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Vice President/Director of Operations

Jama Farah

Jama Farah, a Somali-American community leader and small business owner, serves as the Vice President and Director of Operations at Global Humanitarian Aid & Social Development, INC (GHASD). Farah joined GHASD in 2020 after he saw the inspiring vision and strategic plan laid out by the organization’s founder, Hassan Shide. Recognizing the depth of Shide’s commitment to empowering immigrant and refugee communities, Farah felt a strong alignment with GHASD’s mission and saw an opportunity to make a lasting impact on communities he deeply cares about.

Farah was drawn to GHASD by Hassan Shide’s comprehensive and transformative vision—one that aimed not only to address immediate needs but also to foster self-sufficiency, resilience, and long-term empowerment within immigrant and refugee populations. Inspired by the founder’s strategic plan, which prioritized culturally relevant programs, sustainable development, and community-driven solutions, Farah knew he could contribute his experience and leadership to help make this vision a reality. This alignment with GHASD’s mission gave Farah the clarity and motivation to bring his expertise to the organization, becoming a key driver of its growth and impact.

With over five years of experience in nonprofit management, community outreach, and small business ownership, Farah brought valuable skills in program design, resource optimization, and strategic planning. His role as a small business owner in Central Ohio had already given him firsthand insight into the unique challenges and opportunities within the local immigrant and refugee communities. Joining GHASD provided Farah with a platform to leverage his skills on a larger scale, collaborating with a dedicated team to build accessible, effective, and culturally attuned services.

Farah’s leadership at GHASD is guided by a hands-on, solutions-oriented approach that reflects his deep understanding of the community’s needs. Known for his strategic vision, analytical skills, and commitment to operational excellence, he has been instrumental in implementing frameworks that streamline processes, enhance service delivery, and optimize resources. His leadership has allowed GHASD to grow sustainably and extend its reach in Central Ohio, positively impacting countless individuals and families.

A cornerstone of Farah’s work at GHASD has been his dedication to building partnerships with local organizations, government agencies, and community leaders. By establishing these alliances, he has strengthened GHASD’s network and secured valuable resources that enhance the organization’s capacity to address the complex needs of its clients. This partnership-building aligns directly with Hassan Shide’s vision, ensuring that GHASD remains a vital part of a comprehensive support system for immigrant and refugee communities.

In addition to his operational expertise, Farah is recognized for his inclusive and empowering leadership style. He fosters a culture of mutual respect and shared responsibility, encouraging GHASD’s staff to take ownership of their roles and contribute to the organization’s mission fully. His approach aligns with GHASD’s values and promotes a supportive environment where staff and volunteers are motivated to serve their communities effectively.

Looking to the future, Farah’s goals for GHASD include expanding its reach, strengthening its programs, and ensuring its sustainability. His vision is for GHASD to serve as a model organization in immigrant and refugee support, one that is both responsive to current needs and adaptable to the challenges of tomorrow. He is committed to advancing GHASD’s mission of building resilient, self-sufficient communities that thrive economically, socially, and culturally.

Jama Farah’s decision to join GHASD in 2020, inspired by the founder’s vision and plan, has made him a central leader in the organization. His alignment with GHASD’s mission, combined with his expertise, strategic vision, and dedication, continues to drive the organization forward, creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals and families seeking stability, opportunity, and a sense of belonging.