Home: Madison, WI. Age: 31. Birthplace: Mogadishu. Profession: Director of AFH facility. Organization: Damal Care LLC. Alma mater: Madison Area Technical College. Languages spoken: Somali, English, Arabic.
Current project: Expanding my AFH business to provide services to more people who need care. Latest accomplishment: Becoming a professional truck driver. Latest contribution to others: Advising and information that I gave to my friend who is starting an AFH home. Hobbies: Travelling. Recent travel or adventure: Somalia, the land of my birth, to reunite with my mother and siblings.
What one word would your closest friend use to describe you? Sadiq, an Arabic term meaning truthful and genuine. Moral compass: The teachings of Islam and the values found in the Qur’an. How do you define a perfect friendship? A safe haven, where you’re fully seen, never judged and always supported. It’s built on honesty, mutual respect and genuine care, even in silence. What occupation, other than your own, do you most admire? Hospice care workers. What is your favorite place (or way) to spend money? Donating to my local mosque to help fund community programs or assist struggling families. What is at the top of your bucket list? Buying a house for my mother. How do you relieve stress? Talking to friends or family. What ingredient is essential to your perfect vacation? The company I’m with and the quality of time we share.
What was your first paying job? Warehouse packaging. What was your favorite college course? History. What book have you repeatedly read? 48 Laws of Power, by Robert Greene. What’s the best advice you received growing up? Take it day by day.
What is your big idea?
Open a foundation for orphan kids back home.
What change would you like to see in the world? A reduction in police brutality. What message do you want to send out into the world? All lives matter.
What title would you choose for the movie about your life? Childhood. What actor would you choose to play you in the movie about your life? Denzel Washington. As a kid, what did you first want to be when you grew up? A religious figure. After your loved ones, what object would you first save from your burning home? A childhood gift from my dad. What advice would you give your younger self? Be more patient.
Personal mission: To serve others with integrity and compassion, reflecting Islamic values. Personal motto: "Service to mankind is the essence of Islam."
