the chances to grow, learn, and build meaningful partnerships. As a student and intern, I have been able to gain valuable experience, expand my knowledge, and connect with professionals who help me develop both personally and professionally. I am currently working on potential partnerships with different organizations and collaborating with colleagues to create new opportunities. I am excited to continue learning, building relationships, and seeing how these experiences shape my growth in the year ahead.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in my work and personal life are my faith, determination, and commitment to hard work. As a Muslim, my religion plays an important role in guiding my actions, decisions, and the way I treat others. I also value perseverance and growth, because many experiences in my life have shaped who I am today. Although I am only 20 years old, I have learned to approach life with maturity, responsibility, and a strong desire to continue improving myself and reaching my goals.
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