Board of Directors

Tarlan Ahmadov, Founder

I am a proud Azerbaijani-American who immigrated with my wife in 2003. I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to rebuild my new home in Maine, and to build a successful and exciting career in refugee resettlement and workforce management. Both my wife and I immigrated to this country with very big hopes and aspirations to fulfill the great “American Dream” for our family.

As founder of the Azerbaijan Society of Maine, my biggest hope is to celebrate and promote Azerbaijan culture in Maine and to serve newly arriving folks, giving them hope for a brighter future of their own. For me, serving my community is a worship to God, and I strive to contribute to betterment of this world.

Mahir Hasanov

Mahir Hasanov, Vice President

I’m originally from Baku, Azerbaijan, and moved to Maine in 2011. I enjoy volunteering in my spare time and giving back to the community. It’s been a privilege and an honor to serve on the board of the Azerbaijan Society of Maine. I’m grateful that ASM gives us the opportunity to celebrate and represent my home country. In my free time, I love to travel and see all the beauty that this world has to offer. However, it’s always nice to return to Maine, my second home.

Nazrin Dixon, Treasurer

My journey to the United States started in 1998, when I first came here as an exchange student in high school. I fell in love with this country and had the privilege to be educated at Colorado College. I have since traveled and worked extensively across the US, before ultimately settling in Maine in 2008. I am also a mother of a beautiful 15-year-old daughter.

I currently work as a VP for First National Wealth Management, a Trust and Investment Division of First National Bank. I serve on several non-profit boards in Maine, including the Azerbaijan Society of Maine’s board. It is my privilege and duty as an Azerbaijani American to serve on this board. My goal is to educate and spread awareness about Azerbaijan and its rich culture. I am proud to be an Azerbaijani American.

Musa Mehdiyev, Secretary

I moved to Portland, Maine, in 2023 with my family, drawn to the beauty and welcoming spirit of this incredible state. The Azerbaijan Society of Maine has played an essential role in helping me settle and build my life here. I am deeply grateful for the support I have received and feel a strong desire to give back to this wonderful community.

As a member of the ASM board, I am committed to fostering connections among Azerbaijani families and promoting our rich cultural heritage. I believe in the power of community and aim to contribute to initiatives that support integration for newcomers in Maine.

In my spare time, I enjoy exploring Maine's natural beauty and participating in local events that celebrate our diverse cultures.

Zemfira Ahmadova

My journey to the United States began when my husband and I moved to Maine in 2003. While embracing our American life, we have kept our Azerbaijani heritage alive in our hearts and homes. We are proud parents to two young adult children, born in the U.S., whom we have raised to embrace their Azerbaijani roots. I am passionate about sharing the beauty of Azerbaijani culture with our local community, whether through traditional celebrations or delicious cuisine.

As a proud member of the Azerbaijani Society of Maine, I look forward to continue celebrating our heritage, and promoting understanding within the state of Maine and beyond.