Board of Directors
A non-profit community-based organization that is committed in addressing the immigration, integration, education, health, housing, social service, culture, and economic development needs of Somali Canadians and other immigrants in Canada through programs, service and advocacy.
Abbas Jama
Studied at Huazhong University of Science and Technology and attended Tongji Medical College studying clinical and traditional Chinese medicine. During his 6 years abroad, he received certification in TEFL/HSK and taught English in China. Abbas completed a one-year internship at Union Hospital, volunteered at Humber River Hospital’s Emergency department and an internship with Dr. Abdullahi Berih. He has extensive experience in community and most recently became a member of Somali North American Business and Professionals Inc.
Ebyan Hassan
Is the Executive Assistant to the Director of Financial Management and Reporting/ Corporate Services at the Ministry of Ontario Securities Commission. She attended the University of Toronto where she received a Bachelor of Arts, Political Science and Certificate of Public Administration from Humber College. Ebyan was instrumental as a Research assistant in the Policy Development Department at University of Toronto where she drafted new and updated existing content in policy, procedural and training documents. Her areas of expertise include Research/Analysis, Budget Development, Stakeholder Relations and Cross Functional Management.
Mariam Mohamed
Is a Senior Financial Analyst at Canadian Tire Corporation. Mariam holds a Masters of Business Administration, specialization in MIS and Masters of Arts and a Bachelor of Education in Accounting & Economics. Mariam is also a Chartered Professional Accountant, Certified General Accountant, and a member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants. Mariam’s community involvement reaches global levels as she has experience working in Africa, America, and Canada.
Duale Ahmed Hussein
Graduated from Seneca College for Police Foundation. Duale has always taken a leadership role in everything he does; his ability to work under pressure and quickly adapt to various working conditions; while managing competing priorities in a complex environment is outstanding. One of his many talents includes creatively solving problems and having excellent communication skills. Working at Bell Technical Solutions, allowed him to support multiple projects and resources; while working with tight deadlines. As an assistant manager of his team (SME), he helped assist a team of 20 technicians providing them with; guidance, assistance, tools and material, and mentorship. Duale is committed to the Somali-Canadian community, his passion for supporting others shows in
Shakir Mohamed Ali’s
Educational achievements included a Master’s in Social Science from the Institute of Arab Studies, Social Work degree from University of Toronto, Bachelor of Education from Azhar University. He is also certified in Human Resources and Development, diplomatic training, consulting and arbitration, crisis and project action planning. Shakir’s international certification includes Public Relations in crisis management from the Central agency of public mobilization and statistics, management of small businesses, African training and capacity building. Shakir as a Social worker has developed leadership, analytical and problem-solving skills through his commitment in working with vulnerable communities. He excited to interact and support SIAO in all governance aspects.
Zahra Abukar
Has an academic background from Seneca College as Social Service Worker, majoring in Immigrant and Refugee studies. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor Degree in Social Work from York University part time. She successfully completed her Field Placement at SIAO, which has allowed her to see first-hand the needs that our vulnerable community requires. This includes specializing in homelessness, mental health, settlement and housing. Her experience gained from Rexdale Women’s Centre and Homefirst Shelter as a Support/Settlement Worker has helped develop skills in information and referrals services, working in diverse cultural, ethnic, age and socioeconomic backgrounds. She is fluent in English, Somali and Swahili.
Marian Sheikhnur
Is owner of “Eastern Décor Incorporation”, located in the heart of the community for 12 years, has successfully established running multiple businesses both locally and internationally. Marian acquires vast knowledge in entrepreneurship, financial mapping, and sustainability in a volatile industry. Her commitment to community engagement is further displayed through advocacy of the barriers Women Entrepreneurs face navigating the business cycle.
Shamso Elmi
Is the co-founder of Mending a Crack in the Sky (MCIS) a dynamic program that consists of a dedicated group of Somali mothers who are passionate about creating safe spaces to heal, mobilize, advocate and navigate socioeconomic systems. The group is inspired by a Somali proverb stating that “if people come together, they can even mend a crack in the sky.” In addition to MCIS, Shamso’s dedication and passion has allowed her to become a symbolic figure in the community. Advocacy has become Shamso’s legacy through her work as a workshop facilitator, interpreter, community worker, and addressing youth radicalization.
