About Me
I am a cultural broker, cultural mediator, health literacy specialist, and expert in community-based participatory research.
My Background
I hold a B.A. in Business and Project Management from Capella University and a Master’s in Public Health from Walden University. The first two decades of my career were spent in the medical field, which included 10 years as a health and technology specialist for Park Nicollet. In this field, I spoke on the concerns of Somali women at public events – such as public health workshops, political roundtables, and university symposiums – where I also challenged the Somali taboo against speaking openly about women’s reproductive health and mental health issues. Some of my notable accomplishments include:
- 2010 – I founded Isuroon, a leading nonprofit organization supporting Somali women and their families by bridging the accessibility gap to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
- 2021 – I founded Peace of Mind Care Center, an adult day care center serving adults 18+ who experience physical disabilities, cognitive deficits, or other challenges. The Care Center was founded with the intent to increase the quality of life our multicultural families and communities through flexible and people-oriented care.
With over 20 years in non-profit management, community development, and healthcare advocacy, my hope is to be an indispensable liaison between the Somali and mainstream communities.
I also hold certificates in IT Project Management, Self-Mastery: The Key for Thriving in the New Normal & Mobilizing for Action through Planning and Partnerships (MAPP), and Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR).
Empowering women, families, and communities through cultural understanding and research.
Women's rights = Family wellbeing Societal wellbeing Country wellbeing
My Purpose
Through collaborative research and cultural mediation, I address healthcare disparities, economic inequality, and social injustices, with a focus on women’s empowerment and family wellbeing. My passion is advancing women’s economic empowerment, recognizing that women’s rights = family wellbeing; family wellbeing = societal wellbeing; and societal wellbeing = the country’s strength and asset.
I acknowledge the pervasive impact of racism on the lives of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). Systemic racism perpetuates inequality, dictating disparities in healthcare, education, economic opportunities, and social justice. I am committed to dismantling racism through culturally-informed research, advocacy, and community engagement. By confronting and addressing racism, we can co-create a society where everyone thrives and reaches their full potential.
Let’s connect and create a more inclusive and equitable world.
My areas of specialty
Connect with me to bring a training or workshop to your organization. I offer culturally specific services, programs, or approaches that are tailored to meet the unique needs, values, beliefs, and practices of diverse groups. These services are designed to be sensitive to the cultural nuances and differences that impact how individuals and communities access and utilize resources. My areas of expertise include but is not limited to:- Cultural competency training
- Cross-cultural communication skills
- Diversity and inclusion strategies
- Conflict resolution and mediation
- Community engagement and outreach