San Francisco Bay Area Uzbek Community Center Empowers Future With 2025 Scholarship Opportunity
Bay Area Uzbek community organization invests in education for Californian students of Uzbek heritage.
2024 Student Scholarship Program recipient Komila Mahkamjonova receives her award certificate from Uzbek Community Center of the San Francisco Bay Area (UCCSFBA) board members Shakhzod Takhirov and Qudrat Rahimhodzhayev. The scholarship is open to studetns currently attending high school or college in California.
The Uzbek Community Center of the San Francisco Bay Area (UCCSFBA) has been a cornerstone for preserving Uzbek culture while empowering the community through education. Since its founding in 2019, the Center has focused on supporting the Uzbek diaspora, especially in the Bay Area, through cultural events, community initiatives, and educational programs. One of the most impactful initiatives is the UCCSFBA Student Scholarship Program, launched in 2024.
The scholarship program was spearheaded by UCCSFBA Board Member Sharof Tugizov to support the academic success of Uzbek American students. The program aims to recognize students who demonstrate not only academic excellence but also a commitment to their cultural roots and community service. "We want to build a community where our youth are self-empowered through education and artistic expression," Qudrat Rahimhodzhayev, president of UCCSFBA, said.
"We want to build a community where our youth are self-empowered through education and artistic expression.”Qudrat Rahimhodzhayev, president UCCSFBA
In 2024, the inaugural year of the scholarship program, eight applications were received, and two college students were awarded scholarships. For 2025, the program has expanded to offer scholarships to both undergraduate and high school students. Two undergraduate students will receive $1,000 each, while two high school students will be awarded $500 each. This growth reflects the UCCSFBA’s ongoing commitment to providing educational opportunities for Uzbek American youth and supporting their success.
The scholarship is open to students currently attending high school or college in California. Applicants must meet academic criteria: undergraduates must have a GPA of 3.5 or higher, while high school students must maintain "A" or "A+" grades. Additionally, candidates are encouraged to demonstrate involvement in extracurricular activities, community service, or cultural initiatives.
The application process requires a completed online form, résumé, letters of recommendation, and proof of academic achievement. Applicants must also submit a personal statement outlining their academic goals and community engagement. The deadline for submissions is April 30, 2025.
Scholarship recipients from 2024, Komila Mahkamjonova, left, and Bekhzod Ergashev, right. Photos courtesy of UCCSFBA
Recipients of the scholarship will be recognized through direct notifications, a special community event, and features on the UCCSFBA website and social media platforms. Their achievements will also be highlighted in local community newsletters, inspiring other students to pursue their academic and cultural goals.
In 2024, the scholarship program recognized two exceptional students, Komila Mahkamjonova and Bekhzod Ergashev. Both demonstrated outstanding academic records and a commitment to community service. Rahimhodzhayev remarked, “Komila and Bekhzod’s success is a testament to the potential of Uzbek American youth, and their stories inspire others to strive for excellence.”
Looking forward, the UCCSFBA plans to expand the scholarship program further, increasing both the number of recipients and the financial support provided. The Center remains dedicated to nurturing the future leaders of the Uzbek American community.
For more information about the Uzbek Community Center and its programs: Click here
To apply for the 2025 Scholarship Program, visit the official application page here: Click here