1 Million Cups Fargo: Where Are They Now? Abdishakur with Soma Employment Solutions
We reached out to past 1 Million Cups Fargo speakers to reconnect with them on their time since speaking at 1 Million Cups. When 1 Million Cups began in Fargo, this event took off and was a primary way for entrepreneurs to expand their connections while also collaborating with others. After six years of consecutive gatherings, 1 Million Cups concluded their time in Fargo, although you can still tune in to 1 Million Cups events across various cities in the country. Shortly after 1 Million Cups left Fargo, Emerging Prairie had the idea to curate StartupBREW Fargo, which is what we know today! Read about Abdishakur Mohamed‘s journey with Soma Employment Solutions since speaking at 1 Million Cups!
The Transition from 1 Million Cups Fargo to StartupBREW Fargo
1 Million Cups was formed by the Kaufmann Foundation; a Kansas City, MO based non-profit that focused on education and entrepreneurship. The idea was to familiarize the communities where 1 Million Cups was chaptered with local entrepreneurs, as the individuals of the Kaufmann Foundation thought that there were not many networking opportunities for entrepreneurs and a place to share their accomplishments. When 1 Million Cups was brought to Fargo, they met weekly and eventually after six years of consistent efforts, 1 Million Cups wrapped up their time in Fargo in 2021. Shortly after, Emerging Prairie announced the launch of an event that we all now know and dearly love, StartupBREW Fargo! StartupBREW is a weekly event hosted by Emerging Prairie that focuses on engaging entrepreneurs and connecting them with the Fargo/Moorhead area, as well as fueling the minds of aspiring entrepreneurs or any member of the community interested in entrepreneurship.
About Soma Employment Solutions
Soma Employment Solutions aims to address the workforce demand-supply gap by exclusively attracting new Americans in developed states to meet the diverse needs of various businesses. Founded by Abdishakur Mohamed, a passionate corporate HR professional with extensive experience in recruitment, training, and talent acquisition consultancy for startups, small and medium enterprises, and large multinational companies. The company fosters a highly productive working environment, providing reliable solutions to partners and catering to the needs of both applicants and businesses. Soma Employment Solutions values its clients’ interests and is committed to practicing professional ethics while maintaining a trajectory of consistent growth, development, and sustainability.
What has been the biggest success of your journey since speaking at 1 Million Cups Fargo?
“The biggest success since speaking at 1 Million Cups Fargo has been the continued growth and expansion of Soma Employment Solutions. We have been able to place more refugees and immigrants into stable, well-paying jobs, helping them integrate into the local community. Our partnerships with local businesses have strengthened, and we’ve seen a significant increase in the number of employers seeking our services.”
What is something beneficial that you were able to take away from speaking at 1 Million Cups Fargo?
“Speaking at 1 Million Cups Fargo was a valuable experience that allowed us to share our story and connect with a wider audience. It helped us gain visibility and credibility within the local entrepreneurial ecosystem. But more importantly, it provided us with valuable feedback and insights from the audience, which has helped us refine our service offerings and better address the needs of our clients and partners.”
Do you have any advice for future entrepreneurs?
“My advice for future entrepreneurs would be to stay focused on your mission and the value you to your community. Be resilient and adaptable, as you will inevitably face challenges along the way. Surround yourself with a strong support network, whether it’s mentors, partners, or a dedicated team. And never underestimate the power of networking and community engagement – these can be crucial in opening doors and accessing resources.”
What are you currently accomplishing within your organization, any wins?
“Within our organization, we have recently launched a new job training program that has been highly successful in equipping our clients with the skills and certifications needed to secure better-paying jobs. We have also expanded our geographic reach, opening a new office in Minneapolis, MN to serve a larger pool of refugees and immigrants.”
What can our community continue to do to help energize your organization?
“The Fargo/Moorhead community has been incredibly supportive, and we are grateful for that. To continue energizing our organization, the community can help by spreading awareness about our services, referring potential clients and partners, and advocating for policies and initiatives that support the integration of refugees and immigrants. Additionally, continued financial sponsorships would allow us to expand our reach and impact.”
What are you grateful for today?
“I am deeply grateful for the support and trustthat the Fargo/Moorhead community has placed in Soma Employment Solutions. I’m thankful for the hardworking team that has helped build this organization, as well as the clients and partners who have believed in our mission. Most importantly, I’m grateful for the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of refugees and immigrants, helping them achieve their dreams and thrive in their new homes.”
Readers can learn more about Abdishakur and Soma Employment Solutions by checking out his Linkedin and website!
