Among immigrants with a college degree, 20 percent have a low-skill (bottom third) occupation, compared to 7 percent of natives.
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Global immigrant women community members
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Speakers who share their expertise and tips with our community
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Unique annual events and trainings to impart skills and inspire confidence
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Immigrant-led sponsor organizations who support our mission
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Passionate volunteers enhancing the experiences of immigrant women
Recognized by Global Publications
Empowering Immigrants to Lead Silicon Valley
Through elegant gatherings and curated experiences, we connect immigrant entrepreneurs with the decision-makers, investors, and mentors who transform careers and businesses.
Our Mission, Goal , Value & Vision
Mission
Building Authentic Connections That Transform Immigrant Leaders Into Influential Decision-Makers
We create meaningful access for immigrant women and expat leaders to the networks that matter most. Through real-world connections with Fortune 500 executives, successful entrepreneurs, and investors, we accelerate business growth, career advancement, and leadership development. Because cold messages don't work—authentic relationships do
Goal
Creating the World's Most Connected Community Where Immigrant Leaders Rise Together
Our platform connects immigrant women and expat leaders through elegant gatherings and professional training programs. We're building an ecosystem where global founders access funding, immigrant executives find mentorship, and decision-makers discover partnership opportunities through meaningful, long-term relationships that drive collective success.
Value
Where Connection Becomes Capital and Relationships Drive Recognition
Through sophisticated events, executive mentorship, and strategic partnerships, immigrant women and expat leaders transform isolation into influence. Our distinguished community ensures no immigrant navigates alone—turning shared experiences into mutual support, collaboration into investment opportunities, and networks into the foundation for lasting prosperity.
Vision
To be a trusted hub for global immigrants seeking support, career guidance, and inspiration.
Through sophisticated events, executive mentorship, and strategic partnerships, immigrant women and expat leaders transform isolation into influence. Our distinguished community ensures no immigrant navigates alone—turning shared experiences into mutual support, collaboration into investment opportunities, and networks into the foundation for lasting prosperity.
We’ve Been Helping Immigrants Build Thriving Careers Since 2018
We’re excited to help others with their career journeys. But first, let us share ours with you…
2010
Coming to America
Our founder, Aytakin Aliyeva, left behind family, friends, and a well-paying job at an oil company in Azerbaijan to move to the United States. At the age of 30, she was passionate about social media marketing and came to study it at a graduate program of Middle Tennessee State University.
Read MorePlanting the Seeds
Aytakin moved to California for an internship at New American Media, a nonprofit organization where she learned about the experiences of diverse ethnic groups, immigrant issues, and more.
Read More2011
2012
The Struggle to Succeed
Eager to join the American workforce, Aytakin tried unsuccessfully to get a job that matched her experience. Despite having a successful career in her former country, she struggled to find gainful employment in the U.S. and had no choice but to go door-to-door in search of low-paying jobs in San Francisco.
Read MoreA Career Hiatus for Family Time
Aytakin and her immigrant husband had two children and felt increased pressure to level up their careers. There was no one to support or share Aytakin’s ups and downs, and the gap in her career plummeted her confidence in applying for better jobs.
Read More2013-2015
2015-2016
Experiencing American Workplace Culture
After encouragement from a potential employer who urged her to apply for jobs that matched her experience and interests, Aytakin finally landed her first tech job at a Bay Area startup. She quickly noticed a lack of work-life balance and struggled to thrive as a breastfeeding mother with 24/7 work commitments. Her next job at a Fortune 500 Tech company offered a better balance and access to a diverse pool of talented leaders from around the world.
Read MoreSearching for Answers
As she continued rising in her career, Aytakin began wondering if she was the only immigrant struggling both financially and mentally due to a lack of support. She decided to interview other immigrant women in STEM and business to learn about their journeys. Publishing these stories on social media led to widespread interest and empathy, with many women reaching out to share their inspiring stories.
Read More2017
2018-2019
A New Community is Born
To harness the power of this emerging community, Aytakin built an online platform for female immigrants. This Facebook group rapidly gained popularity, with hundreds of new members joining each week. Buoyed by its popularity, Aytakin registered Femigrants as a benefit corporation and went on to plan more than 30 events. The vibrant Femigrants community grew from just 10 members to more than 4000 and was featured in Forbes and other international news media.
Read MoreExciting Things Ahead!
After a pause in activities due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Femigrants was relaunched as a non-profit. In March of 2023, we were delighted to hold our first in-person event since the pandemic. The vibrant community is going strong, with over 5500 members and a wonderful team of talented volunteers.
As founder, Aytakin was recognized as a Woman Changing the World with double Gold awards for Migrant Leadership and Cultural Diversity and Inclusion. Femigrants has an expanded advisory board, features on news media channels, and global recognition as an organization that is changing the world. Now, it is poised to help even more immigrant women achieve their career goals through teaching skills in cultural adaptation, career advancement, and more.
Read MoreAs founder, Aytakin was recognized as a Woman Changing the World with double Gold awards for Migrant Leadership and Cultural Diversity and Inclusion. Femigrants has an expanded advisory board, features on news media channels, and global recognition as an organization that is changing the world. Now, it is poised to help even more immigrant women achieve their career goals through teaching skills in cultural adaptation, career advancement, and more.
2023
Today
Femigrants remains committed to the success of every member. With more than 5,500 members around the globe, we’re just getting started on our mission to make a lasting difference. Whether you’re looking to pursue your dreams as an immigrant, or you’re an ally to the cause, we rely on your support to champion change.
If you’re an ambitious woman who shares our vision, we’re excited to welcome you to the community.
Read MoreIf you’re an ambitious woman who shares our vision, we’re excited to welcome you to the community.
- About
Aytakin Aliyeva
"I don't want other immigrants to experience what I experienced. For that reason, I built this powerful community of successful immigrant and expat leaders to open doors for immigrants who are looking for ways to tap into networks for mentorship, partnership, sponsorship, or just friendship opportunities.";
Follow Aytakin
From Begging for Low-Paid Jobs to Forbes-Featured Community Builder
The Story and experience of Aytakin Aliyeva
At Femigrants Foundation, transformation begins with access to the networks that truly matter. We connect immigrants with decision-makers, mentors, and sponsors who understand the immigrant journey. The word Femigrants stands for female immigrants. Our community was founded by Aytakin Aliyeva, who moved to Silicon Valley with just $300 and no access to the executive networks that could accelerate her career.
Despite leading a successful career in her home country, Aytakin found herself in the devastating position of begging for low-paid jobs in America. Without connections to guide her path, it took her five years to secure her first corporate role that matched her experience and background. The isolation, rejections, and closed doors she faced became the catalyst for building something transformational.
Aytakin believes that cold messages don’t always work. Real success comes from connecting immigrants with decision makers in meaningful ways that build long-term relationships in real life. These relationships lead to partnership, collaboration, investment, and sponsorship opportunities.
What started as one woman’s determination has become a prestigious global network.
Through elegant gatherings and distinguished professional training programs, we curate environments where immigrant leaders feel valued, welcomed, and celebrated.
Together, we are building an ecosystem where global leaders don’t navigate alone. We rise together through the power of authentic connection, shared wisdom, and mutual support.
Build Real Connections That Transform Careers
Many immigrant founders, entrepreneurs, and expat leaders face barriers—not from lack of skill, but from lack of access to the networks that truly matter. Cold messages don't work. Real relationships do. Femigrants bridges that gap.
Join Our Community
Unlock Access That Transforms Your Success
Immigrant women and expat leaders connect with powerful C-level decision-makers and industry influencers at Femigrants events. Our elegant gatherings are designed to foster genuine, lasting professional relationships.
Join Our CommunityBorn from an immigrant's struggle.
For every immigrant woman determined to succeed.
Global Founders
Gain access to immigrant investors and VCs funding diverse founders, building meaningful relationships that elevate credibility, secure funding opportunities, and scale ventures through our curated, high-impact events.
Immigrant Entrepreneurs
Grow your business, expand partnerships, and gain recognition through elegant networking experiences and training designed for authentic relationship-building and community success.
Expat Leaders
Connect at professional networking forums to enhance influence, unlock career growth, and secure promotions through exclusive mentorship and leadership development opportunities.
Connect with Silicon Valley's top global leaders.
Build partnerships that transform your trajectory.
Upcoming Events
Connect Your Brand With 20,000+ Immigrant Leaders
Amplify your brand while advancing equity. Sponsor Femigrants events and connect your company with 10,000+ immigrant entrepreneurs, tech professionals, and business leaders. Our partnership opportunities deliver meaningful ROI through targeted visibility, authentic community engagement, and access to diverse talent pipelines that strengthen your organization and drive innovation.
Explore SponsorshipBuild Your Authority Globally
Increase your visibility and establish yourself as a thought leader by speaking at Femigrants events. Share your expertise with 10,000+ immigrant entrepreneurs, tech professionals, and business leaders while building your personal brand and expanding your executive network. Speaking at our events positions you as an industry authority and opens doors to new partnerships and opportunities.
Support Our Work
Our previous elegant events
Connect With Successful Immigrants
Gain direct access to accomplished immigrant founders, Fortune 500 executives, and expat leaders while volunteering with Femigrants. You'll build valuable professional connections, develop leadership skills, and learn from successful entrepreneurs while supporting a mission-driven community. Volunteering gives you networking opportunities and hands-on experience that accelerates your own career growth.
Volunteer With UsDiscover How Our Members Have Transformed Their Careers, Companies, and Confidence Through Our Professional Networking and Elegant Events
“
It was a pleasure to be surrounded by beautiful women with purpose! Thank you Aytakin for your energy and mission to gather so much potential with women for supporting each other!.”
★★★★★
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What a powerful group of strong women working towards helping other women. I had the privilege of meeting some amazing ladies who each bring strengths that are fantastic and inspiring to each other! I was able to share my story and make some fantastic connections, and I hope to bring to the table as much help as I can for other immigrant women.! A great cause to work for! Founder, Aytakin, so proud of what you have undertaken!”
★★★★★
“
Wow ! What a pleasure to have attended this event and met fellow femigrants ! There is power and healing in sisterhood, and it felt so great to be a part of this wonderful community of loving, accomplished , big hearted women ! Can’t wait to continue some of these beautiful connections & attend the next event. Thanks Aytakin Aliyeva🌛 for creating such a safe, authentic and uplifting space for all ! 💕”
★★★★★
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“It was truly inspiring to listen to diverse stories and gather valuable tips and advice from individuals who have walked the same path I am on right now. The event offered a unique experience for personal growth and professional development. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Femigrants Foundation for providing this fantastic opportunity to connect with incredible people.”
★★★★★
“
The event was an absolute gem in the bustling landscape of Silicon Valley. As an attendee, I found myself immersed in an atmosphere brimming with inspiration and encouragement. It wasnt just a meeting; it was a melting pot of shared experiences, dreams, and aspirations. The event’s emphasis on learning and growth was like a beacon of hope, lighting the way for those navigating the intricate paths of professional success. The encouraging and inclusive environment made it a haven for knowledge seekers, eager networkers, and those craving a supportive community in a dynamic, ever-evolving tech hub like Silicon Valley”
★★★★★
See How We’re Transforming Lives by Helping Women Build Their Careers…
Hi, I’m Aytakin…
Award-Winning Founder of Femigrants
As an immigrant myself, I know firsthand the struggle to find a fulfilling job that matches your skills and experience in a new country. Despite having experience in a well-paying job back in my home country and a graduate degree from the U.S. I still had a tough time breaking into a career that would allow me to use my full potential.
One of my biggest mistakes when arriving to the U.S. was starting from the ground up by applying to low-paid jobs. I did many jobs that I was far too overqualified for; receptionist, babysitter, eldercare, and retail to name a few. Worried about our financial future, I even found myself going door-to-door asking restaurants to hire my husband as a waiter or busboy, despite graduating Social Media Marketing in America.
I discovered that looking for job opportunities while being on a visa would be more challenging than I anticipated. What I learned through this experience was that the competition was fierce and only a few companies were willing to sponsor visas.
Even after finding a better job, when I became a mother, my mental health suffered further as I struggled with balancing challenges of breastfeeding with a demanding work schedule. Despite landing a full-time job, I still noticed bias towards immigrants, especially regarding visa restrictions and intricacies. When I learned other immigrants face a similar struggle without access to resources or guidance, I decided to create a sisterhood of support.
Today, Femigrants helps women immigrants of all ethnicities, cultures, and professional backgrounds succeed by fostering meaningful relationships. In 2021, 10% of noncitizen workers with a college degree were employed in service jobs, compared with 6% of U.S.-born workers. This shows we still have plenty of work to do to put immigrant women on an equal playing-field. That change can only happen when we work together and is only possible with your support.
Support Our WorkOur Vision
To be a trusted hub for global immigrants seeking support, career guidance, and inspiration.
Our Mission
To help immigrant women achieve their professional goals and successfully integrate themselves into modern society.
SUPPORT OUR MISSION
Behind every sophisticated gathering, every meaningful connection, and every immigrant leader's success story is a community of visionary partners who understand that authentic change requires authentic investment. We're not asking for charity—we're inviting you into a movement that delivers measurable outcomes for everyone involved.
From Isolation to Influence Your Journey Starts Here
Connect with immigrant women who turned ambition into global impact
Femigrants is a global platform that connects immigrant women and expat leaders to the authentic relationships they need to thrive. Many founders, business owners, and professionals face barriers not from lack of skill, but from lack of access to the networks that truly matter. Cold messages don't work. Real relationships do. Femigrants was built to bridge that gap.
THE GLOBAL LEADERS WE CHAMPION
We champion three groups of immigrant women shaping the future of business and leadership:
Global Founders
We provide direct access to investors, funding opportunities, and executive networks through meaningful connections that raise their credibility and help them scale their ventures.
Immigrant Business Owners
We deliver sophisticated networking and training programs that help them expand their revenue, gain strategic partnerships, and build recognition through authentic relationship-building.
Expat Tech Leaders and Professionals
We offer mentorship, leadership development, and opportunities that enhance their influence, lead to promotions, board positions, and lasting impact in their industries.
What makes Femigrants unique is authentic access to C-level immigrant leaders, decision-makers, and industry influencers. These are connections that cold outreach simply cannot achieve. Our members gain this access through elegant networking events, professional training programs, and intimate gatherings designed for long-term relationship building.
By joining Femigrants, immigrant women and expat leaders transform isolation into influence, building the meaningful connections that accelerate their businesses and careers.
Are You Ready to Build the Career of Your Dreams in the USA?
Maybe you’re a new arrival wondering where to start when it comes to the job search and application process. Or, perhaps you need support with negotiating a promotion or landing a senior-level role you know you’re qualified for. Whatever the situation, our network of women business leaders can help.
