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Sera Koulabdara

Partnering with global leaders to raise awareness about the Secret War, advocate for the removal of UXO & provide hope.

Sera Koulabdara is a prominent advocate and leader in the field of post-war recovery and unexploded ordnance (UXO) removal. She currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Legacies of War, the only U.S.-based educational and advocacy organization working to address the impact of conflict in Laos during the Vietnam War era.13

Born in Vientiane, Laos, Sera immigrated to the United States at the age of six and considers Ohio her home.2 She holds a Bachelor's degree in International Business and Marketing from The Ohio State University.1

Professional Experience

Sera has an extensive background in non-profit leadership and advocacy:

  • Chair of the United States Campaign to Ban Landmines & Cluster Munition Coalition (January 2023 - Present)
  • CEO of Legacies of War (January 2023 - Present)
  • Executive Director of Legacies of War (October 2019 - May 2023)

Prior to her work with Legacies of War, Sera held positions at various non-profit organizations, including the American Heart Association, Make-A-Wish Foundation, and United Way of Central Ohio.1

Advocacy and Impact

Under Sera's leadership, Legacies of War has significantly increased U.S. funding for UXO clearance and victim assistance in Laos, from $3 million in 2008 to $30 million in 2017.1 Her work focuses on raising awareness about the history of the Vietnam War-era bombing of Laos, providing space for healing the wounds of war, and creating hope for a peaceful future.13

Personal Background

Sera's passion for her work is deeply rooted in her family history. Her father's experiences during the Secret War in Laos have profoundly influenced her life's mission. She strives to carry on his legacy of love, compassion, and service to others by making a positive impact in Laos.23

Sera is multilingual, with native or bilingual proficiency in Thai, Lao, and English, and varying levels of proficiency in Arabic, Vietnamese, and Spanish.1

Highlights

Jul 19 · legaciesofwar.org
Sera Koulabdara - Legacies of War
Sera Koulabdara - Legacies of War
Oct 12 · article22.com
Sera Koulabdara - Executive Director, Legacies of War - Article22.com
Sera Koulabdara - Executive Director, Legacies of War - Article22.com

Related Questions

What inspired Sera Koulabdara to join Legacies of War?
How has Sera Koulabdara's personal background influenced her work at Legacies of War?
What are some major achievements of Legacies of War under Sera Koulabdara's leadership?
How does Sera Koulabdara collaborate with global leaders in her advocacy work?
What challenges has Sera Koulabdara faced in her role at Legacies of War?
Sera Koulabdara
Sera Koulabdara, photo 1
Sera Koulabdara, photo 2
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Location

Washington, District of Columbia, United States