Shefa'a Tawil

AFI Intern fall 2025
Biography

Shefa’a Tawil is a Palestinian-American undergraduate at the University of Iowa pursuing a BS in psychology on the pre-medicine track, with certificates in writing and public health and minors in Arabic and music. She has served in leadership roles across campus that demonstrate her commitment to social advocacy, including serving as president of the Middle East and North African Student Association (MENASA), participating as a constituency senator in the University of Iowa Undergraduate Student Government, and volunteering with refugees. Shefa’a is drawn to the Anne Frank Initiative because it encourages reflection on identity, resilience, and hope in the face of persecution—themes that continue to resonate around the world today. She hopes to contribute to AFI through projects that foster connection across cultures and connect with communities who resonate with Anne’s legacy.


 

Shefaa tawil headshot
Education
University of Iowa