In 2019, Abdishakur Mohamed launched Soma Employment Solutions to address the critical gap in employment services for immigrants in the Fargo-Moorhead area. Since then, the organization has not only expanded its reach but also transformed how local businesses approach hiring, integrating, and developing immigrant talent. Originally from Ethiopia, Mohamed immigrated to the United States in 2014, joining family in Moorhead, where he began navigating the unique challenges immigrants face in the U.S. job market. His journey eventually led to the creation of Soma Employment Solutions, an organization designed to help immigrants find meaningful employment and equip them with resources to build lasting careers.
“Over the past couple of years, I’ve seen firsthand the deep challenges within communities, from unemployment struggles to filling essential roles in the job market,” Mohamed said. “This experience inspired me to create a solution that not only helps individuals find meaningful employment but also bridges the gap between their skills and the demands of the workforce. That’s how Soma Employment Solutions was founded—with a mission to provide tailored support and resources that empower individuals to succeed in sustainable careers.”
This vision led Soma Employment Solutions to grow beyond the Fargo-Moorhead area, eventually expanding into Bloomington, MN, in 2023. The organization’s growth has been powered by its commitment to both clients and the community, which has earned Mohamed recognition, including the MoorHeart award from the City of Moorhead for his exceptional community involvement. When Mohamed first arrived in the United States, he encountered significant challenges himself, including bias in the hiring process.
“When I first arrived, I remember applying for jobs constantly, going to countless interviews. Often, I’d hear, ‘We’ll call you back,’ but it was clear that my accent was a barrier,” Mohamed said. “Sometimes they were actively hiring, but they’d hesitate to bring on someone with an immigrant background. This was actually one of the driving forces behind starting Soma Employment Solutions.”
In addition to recruitment, Soma Employment Solutions has become a comprehensive service provider, offering consulting services that help businesses create inclusive work environments.
“Businesses can make a huge impact by becoming more attractive to immigrants, showing that there’s more than just a job waiting for them,” Mohamed said. “Show them that you value their backgrounds, care about their future, and are committed to their success. When you hire an immigrant, you gain someone with resilience, patience, and courage.”
