Meet Our Board
Samiira Isse
Board Chair
Samiira Isse, a graduate of the University of Minnesota with a Bachelor's degree in Political Science, possesses a comprehensive background in infrastructure, development, and governmental policy.
Currently serving as a commissioner on the Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) Board in Bloomington, Minnesota, Samiira lever
Board Chair
Samiira Isse, a graduate of the University of Minnesota with a Bachelor's degree in Political Science, possesses a comprehensive background in infrastructure, development, and governmental policy.
Currently serving as a commissioner on the Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) Board in Bloomington, Minnesota, Samiira leverages her knowledge to ensure access to safe and adequate housing for all residents.Her understanding of infrastructure and development policies allows her to address housing shortages and revitalize blighted neighborhoods. Samiira's work with the HRA aligns with the city's mission to protect the health, safety, and welfare of its citizens. Moreover, her nuanced understanding of policy intricacies enables her to navigate complex issues with insight and proficiency.
In addition to her role with the HRA, Samiira is on track to attend law school, completing a law degree with a focus on international law. She also serves as a member of the Equity Advisory Committee at the Metropolitan Council. Through this position, she actively contributes to shaping policies that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion across the Twin Cities metropolitan region. By offering her unique perspectives and insights rooted in infrastructure, development, and policy, Samiira ensures that a wide variety of voices are represented in decision-making processes.
With a strong background in policy and development, along with passion for community service and advocacy, Samiira embodies the spirit of positive change and progress in her community and beyond.
Board of Advisors
Deeqa Maxamed Siyaad Barre
Deeqa Maxamed Siyaad Barre
Deeqa Maxamed Siyaad Barre
Public Service Advocate | Humanitarian & Development Leader | Legacy of Governance
Deeqa Maxamed Siyaad Barre is a Somali public service advocate with a professional and personal legacy rooted in governance, diplomacy, and community development.
Over the years, Deeqa has been involved in initiatives aimed at advancing education, women’s em
Public Service Advocate | Humanitarian & Development Leader | Legacy of Governance
Deeqa Maxamed Siyaad Barre is a Somali public service advocate with a professional and personal legacy rooted in governance, diplomacy, and community development.
Over the years, Deeqa has been involved in initiatives aimed at advancing education, women’s empowerment, and humanitarian assistance in Somali communities both at home and in the diaspora. Drawing from her unique heritage and personal professional journey, she has worked with civil society organizations and development partners to address displacement, expand access to social services, and encourage inclusive dialogue on Somalia’s future.
Her experience reflects a deep understanding of both high-level statecraft and grassroots mobilization, with a focus on fostering unity, stability, and opportunity for Somali people worldwide.
Mohamed Wardere
Deeqa Maxamed Siyaad Barre
Deeqa Maxamed Siyaad Barre
Community Leader | Advocate for Social Cohesion | Civic Engagement Strategist
Mohamed Wardere is a respected Somali American leader with a long track record of advancing civic participation, public engagement, and community development in Minnesota. He has collaborated with local officials, nonprofit organizations, and grassroots leaders t
Community Leader | Advocate for Social Cohesion | Civic Engagement Strategist
Mohamed Wardere is a respected Somali American leader with a long track record of advancing civic participation, public engagement, and community development in Minnesota. He has collaborated with local officials, nonprofit organizations, and grassroots leaders to address pressing issues such as housing, education, and equitable access to public resources.
Known for his ability to bring diverse voices to the table, Mohamed has facilitated dialogue, resolved conflicts, and promoted cooperative solutions in complex community matters. He has also championed immigrant inclusion in policymaking, ensuring Somali perspectives are represented in decisions that shape their lives.
Through years of service, Wardere has built a reputation as a trusted and unifying figure, committed to fairness, cultural understanding, and building a shared vision for progress.
Abdiweli Falahfalah
Deeqa Maxamed Siyaad Barre
Abdiweli Falahfalah
Policy & Research Advisor | Former Somali Government Official | Development Project Leader
Abdiweli Falahfalah is a seasoned governance and development professional with extensive experience in public policy, humanitarian programming, and institutional strengthening in Somalia and the Horn of Africa.
He previously served as a Policy and R
Policy & Research Advisor | Former Somali Government Official | Development Project Leader
Abdiweli Falahfalah is a seasoned governance and development professional with extensive experience in public policy, humanitarian programming, and institutional strengthening in Somalia and the Horn of Africa.
He previously served as a Policy and Research Advisor within the Somali government, where he played a key role in shaping evidence-based policies on governance, development, and public administration reform. His work focused on strengthening state institutions, improving service delivery, and fostering effective coordination between government ministries and international development partners.
Abdiweli also worked as a Project Manager with Nomadic Assistance for Peace and Development (NAPAD), leading humanitarian and resilience-building projects in partnership with international NGOs and donor agencies. In that capacity, he oversaw program planning, budget management, and monitoring of multi-sector initiatives supporting vulnerable communities, enhancing food security, and promoting sustainable livelihoods.