OUR STORY

Ayan Abdullahi brings more than ten years of experience in human resources, operations, and compliance in care-sector and nonprofit organizations. Her work has included hiring, staff development, organizational policies, payroll, and regulatory compliance, including HR leadership at the Center for Inclusive Child Care.

She holds a Master of Education in Family Education and a Master of Education in Youth Development and Leadership from the University of Minnesota, as well as a bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Development. Her preparation also includes parent and family education licensure.

Ayan spent four years as a birth and postpartum doula with EveryDay Miracles, supporting families during pregnancy, birth, and the transition into life with a new baby. Her experience also includes working as a cultural broker supporting families in schools and providing care in home-care settings.

She speaks English and Oromo and has conversational Somali skills. The Village Break brings together her experience supporting families and building the staff, systems, and everyday practices that a dependable care program needs.

Ayan Abdullahi | Founder

Dr. Kadija Mussa brings more than a decade of experience supporting children, parents, and families through mental health services, crisis response, research, program development, staff training, and community-based initiatives.

She holds a PhD in Family Social Science from the University of Minnesota, a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, and specialized graduate training in infant and children’s mental health. She is a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and the founder of Rooted Path Therapy & Consulting LLC.

Kadija’s work centers on understanding children within their families and communities. Her experience as a therapist, researcher, and program manager informs her attention to caregiver well-being, child development, and culturally responsive support.

As a mother, she also understands how difficult it can be to balance children, work, appointments, and everyday responsibilities. She brings that personal perspective alongside her professional experience to the family-centered vision of The Village Break.