Kowsar Mohamad: Immigrant Leadership, Youth Advocacy & Building Community Power

Today on Ready: Leaders to Know, I sit down with Kowsar Mohamad, who was appointed by Governor Tim Walz to the University of Minnesota Board of Regents. Kowsar grew up in South Minneapolis, rooted in a Somali immigrant family and a neighborhood that functioned like a village. From organizing a youth council to holding policymakers accountable, her leadership was shaped early by collective responsibility and advocacy. Now an environmental planner, educator, and PhD candidate, she brings people together across difference, leading with empathy, systems thinking, and a deep belief that we’re stronger together