Growing up in Dushanbe, Parviz Qayumov often looked up at the sky and dreamed of becoming a pilot. Today, Parviz serves as Head of Marketing at Somon Air, Tajikistan's leading airline. In 2025, he supported communications for the company's planned acquisition of Boeing aircraft from the United States — a significant milestone in Somon Air’s long-term growth strategy that also reflects expanding U.S.-Tajikistan commercial ties. “English is the language of aviation,” Parviz says. “Communications, technical documentation, training materials, and aircraft maintenance procedures are all conducted in English. For aviation professionals, it is not simply an advantage — it is essential.”
Recognizing the importance of strong English communication in the aviation industry, Parviz joined the C5+O.N.E. (Opening Networks Through English) Program as a Cohort 4 participant and graduated in February 2026. Through C5+O.N.E., Parviz sharpened the leadership skills he now relies on to communicate strategically, negotiate effectively, and represent Somon Air in high-level professional settings. “The classes gave me much more confidence in public speaking and helped improve my negotiation skills,” he explains.
Those skills proved especially valuable as Somon Air advanced plans to expand its fleet. Following the airline’s November 2025 letter of intent related to the purchase of Boeing aircraft, Parviz coordinated communications across teams and supported engagement with Boeing representatives during a critical stage of the project.
Somon Air welcomed two new Boeing aircraft in July 2026, with additional aircraft expected in 2027. The expanded fleet represents an important investment in Tajikistan’s aviation sector, strengthening connections to regional and global markets while supporting tourism, business travel, and trade. It also creates the potential for future direct air service between Tajikistan and the United States.
For Parviz, the journey from a young aviation enthusiast to a professional supporting a major U.S.-Tajikistan aviation initiative demonstrates how English-language skills and professional development can prepare individuals to contribute to projects with lasting economic significance. Parviz’s story reflects the spirit of Freedom 250 by showing how English-language skills can open the door to meaningful professional opportunities while strengthening commercial ties between the United States and Central Asia. Through C5+O.N.E., professionals across the region are contributing to a stronger workforce, expanding economic opportunity, and helping build the foundation for greater trade, investment, and long-term prosperity.