.png)
With teammates from various backgrounds and experiences in the agrifood systems sector, the Chapter was started by a strong core team associated with the Ministry of Agriculture in Azerbaijan.
Sakina Rustamova is the Country Representative of the YPARD Azerbaijan Chapter, leading national efforts to empower young professionals, drive agricultural innovation, and foster youth-led agri-food systems transformation. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Science in Biology (taught in English) at Western Caspian University, specializing in molecular biology, genetics, biostatistics, and bioinformatics, while bridging life sciences with advanced data analytics and strategic planning.
At the core of her practical work is her contribution to the AgroLab Project under the Agrarian Development Volunteers. Serving as a Data Analyst and Project Participant, Sakina collects and evaluates agricultural performance data across regional farms using Excel, Microsoft Power BI, and Python. Her research identifies key crop yield patterns and operational insights, which she has directly presented to Ministry representatives to support data-driven policy proposals on agritech adoption and sustainable farm management. In addition, she co-leads field research operations in collaboration with over 15 volunteers.
Beyond her work with the Ministry, Sakina is an active advocate for youth empowerment and scientific development in Azerbaijan. She serves as a volunteer with Agrarian Volunteers and the Azerbaijan Youth House, participating in community-level agricultural initiatives. Recognized for her academic dedication and leadership potential, Sakina is an admitted participant in the prestigious Aspire Institute Leadership Program, certified by EY Power Skill Lab, and an active participant in ESHG & ASHG Certified Genomics Programs. She has also authored published research in Toronto on medical biotechnology commercialization.
As the YPARD Azerbaijan Country Representative, Sakina is dedicated to connecting Azerbaijani youth with international agricultural platforms, mobilizing young professionals, promoting agritech research, and building capacity for the next generation of agri-food leaders across the region.
Kanan Bakhshaliyev is the Co-Country Representative of the YPARD Azerbaijan Chapter, where he contributes to strengthening youth engagement in agriculture, expanding the chapter's activities, and creating opportunities for young professionals to connect, collaborate, and actively participate in sustainable agricultural development.
He is currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Technologies at the Italy-Azerbaijan University. His academic background is complemented by previous studies in Mechatronics and Robotics Engineering, giving him a multidisciplinary perspective that combines engineering, digital innovation, and agricultural sciences. This diverse foundation has inspired his strong interest in precision agriculture, smart farming technologies, digital transformation, and the application of innovative solutions to advance sustainable and resilient agri-food systems.
In addition to his role at YPARD, Kanan is a Project Manager at the Agrarian Development Volunteers Organization. He leads and coordinates youth-focused agricultural initiatives, manages project implementation, develops partnerships with public and private stakeholders, and contributes to capacity-building programs that encourage young people to play an active role in agricultural and rural development across Azerbaijan. Through these initiatives, he promotes innovation, leadership, and community engagement while supporting greater youth participation in the agricultural sector.
Kanan has also gained professional experience as a Finance Intern at PREMIER Non-Bank Credit Institution, where he assisted in evaluating agricultural and SME loan applications, conducted financial and credit analyses, and supported credit risk assessment processes. This experience strengthened his understanding of agricultural finance and rural economic development, providing practical insight into the financial systems that support farmers, agribusinesses, and rural enterprises.
His academic and professional interests include sustainable agriculture, agricultural innovation, climate-smart farming, digital agriculture, youth empowerment, and technology-driven solutions for resilient food systems. He is passionate about fostering collaboration among young professionals, researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to accelerate innovation and support the transition toward more sustainable agricultural practices.
Through his leadership experience, project management work, and dedication to agricultural development, Kanan is committed to empowering the next generation of agricultural leaders, promoting inclusive rural development, and contributing to resilient and sustainable agri-food systems.
Rauf Islamzade is currently studying Economics student at the University of Azerbaijan and will join the team as the Communications and Media Officer of YPARD Azerbaijan, a role that allows him to combine his passion for communication, youth empowerment, and sustainable agricultural development. He strongly believes that effective communication has the power to connect people, inspire action, and create meaningful opportunities for young professionals.
Throughout his academic journey and volunteer experiences, he has actively sought opportunities to develop his communication, leadership, and organizational skills. He has volunteered at several international events, including the World Urban Forum (WUF) and Baku Climate Action Week, where he worked alongside professionals from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds. These experiences strengthened his ability to collaborate within multicultural teams, adapt to dynamic environments, and communicate effectively with participants from around the world.
In addition to his volunteer work, he has gained practical experience in marketing at SKYLIFE Industry, where he contributed to creating engaging content, supporting promotional activities, and improving digital communication strategies. This experience enhanced his understanding of branding, audience engagement, and the importance of delivering clear and impactful messages across different platforms.
As the Communications and Media Officer of YPARD Azerbaijan, his goal is to strengthen the organization’s visibility, promote its activities more effectively, and encourage greater youth participation. He is eager to develop innovative communication strategies, produce engaging digital content, and help build stronger connections between YPARD and young people who are passionate about agriculture, sustainability, and rural innovation.
Beyond his professional interests, he values continuous learning, teamwork, creativity, and personal growth. He believes that every new experience offers an opportunity to improve, broaden perspectives, and contribute more effectively to society. These values motivate him to remain proactive, open-minded, and committed to making a positive impact through his work.
He is excited to be part of this inspiring community and looks forward to learning from each of you, collaborating on meaningful initiatives, and contributing his creativity, enthusiasm, and communication skills to support YPARD Azerbaijan’s mission. Together, he believes we can empower more young people, strengthen our network, and create lasting positive change in agriculture and rural development.
Naringul Seyidbeyli is a fourth-year French Language Teaching student at Azerbaijan State Pedagogical University and a Project Department Intern at Agrarian Development Volunteers (AİK). She is passionate about youth empowerment, education, project management, international cooperation, and sustainable agricultural development. She is committed to creating meaningful opportunities for young people through education, leadership, and community engagement.
As part of the Project Department, Naringul contributes to the planning, coordination, and implementation of youth-focused initiatives and educational projects. She supports activities that promote agricultural development, volunteer engagement, innovation, and leadership among young people. Through her internship, she has gained valuable experience in project coordination, event organization, teamwork, communication, and collaboration with national and international partners. Naringul represented Azerbaijan at the 9th International Scientific Research Symposium hosted by Jizzakh State Pedagogical University in Uzbekistan. During the symposium, she presented her academic research, exchanged ideas with researchers from different countries, and strengthened her understanding of international academic and professional cooperation.
Naringul represented Azerbaijan at the 9th International Scientific Research Symposium hosted by Jizzakh State Pedagogical University in Uzbekistan. During the symposium, she presented her academic research, exchanged ideas with researchers from different countries, and strengthened her understanding of international academic and professional cooperation.
In addition to her academic and professional activities, Naringul is an active member of the YPARD Azerbaijan Chapter. She believes that empowering young professionals and creating strong international networks are essential for the future of agriculture. Her vision is to encourage youth-led innovation, promote knowledge sharing, and strengthen collaboration between young people, institutions, and international organizations. Through her work and continuous learning, Naringul aims to contribute to sustainable agriculture, food security, rural development, and youth participation in decision-making processes. She is eager to further develop her skills, participate in international projects, and make a positive impact through education, innovation, and cross-cultural collaboration.
