Ghazala Hashmi has created history by becoming the first Muslim woman elected in America’s local polls, and this moment brings pride to India, especially Hyderabad.
Born in Hyderabad in 1964, Ghazala spent her early years at her maternal grandparents’ home before moving to the United States with her mother and brother. Her grandfather worked in the finance department in combined Andhra Pradesh.
After settling in Georgia, her father became a university faculty member. Ghazala excelled in academics, earning multiple scholarships. She completed her BA Honours from Georgia Southern University and later received a PhD in International Affairs.
She also earned a PhD in Literature from Emory University in Atlanta. After marrying Azhar, she moved to Richmond in 1991. Ghazala worked as a professor at Reynolds Community College for 30 years.
Her political journey began in 2019 with her first election victory in the US. In 2024, she was appointed Education and Health Committee Chairperson by the Democratic Party. Today, she has reached another milestone as Lieutenant Governor, continuing to inspire many with her achievements.
