Rinatm
New member
For over 20 years, I dedicated my career to developing information systems, enhancing government transparency, and promoting open data. My journey took me through various international development projects, including my most recent role as an Open Data Specialist for a USAID-funded rule of law project. I worked on embedding AI into legal frameworks, training judges, and improving government service delivery with digital solutions. It was fulfilling work—until, suddenly, it wasn’t.
When the USAID stop-work order came into effect, I found myself unemployed overnight. The project I had poured my expertise into was halted, and my position, along with many others, was no longer needed. The uncertainty hit hard. After spending years advocating for transparency, innovation, and better governance, I was now on the other side—searching for stability in a situation beyond my control.
Adapting to this new reality has been challenging. I’ve had to rethink my career path, explore freelancing, consulting, and AI opportunities, and learn how to market my skills outside of donor-funded programs. But I refuse to let this setback define me. I know that my experience in IT, AI, and open data can still make an impact, even if I need to find new ways to apply it.
If you’re reading this and have also been affected by layoffs, you’re not alone. Let’s share our experiences, support one another, and find new opportunities together. We built solutions for others—now it’s time to rebuild our own futures.
Connect with me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rmirzaitov
When the USAID stop-work order came into effect, I found myself unemployed overnight. The project I had poured my expertise into was halted, and my position, along with many others, was no longer needed. The uncertainty hit hard. After spending years advocating for transparency, innovation, and better governance, I was now on the other side—searching for stability in a situation beyond my control.
Adapting to this new reality has been challenging. I’ve had to rethink my career path, explore freelancing, consulting, and AI opportunities, and learn how to market my skills outside of donor-funded programs. But I refuse to let this setback define me. I know that my experience in IT, AI, and open data can still make an impact, even if I need to find new ways to apply it.
If you’re reading this and have also been affected by layoffs, you’re not alone. Let’s share our experiences, support one another, and find new opportunities together. We built solutions for others—now it’s time to rebuild our own futures.
Connect with me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rmirzaitov