The daughter of Somali immigrants has found her niche in American politics.
Born and raised in Fairfax, Va., Najma Mohamud has served on numerous local and state government election campaigns. She received her bachelor’s degree in Conflict Resolution from George Mason University, but the Northern Virginia native knew she wanted to take her education farther at the Schar School of Policy and Government.
The current Master’s in Public Policy student began working on the campaign of former governor and Schar School Distinguished Visiting Professor, Terry McAuliffe, at the age of 18-years-old.
“I saw a poster requesting volunteers, applied, and was brought on as an intern,” she said. “They ended up hiring me on as the Deputy Field Organizer for the Mason District in Annandale, Va.”
Mohamud was the youngest person with a paid job on the campaign, and she managed between 10 to 12 interns. In addition, she represented the campaign at public hearings to better understand the concerns of people in her district.
“The campaign taught me how to bridge barriers with those who have different political views,” she said. “I was able to engage in civil discourse with people from a variety of backgrounds. In order to make a real difference, it’s important to get a diverse range of perspectives.”
Her passion for public service started on the campaign trail, but she hopes to use her public policy degree to work in international development or politics.
“I draw inspiration from my mom,” said Mohamud. “She builds primary schools in Somalia, and she inspires me to do more and give back every day.”
Mohamud is studying public policy to make a difference in the lives of people around the world.
“I think it’s important to study public policy, because it teaches people how to make an impact,” she said. “I hope to pursue a career in international development and eventually create policy to improve the lives of refugees, women, and marginalized people in the United States.
“Through understanding the policy processes and a wide range of perspectives, I feel this degree will give me the best chance to enact positive change,” Mohamud said.