Fowzia: A Story Of Perseverance, Hope, And Creativity.

My journey from Somalia to North Dakota has been one of perseverance, faith, and an unwavering belief in the power of human connection. I wake up every day grateful for the opportunity to do work that matters, alongside people who inspire me with their courage, compassion, and resilience.

Fowzia Adde

I witnessed firsthand the challenges and triumphs of a nation in transition. Even as a young child, I was struck by the resilience and creativity of the Somali people in the face of political upheaval and economic uncertainty.

When the civil war erupted in 1990, my family made the difficult decision to flee to Kenya. We sought safety and a chance at a better life. Those years in the refugee camp were marked by hardship, but also by the kindness and generosity of strangers who became like family. It was there that I first began to understand the power of community and the importance of lifting each other up in times of need.

Working with the Red Cross in the camp opened my eyes to the transformative potential of entrepreneurship. I saw how small businesses could provide not just income, but also a sense of purpose, dignity, and hope for the future. I knew then that I wanted to dedicate my life to helping others achieve their dreams of self-sufficiency and success.

When I arrived in the United States in 1996

I was filled with a mix of excitement and apprehension. Starting over in a new country was no easy feat, but I was determined to build a life of meaning and impact. North Dakota became my home, and the Fargo-Moorhead community welcomed me with open arms.

Over the years, I’ve poured my heart into my work with the Immigrant Development Center, drawing on my own experiences to support and empower fellow immigrants and refugees. The International Market Plaza has been a labor of love – a testament to the incredible diversity and spirit of our community.

even in a place as warm and welcoming as Fargo. But the way our community rallied together in response – standing up against hate, repainting the plaza, and reaffirming our commitment to inclusion and respect – filled me with immense pride and gratitude.

Through it all, I’ve learned that the American dream isn’t about individual success, but about the success of our communities. When we invest in each other, celebrate our differences, and work together towards common goals, there’s no limit to what we can achieve.

My journey from Somalia to North Dakota has been one of perseverance, faith, and an unwavering belief in the power of human connection. I wake up every day grateful for the opportunity to do work that matters, alongside people who inspire me with their courage, compassion, and resilience.

creating spaces where all people feel valued and empowered, and working towards a world where every individual has the chance to thrive. It’s a vision that drives me forward, even in the face of challenges and setbacks.

At the end of the day, my story is one of hope – hope for a brighter tomorrow, for a society that embraces our shared humanity, and for a future where every child, regardless of where they come from, can dream big and reach for the stars. That’s the legacy I want to leave behind, and the work I’m honored to do each and every day.

The Immigrant Development Center focuses on helping immigrants and refugees achieve their dreams of starting their own businesses and becoming self-sufficient. Through our efforts at the center, we have assisted several individuals in establishing their entrepreneurial ventures, contributing to the economic growth and cultural diversity of the community.

Ramadan is a sacred month in the Islamic calendar, during which Muslims worldwide fast from dawn to sunset, engaging in spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and increased devotion to God. It is a time for Muslims to strengthen their faith, practice self-control, and develop a deeper connection with their religion.

Iftar, the evening meal that breaks the daily fast at sunset, is a significant aspect of Ramadan. It is a time for family, friends, and communities to come together and share a meal, fostering a sense of unity and belonging. Iftar gatherings often extend beyond immediate social circles, with mosques and community centers hosting large meals open to all.

During Ramadan, we also focus on empathizing with the less fortunate, practicing increased generosity and compassion through charitable acts and donations. The month serves as an opportunity for self-reflection, forgiveness, and spiritual growth, with many Muslims striving to break bad habits, mend relationships, and increase their understanding of Islam.

Ramadan and Iftar hold immense spiritual, social, and cultural significance for Muslims around the world. They serve as a time for heightened devotion, self-discipline, community bonding, and personal growth, all while fostering a sense of unity and shared experience among Muslims globally.

Fowzia Adde

I’ll be bringing sambusa! sambusa, also known as samosa in other parts of the world, is a delicious triangular-shaped pastry filled with savory ingredients like spiced potatoes, peas, lentils, or meat. It’s a popular snack or appetizer in Somali cuisine, as well as in many other East African, Middle Eastern, and South Asian culinary traditions.

For those who may not be familiar, sambusa is typically made by wrapping a thin dough around a filling, and then deep frying until the exterior is crispy and golden brown. The result is a hot, flavorful bite that’s both satisfying and easy to enjoy on the go or at gatherings.

• Friendly, welcoming people – folks here tend to be warm, open, and always ready to lend a hand to their neighbors. There’s a real sense of looking out for each other.
• Access to outdoor recreation – Even with the growing metro area, natural beauty is never far away. The Red River, numerous parks and trails, lakes, and wide open prairies all within a short drive.
• Quality of life – A reasonable cost of living, good schools, safe neighborhoods, economic opportunity, short commutes contribute to a life that balances urban amenities and a more laid-back pace.