Greetings from CIDI headquarters in Washington, DC!
I am thrilled to be working with the creative, thoughtful team at CIDI, whose work contributes to making a positive difference in the lives of people affected by disasters around the world.
Prior to working with CIDI, I served as Executive Director of the George Mason University Institute for Immigration Research (IIR). I led an academic institution whose mission is to influence the passage of immigration reform in the U.S. by showcasing how immigrants provide vital contributions to the American economy and society of each city, state and the nation as a whole.
As a former refugee from Somalia, I have a deep, personal understanding of the critical role diaspora communities play in humanitarian response. I have witnessed diaspora, through outreach and partnerships, support donors and response agencies in providing essential relief to disaster survivors quickly and effectively. In the past 8 years, I have spearheaded diaspora engagement initiatives in a number of capacities including public-private partnerships and community development.
I am honored to lead another collaboration effort; this time between the Institute for Immigration Research (IIR) and the Center for International Disaster Information (CIDI). Please join me on Thursday November 12, 9am-12pm, on the George Mason University Arlington Campus for a panel discussion on “The Contribution of Immigrant and Diaspora Communities in U.S. Disaster Response Missions.” Reserve your seat now by RSVP-ing here
I look forward to seeing you at the panel discussion!
