ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ruqia is a unique professional who blends her roles as an author, motivational speaker, educator, consultant, and cultural trainer into a comprehensive and impactful career.

At the core of Ruqia's academic journey lies her influential book, Better Parenting: A Guide for Somali Parents in the Diaspora. This book is a testament to her cultural insights and profound grasp of Islamic studies, which she studied at the International Islamic University in Islamabad, Pakistan.

Ruqia has emerged as a leading figure in parenting, children's education, and cultural training, earning recognition and testimonials from key community figures, institutions, and media outlets. The Institute of Library and Museum Services, Star Tribune, TPT Weekly Almanac, and BBC Somali acknowledged her dedicated efforts to support immigrant and refugee parents and promote community involvement. 

She has presented and provided consultation services to prominent organizations such as Minneapolis Public Schools, charter schools, CAIR-MN, Minnesota Library Associations, Abu Bakr Sadiq Mosque in Minneapolis, the Minnesota Department of Education, and many library systems, including Hennepin County, Saint Paul Public Library, St. Cloud Public Library, Dakota County Library, and Faribault Education Center. 

Her professional trajectory is a series of accomplishments and a testament to her unwavering passion for creating and advocating for a safe learning environment for youth and families. Ruqia's dedication is evident in her tenure in public schools and libraries, where she expanded her expertise. Her academic achievements, a B.S. in Child Development in 2016 and an M.S. in Developmental Psychology in 2024 from Walden University reflect her commitment. In recognition of her advocacy and community contributions, Reviving Sisterhood nominated her as a Minnesota Muslim Woman Shero. 

Amidst her professional endeavors, Ruqia finds solace and joy in her role as a wife and mother, a facet of her life that adds depth to her character. She cherishes moments spent with her husband and three children, a reminder of the importance of family in her life. Ruqia Abdi is not just a professional figure but a beacon of hope, a tireless advocate, and a nurturer of dreams whose journey inspires future generations.