Minneapolis (SPR): Orlyn Kringstad, head of the Oslo Center’s branch in U.S held a going away dinner for Mohamed Jibrel, who will soon relocate to his country of origin, Somalia.
The Oslo Center is an independent foundation, which works to advance human rights, democracy and intercultural dialogue, and it was founded in 2006 by former Prime Minster of Norway Kjell Magne Bondevik. The dinner was hosted by Orlyn Krigstad and his wife Marit Kringstad, a unique event connecting community leaders.
Mohamed Jibrel lived in U.S for over 40 years and has held many prestige professional posts. He initially started out in academia where he became a dean assistant at Trinity College in Hartford Connecticut. Jibrel also has notable experience in government and lobbying, and was the first African to be a delegate in the 2004 democratic convention. Mr.Jibril lives in MN and is the current director of Hennepin County’s Office of Cultural Diversity.
Orlyn and Marit Kringstad were wonderful hosts who made all feel welcome, the Norwegian way.
Other attendees included Fatima Jibril, a 2002 recipient of the Goldman’s award and the founder of Horn Relief, an international relief organization. Fatima shared some of her experiences in Somalia and noted the need for good governance derived from bottom-up approach. She also spoke of issues concerning women and how donor agencies fell short in investing significantly at women leadership.
Matt Entenza, a Minnesota lawyer was also present at the dinner. Mr. Entenza served six terms in the Minnesota House of Representatives and also ran for state attorney general. He served as House Minority Leader from 2003–2006, and latter became a candidate in the attorney generals race. Mr. Entenza noted the progress of Somali immigrants in Minnesota and his passion to work with the community.
Other attendees included Karin Nordstrom (Blooming City Council Member), Dr.Saed Fahia, Dahir Jibril, Ruun Qorsheel, Aman Obsiye, Jacob Walls and Ann Beuch. It was certainly a privilege, to meet and exchange dialogue with all these community leaders who come from very interesting backgrounds.
Mohamed Jibril, who will soon relocate to Somalia to partake in a U.N project, thanked all attendees and the host of the dinner Orlyn and Marit Kringstad for organizing this wonderful dinner.
At last, Orlyn Kringstad shared about the upcoming Minneapolis event of Dr. Hawa Abdi in July 14, sponsored by Oslo Center US- Foundation. Dr. Hawa Abdi is courageous woman who dedicated her life to better healthcare to underserved people in Somalia. Click here to see time and place.
Comments
I would also like to congratulate Mohamed Jibril, for returning home. I urge him to visit Dhahar and Badhan to meet and greet his kinsmen.