An Interview with Tajila Mullahkhel on Science, Self-Reliance, and the Strength of Family

Tajila Mullahkhel is a dynamic chemical engineer, entrepreneur, and mother whose journey spans continents and disciplines. Born in Afghanistan and raised in Pakistan during her early years, she immigrated to the United States as a teenager—a transition that marked the beginning of her academic and professional ascent. Tajila earned her degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Utah, where she also contributed to biomimetics research and taught Pashto language courses.

She later applied her expertise at Fresenius Medical Care, where she held roles in sustaining engineering and project management. Now self-employed, Tajila Mullahkhel remains driven by a deep-rooted commitment to innovation, education, and family. Outside her professional life, she is a passionate advocate of a healthy lifestyle, enjoys running, walking, and baking with her children, and quietly contributes to philanthropic causes. Her life story is a powerful blend of resilience, intellectual curiosity, and cultural pride—qualities that continue to shape her journey and the communities she touches.

You moved from Afghanistan to the U.S. as a teen. How did that transition influence your identity and aspirations? 

The transition was both jarring and enlightening. Coming from Afghanistan and spending my early years in Pakistan, I grew up with a strong sense of cultural rootedness and family. When I arrived in the U.S., I was suddenly immersed in a new language, culture, and educational system. While the initial adjustment was tough—navigating high school as a newcomer—I found strength in education. It became my path to adaptation and ambition. It taught me adaptability and perseverance, and those lessons continue to guide my life and work.

Why did you choose to study Chemical Engineering, and how has that shaped your worldview? 

Chemical engineering is the intersection of logic, creativity, and real-world impact. I’ve always been fascinated by how things work—from chemical reactions to systems design. Studying it taught me to think systematically, solve complex problems, and approach challenges with discipline. It also gave me the tools to pursue diverse opportunities—from academic research in biomimetics to hands-on engineering in healthcare. It’s a lens through which I see both problems and possibilities.

You worked in biomimetics research. Can you tell us what that involved and why it excited you? 

Biomimetics is about learning from nature to design better systems. In my research role, we explored how biological structures—like lotus leaves or gecko feet—could inspire more efficient materials or surfaces. It was fascinating to blend biology, chemistry, and physics in one project. What I loved most was the humility it instilled: nature is the ultimate engineer. That perspective influenced how I approach problem-solving across disciplines.

At Fresenius Medical Care, you held engineering and project management roles. What did you take away from your time there? 

It was a very hands-on, practical environment. I was involved in sustaining engineering, which meant solving issues in real-time, improving product performance, and managing interdisciplinary teams. The project management side required communication skills and agility—especially in a healthcare setting where stakes are high. It taught me how to translate technical skills into collaborative leadership. That experience has served me well in self-employment.

How has your identity as a mother shaped your approach to both work and life? 

Motherhood is my greatest teacher. It grounds me, keeps me focused, and reinforces my values. Being a mother in a technical field can be challenging—you juggle deadlines with dinner, team meetings with school events—but it also brings perspective. I want my children to see that passion and responsibility can coexist. Baking with them or going on walks is as meaningful as any professional milestone.

You’ve taught Pashto at the University of Utah. What did language teaching bring to your journey? 

Teaching Pashto was a way to reconnect with my roots and share my culture. Language isn’t just communication—it’s identity, memory, and history. In the classroom, I wasn’t just teaching vocabulary; I was opening a window into Afghan heritage. It was a privilege and also a reminder that our native languages hold power. It helped me balance my scientific side with a deep cultural dimension.

You’ve said you do charity in privacy. Why is that important to you? 

For me, charity isn’t about recognition—it’s about intention. Growing up, I saw how even small acts of kindness could mean everything to someone. I carry that with me, and I teach my kids the same. Giving privately preserves the dignity of both the giver and the receiver. It’s a personal expression of gratitude for what I’ve been given.

How do you maintain a healthy lifestyle in the midst of a busy schedule? 

Routine and mindset. Running, walking, and jogging aren’t just physical activities for me—they’re rituals of clarity and balance. I make time, even if it’s just 20 minutes a day. I also involve my children so it becomes a family habit. Physical health supports mental resilience, especially in a high-responsibility life. I consider it non-negotiable.

What role does travel play in your personal development? 

Travel reminds me how beautifully diverse and interconnected our world is. Every place has lessons—whether it’s about food, culture, or values. It challenges your assumptions and inspires empathy. For me, it’s also a way to recharge and introduce my children to different ways of living and thinking. It’s education in motion.

What do you want your legacy to be—for your children, your community, and your field? 

I want to be remembered as someone who lived with integrity, gave back quietly, and never stopped learning. For my children, I hope to model courage and curiosity. For my community, I want to be a bridge—between cultures, disciplines, and generations. And in my field, I want to represent the idea that engineers can be deeply human, and that women—especially from immigrant backgrounds—belong at the forefront of innovation.

Have you read?
The World’s Best Medical Schools.
The World’s Best Universities.
The World’s Best International High Schools.
The World’s Best Business Schools.
The World’s Best Fashion Schools.
The World’s Best Hospitality And Hotel Management Schools.