Our Team

Said Abiyow

Founder/CEO

Said Abiyow, the CEO and founder of the Somali Bantu Association of America, is a dedicated leader committed to the empowerment of refugees and immigrants. His vision and leadership have been pivotal in developing programs and services that assist these communities in adapting and thriving in their new environment. Through his efforts, the organization has become a vital resource in supporting refugees in their journey towards integration and self-sufficiency in the United States.

Patricia Moore

Vice President/Co-founder/HR

As one of the original three co-founders of the Somali Bantu Association of America, Patricia Moore brings 30+ years of administrative expertise to the aid of the SBAOA organization. As a previous Manager of government/military contracts working with diverse populations, Patricia bonded with the Somali Bantu community in particular and embraced the opportunity to be of service wherever possible. She is currently the active HR Director for the organization.

Omar Abdi A

Vice Chairman

Omar Abdi was born in Lower Juba, Somalia. Before joining the Somali Bantu Association of America, Mr. Abdi worked in various sectors of social services. Mr. Abdi was a former executive vice president at the Somali Bantu Association of Utah for over nine years. He has been a member of the Organization of Somali Bantu Association of America since 2010.

Garrett Cullen

Co-founder/Web Development

Garrett Cullen, a co-founder of SBAOA, played a crucial role in its inception in 2009 alongside Said Abiyow and Patricia Moore. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration from San Diego State University, Garrett has skillfully blended his academic background with his passion for community service. Transitioning into a career as a web developer, he continues to leverage his technical expertise to support and advance the mission of SBAOA, helping to shape it into the impactful organization it is today.

Ifrah Salad

Director of Operations

We’re delighted to welcome Ifrah Salad as the new Director of Operations at the Somali Bantu Association of America (SBAOA). With her extensive background in nonprofit management and commitment to social justice, Ifrah is set to oversee our daily operations and program management. Her expertise will be instrumental in developing new initiatives and driving our mission forward. Join us in embracing Ifrah’s leadership and passion for empowering communities and fostering positive change.

Safiya Hussein

Deputy Director

We’re excited to announce Safiya Hussein as the Deputy Director of the Somali Bantu Association of America (SBAOA). Safiya’s extensive experience in community development and commitment to social justice will be key in managing our day-to-day operations and advancing new programs. Her dedication to empowering communities will undoubtedly enhance our growth and outreach. Join us in welcoming Safiya to our team!

Faisa Mohamud

Administrator

My name is Faisa Mohamud I am the Assistant to the CEO and Executive Director here at the Somali Bantu Association of America. I grew up in San Diego, California, and graduated from Crawford High School. I have a degree in public administration. I have made it a life goal to help the community that help me while growing up. I have had a passion to work in the non-profit field since high school. I am a hard worker who is self-driven and has great communication skills. When I’m not at SBAOA the things I enjoy doing are exploring the city, trying new restaurants, and having fun with my family.

Samir Abdirizak

Youth Program Manager/Communication Manager

Samir Abdirizak serves as Communications manager at SBAOA and manages and coordinates community events, marketing strategies, and stakeholder relations. Samir is a Biology student and aspires to provide better resources for local communities through healthcare. SBAOA is more of a family than it is a business. With all of the bright ideas from our sharp-witted staff, we can provide our services to an outstanding range of people no matter their situation. SBAOA taught me that despite everyone being different, everyone deserves the same resources and support.

Marilynn Mika Spencer

Attorney

SBAOA is happy to welcome attorney Marilynn Mika Spencer, M M Spencer Law Offices, to SBAOA’s team. Mika has been a California licensed attorney since 1990. SBAOA met Mika in 2016. Mika initiated and led litigation against a U.S. military contractor that employed hundreds of Somali and other African refugees. Due to Mika’s and her legal team’s efforts, the military contractor had to pay 125 of these employees for the discrimination and abuse it forced upon them. Ever since then, SBAOA has called on Mika for legal representation and guidance. Now, SBAOA and Mika have agreed to a formal, on-going relationship so SBAOA can continue to benefit from Mika’s decades of legal experience.