Staff Members - Adult & Youth Learning Center

Meet our Staff

Ilhan Dakane

Executive Director

Meet Ilham Dakane, our esteemed Executive Director, whose expertise and passion for education drive our mission. With a Master's in Higher Education and a Bachelor's in Elementary Education, Ilham's decade-long experience in school districts underscores her commitment to improving educational outcomes for all. Her dedication to improving educational outcomes for all students is evident in her work, where she consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that every student receives the support they need to thrive. She excels in providing tailored support to diverse student and family groups, fostering inclusive environments where every student feels valued and empowered to succeed.

Hawo Samatar

Programs Director

Meet Hawo Samatar, our dedicated Program Director, whose passion for education is as inspiring as her expertise is profound. Armed with a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education, complemented by a minor in Teaching English as a Second Language, Hawo brings a unique blend of academic knowledge and practical skill to our team. Her specialty lies in providing culturally competent services to low-income students and their families, recognizing the importance of understanding and respecting diverse backgrounds in the educational landscape. As Program Director, Hawo is instrumental in shaping our initiatives and programs to meet the unique needs of the communities we serve. Hawo's commitment to serving marginalized communities is evident in her work ethic and approach. She believes in fostering environments where every student feels seen, heard, and valued, regardless of their socioeconomic status or cultural heritage, ensuring that all students have equal access to quality education and support services.

Ishwaq Dakane

Operations Manager

Introducing Ishwaq Dakane, our dedicated Operational Manager who brings a unique blend of medical expertise and community advocacy to our team. With a Bachelor's degree in Respiratory Therapy and a wealth of experience in the medical field, Ishwaq's background provides a solid foundation for her role. Beyond her medical credentials, Ishwaq is deeply committed to serving her community. Through years of volunteer work and advocacy efforts, she has demonstrated a passion for making a positive impact on the lives of others. Throughout her career, Ishwaq has demonstrated a deep commitment to serving others, both within healthcare settings and in the broader community. Her passion for advocacy and volunteerism has allowed her to make meaningful contributions to various causes, positively impacting the lives of those around her. With her strategic mindset and compassionate approach, she plays a vital role in ensuring seamless operations within our organization, driving us towards our goals with efficiency and empathy. Her keen attention to detail and proactive approach make her an invaluable asset to our team, enabling us to deliver exceptional services to our clients and community.

Ishwaq Ahmed

Programs coordinator/community outreach

Meet Ishwaq Ahmed, our dynamic Programs Coordinator and Community Outreach Specialist, whose passion for community engagement drives positive change within our organization and the broader educational community. With a rich background in community advocacy and a strong commitment to grassroots initiatives, Ishwaq is a valuable asset to our team. Drawing from her extensive experience, Ishwaq seamlessly bridges the gap between our organization and the communities we serve. Her hands-on approach to outreach ensures that our programs are accessible and responsive to the needs of diverse populations. Through her dedication and tireless efforts, Ishwaq fosters meaningful connections and cultivates a culture of inclusivity and collaboration. With Ishwaq at the helm of our community outreach efforts, we are confident in our ability to make a lasting impact. Her passion, dedication, and collaborative spirit are instrumental in driving our mission forward, ensuring that we continue to create meaningful change and foster a brighter future for all.

Meet our Staff

Ilhan Dakane

Hawo Samatar

Ishwaq Dakane

Ishwaq Ahmed

Links

Contact

Help us reach our goal!