MCH is excited and eager to learn alongside our newest coworker, Sumaya Hassan!
Sumaya graduated from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities with a degree in Family Social Science. She is currently in graduate school working towards completing a Master’s in Public Administration at the University of Colorado-Denver.
Before joining the Minnesota Coalition for the Homeless Sumaya worked for several years in direct service roles with individuals with mental health diagnoses, many of whom experienced homelessness or housing instability. Sumaya also worked at a domestic violence agency where housing instability was common for many women and their children. Her interest in housing work comes from her time spent at these organizations and the challenges she witnessed her clients faced in finding affordable housing. In her free time she enjoys spending time with her friends and family, listening to podcasts and reading books related to personal development.
Please join us in welcoming Sumaya Hassan as our new Operations & Development Associate.
Read more about Sumaya below!
From Sumaya:
Hi, my name is Sumaya! I am excited to begin working at the Minnesota Coalition for the Homeless. I look forward to working for an organization working to alleviate homelessness and increase access to more affordable housing units for Minnesotans.
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, listening to podcasts and reading books related to personal development. I also love traveling and hope to do more of it this year!
- Why are you passionate about public policy and advocacy?
I’m passionate about public policy and advocacy because structural and discriminatory housing policies with wide-reaching ramifications have had devastating effects on black and brown communities in Minnesota. The legacy of many of these policies has led to large racial disparities in Minnesota’s homeless population. I’m a firm believer that the past should inform the present. In order to work towards meaningful change, I believe a race equity lens must be utilized to understand the various ways these policies have and continue to impact communities of color.
- How do you spend your time when you’re not at work?
When I’m not at work I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, listening to podcasts and reading books related to personal development.
- What does having a home mean to you?
Having a home means having a place you can go at the end of a long day and unwind. It means having a place that offers you a sense of safety, security, and comfort.
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