Who We Are
Our dedicated team comprises healthcare professionals, educators, and community leaders who share a passion for improving global health. With deep roots in Minnesota and extensive international experience, our leaders drive our mission to improve healthcare locally and globally.
Director of International Affairs
Deka is a dedicated Certified Nurse Midwife and the Director of International Affairs at Global Health Alliance. With a deep passion for maternal and child health, she combines clinical expertise with strategic leadership to drive global health initiatives and impactful collaborations with international organizations and communities.
Director of Domestic Affairs
Farhiyo is a board-certified OB/GYN at Allina Health, dedicated to giving back to communities in need across the globe. She brings extensive experience in prenatal care and surgery, and is recognized for exceptional clinical skills and patient care, including the Top Doctor Award.
Board Member
Physician with specialized training in neurosurgery and extensive experience in clinical care and international medical collaboration. Fluent in Somali, English, and Turkish, he advances medical education and access to quality healthcare across Africa and beyond.
Board Member
MSW, LGSW — Licensed Graduate Social Worker specializing in trauma-informed, culturally responsive mental health care for children, adolescents, adults, and families across inpatient, outpatient, and residential settings.
Board Member, Retired
Retired pediatrician and adolescent medicine specialist with over 40 years of practice at Children’s MN and Hennepin Healthcare, with special interests in parenting, global health, medical education, and care for underserved families.
Board Member
Finance professional with over 40 years of experience spanning financial planning, community banking leadership, brokerage, and FinTech—now supporting BIPOC entrepreneurs through Minneapolis nonprofit work.
Chief Financial Officer
Seasoned accountant and business professional with public and private sector experience, focused on internal controls, compliance, and strategic financial leadership.
Honorary Board Member
Honorary board member supporting Global Health Alliance’s mission.
Honorary Board Member
Honorary board member supporting Global Health Alliance’s mission.
Director of Respiratory Therapy
Respiratory Care Practitioner leading efforts to establish the first bachelor’s-level respiratory therapy program in Somalia and expand lifesaving respiratory care across Africa.
Director of Resource and Education
Leads resource and education initiatives that support GHA’s training and capacity-building programs.
In-Country Director, GHA Somalia
Provides strategic leadership for health programs and partnerships that strengthen healthcare systems across Somalia, leveraging technology, innovation, and collaboration.