Mahnaz Khazen Shadman, widely recognized among her peers as MK, serves as the CEO of Howzing, a nonprofit public charity that provides innovative housing solutions for low- and no-income individuals, including immigrants and underserved communities. Driven by a deep passion for creating equitable opportunities, MK has dedicated her career to tackling the critical need for safe, affordable housing. Howzing represents the culmination of her extensive experience in real estate development and her lifelong commitment to addressing social challenges through strategic innovation.

MK’s professional journey has been marked by her ability to develop transformative housing solutions and implement sustainable models that empower immigrant populations to build better futures. Her philanthropic efforts have spanned decades, supporting numerous charities and organizations both within the United States and internationally. In her work with Howzing, MK collaborates closely with public and private stakeholders to deliver end-to-end housing solutions that emphasize dignity and community revitalization.

Before her role at Howzing, MK served as the Chief Operating Officer at Royal Emerald Pharmaceuticals, a leading scientific establishment focused on developing cannabinoid-based products addressing unmet medical needs such as PTSD, end-of-life depression, chronic pain, and wound care. Royal Emerald operates under a DEA-granted license and specializes in manufacturing cannabinoids for FDA-approved research and development. As COO, MK’s leadership extended across all facets of the company’s operations, including chairing the Royal Emerald Health Foundation, which prioritized urgent care access for underserved communities.

A recognized thought leader, MK was appointed by San Jose Mayor Chuck Reed to his transition committee and economic council, where her expertise influenced housing and economic development strategies. Her extensive professional qualifications include certifications as a Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM), Certified Property Manager (CPM), and Member of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (MRICS), as well as licensure as a California Broker. MK also holds a Ph.D. in Economic and Industrial System Modeling from Dubna International University.

Her academic foundation is further bolstered by her education at Cornell University in Commercial Real Estate Management and leadership training through CCIM’s (JWL) “Leadership Excellence” program. MK’s innovative approaches in EB-5 investment models, particularly as the CEO of the US Immigration Investment Center and President of California Regional Center, have been recognized by The Washington Post and The Washington Business Journal for supporting U.S. small businesses and community job creation.

Among her accolades, MK has been named one of Silicon Valley’s 100 Most Influential Women in Business by the Silicon Valley Business Journal and ranked among the Top 35 Women of Influence by both Real Estate Forum and Globe St. She has also been honored with the 2016 Medal of Science in Social Impact Investment Models by the American-Russian Academy of Sciences and the 2015 President’s Award of Excellence from the Institute of Real Estate Management.

MK’s legacy lies in her unwavering commitment to empowering communities, fostering opportunities for immigrants, and advocating for sustainable housing solutions. Her impactful career and dedication to excellence continue to inspire both the business and philanthropic sectors.