Asha Ahmed
OWIG Member of the Month
Name: Asha Ahmed
Hometown: Columbus, Ohio
Place of Work: Ohio House of Representatives
Tenure at Current Place of Work: 1.5 years
OWIG Involvement: Member for 1.5 years, member of the Steering Committee
The one defining moment Asha cites as the catalyst that changed the trajectory of her career was the election of the nation’s first black president, Barack Obama.
Seeing that achievement in her life inspired her to pursue her love of politics and public service, both professionally and personally. She became the Legislative Aide to State Rep. David Leland and deepened her involvement in the political aspects of community engagement as an advocate for the Somali community. In her work at the Statehouse, Asha is constantly reminded of why politics is so important: it influences every aspect of our daily lives. Channeling that knowledge into a motivation to serve, she ended up as an Executive Board Member of Somali Political Action Group, which aims to empower a new generation of Somali leaders and promote their participation in local politics and issue advocacy. The work gives her an opportunity to remind others that there is a seat at the table for them too, just as former President Obama’s election did for her. She views OWIG as a similar channel for participation, noting that she feels her involvement with the organization has opened doors for her by introducing her to new people and presenting her with engaging and educational professional opportunities.
I think it’s safe to say we’re just as delighted to have you as a part of our group, Asha!