The People of NASA: Meet Nilufar Ramji, Public Affairs Officer at Johnson

“Transparency, quality, fairness, and diversity of thought are all important to me. People come from different experiences that broaden our perspective.” 

Driven by a deep-rooted desire to change the world, Ramji worked at the Aga Khan Foundation in Canada and in East Africa. This nonprofit organization addresses the challenges underdeveloped communities face in Asia and Africa. Focusing on social and rural development, the foundation strives to make a difference in the education and healthcare sectors. 

Ramji lived and worked in Kenya and Tanzania for nearly two years as the foundation’s sole communications representative across three countries, where she spent some time training a team of over 300 staff. Her insightful approach to communication underscored the immense value it brings to drive positive change. “My work led me to create a communication strategy and give each team member an understanding of how to capture success stories,” she said. “Development takes time, and you need investment for it to go well. The idea was don't just talk about the good, talk about the bad and ugly as well.” Through her hard work, Ramji left an indelible mark on the communities she touched. Ramji's unwavering dedication and resilience are prime examples of how one person can make a significant difference in the lives of others.

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In 2013, Ramji came to America and started from scratch to reestablish her network and career. In her first three years in Houston, Texas, she worked for the Aga Khan Council for USA. There, she managed a volunteer recruitment program for thousands of people to ensure their skills aligned with the tasks available. Ramji went on to apply for a contractor position, not knowing it was for NASA. “I never thought my skills or expertise would be valued at a place like NASA,” she said. In 2018, she accepted a position as a public relations specialist supporting International Space Station outreach at Johnson. 

Ramji continued to engage and inspire the public with the wonders of space exploration. Six months later, she was responsible for implementing communications activities for STEM Engagement programs across the agency as the lead communications strategist. This pivotal role allowed her to shape how NASA communicated with its younger audience, ensuring the agency's message resonated effectively. 

 

Ramji emphasizes the importance of effective time management, networking, and stepping outside one's comfort zone to excel in her career and reach new heights. “Discomfort brings new learning, understanding, and opportunities, so I like being uncomfortable at times,” she said.   

 

Recognizing the importance of balance, she understands that it is not just about finding time but rather creating compartmentalized moments dedicated to reflection and purposeful engagement. This agile mindset enables her to adapt to the ever-evolving demands of her role, ensuring that her contributions remain impactful and aligned with NASA's mission. Ramji is always focused on improving herself. “I'm open and receptive to feedback,” she said. “Constructive criticism will help me grow and evolve. Taking that information and using it to my advantage has helped me be successful and understand what NASA does as an agency.” 

 

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Ramji's current role at NASA involves communicating about scientific research on the Moon and how it will benefit humanity on Earth as we prepare to go beyond low Earth orbit. She is responsible for weaving narratives that will inspire future generations who will witness unprecedented lunar exploration. “Being one of the storytellers behind the first woman and person of color landing on the Moon is something I take pride in,” she said. “People don't realize what exploring our solar system has done for us here on Earth. Going to the Moon and onto Mars will bring that message home.” Ramji appreciates the significance of long-term presence in space exploration, as it will pave the way for sustainable life beyond Earth and unravel the secrets of our universe's formation. 

 

Ramji also witnessed an evolution in the commercialization of low Earth orbit over the past few years. “It's exciting to see how many different people and organizations come together to make this a reality,” she said. “By creating a larger space economy, we're able to do things faster and cheaper and still accomplish the same goals to make sure we're all successful.”  

As a woman of color, Ramji tells others who understand the sacrifices made, “Don't box yourself in. Don't feel like just because you're a minority, you don't belong there. You belong anywhere you want to be.” However, Ramji appreciates the changing landscape at NASA, where diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility are prioritized. “I have great mentors and people I can lean on if I need help. It's something I didn't realize I had until I came to NASA.”

Ramji's journey represents NASA's commitment to pushing boundaries, celebrating diversity, and expanding our knowledge of the universe. Her expertise in science communication and dedication to advancing our understanding of the universe is unparalleled. Ramji is a leader who shows that with transparency, collaboration, and a shared vision, the Moon, Mars, and more are well within our reach.