To be a trusted leader, you have to be transparent, know what you are doing, and be credible and committed. ASAD KHALIF ALIWEYD, PHD Founder, Executive Director New American Development Center Eden Prairie, MN https://www.nadcmn.org/ Drawing on over 20 years of economic development experience and a proven track record of asset and wealth building, Dr. Asad Khalif Aliweyd excels as the founder and executive director of the New American Development Center. A Somali-born immigrant and dedicated community advocate, he manages programs and services that address community needs, oversees staffing matters and develops fundraising efforts. He helps immigrant families build wealth and assets and collaborates with the board to identify and implement strategic plans. Dr. Aliweyd founded the Southwest Immigrant Community Council and Eden Prairie Afford- able Housing Coalition. Additionally, he was the Southwest Light Rail Community Engagement Steering Committee co-chair and former chair of the Somali Community Task Force. How have you navigated disruptions in your industry to remain a top professional? What I’m doing is exciting. As a leader in nonprofit community development, I make it my priority to continuously learn and build strong partnerships to remain effective. I seek opportunities to acquire new knowledge and skills while forging strategic alliances with other organizations and stakeholders. I understand the importance of adaptability in navigating the ever-changing landscape of community development – embracing new technologies, processes and methodologies allows me to stay relevant and responsive to the needs of communities. I’m open to adjusting our approach to ensure maximum impact and sustainability. Strategic planning is another cornerstone; I ensure our efforts are focused and purposeful by assessing our vision and mission and aligning them with our core work. This enables us to effectively address challenges and opportunities while remaining true to our organizational values. By combining continuous learning, adaptability and strategic planning, I strive to lead my organization in making a meaningful and lasting difference in communities. When I got my MBA in 2013, many people asked me to go to a Fortune 500 company to be a COO or a program director. However, in my DNA, I like to serve the community. Every morning, I wake up and
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