I was born during the civil war in Somalia. I am the youngest of six children. My family fled to the Dadaab Refugee Camp in Kenya. I spent the first 18 years of my life there. Life in the camp was hard, but it taught me resilience. My parents became entrepreneurs out of necessity. They worked every day to feed us. From them, I learned dignity, hard work, and the power of community.
I came to the United States with no high school diploma and little English. What I carried with me was determination. I earned my GED while working long hours in warehouses, call centers, and home care. I enrolled at St. Cloud State University. I earned a bachelor’s degree in International Relations and later a Master’s in Public Administration. Education opened doors for me. I was honored to be selected for the Humphrey Policy Fellows Program, the Minnesota Young American Leaders Program, and to receive the St. Cloud Times “5 Under 40” award.
Early Life & Education
Family, Business, & Community Leadership
am a proud husband and father. My wife, Ayan Aidid—many know her as Kaaba—is a poet, a social justice advocate, and a graduate student at SCSU. Together we are raising two children. Our son Maher is six. Our daughter Qani is one year old. Everything I do is rooted in love for my family and a vision of the Minnesota I want them to grow up in.
I have started several businesses, including a childcare center and a consulting firm. Our childcare center employs over 25 people and serves families across Central Minnesota. My consulting work has helped hundreds of new entrepreneurs launch their own businesses. Before starting my ventures, I worked in nonprofits supporting youth, families, and workforce development. I also served on our local organizations' boards, such as St. Cloud HRA, Local Education and Activities Foundation, Metro Bus, SCTCC, and Paramount Center of Arts. For me, change begins in the community.
Why Am I Running?
am running for State Representative because I know what it means to rebuild a life from nothing. I have worked long shifts to support my family. I have raised children while navigating systems that often feel stacked against us. I have faced the same struggles that many working families in Central Minnesota face every day.
I also know what happens when people are given real opportunities and support. Doors open… Families thrive… Communities grow stronger…
Central Minnesota deserves a leader who doesn’t just talk about these challenges but has lived them. This is my home. It is where I chose to build my life and raise my children. I am running to make sure every family has the tools, resources, and voice they need to succeed.
Together, we can build a Minnesota where everyone has a fair chance.