Ayan Mohamed is a refugee and U.S. citizen with eight years of experience working as an interpreter who speaks five languages.

She is a prominent leader in the refugee community as well as overseeing Uzima’s outreach and marketing programs.

Ayan is passionately committed to helping refugees settling in Idaho. She has personal experience with trauma and understands the complex issues refugees face in acclimating to an unfamiliar culture.

Heidi Shanklin-Stark is a former mental health practitioner with expertise in trauma-informed care and EMDR therapy.

Utilizing her 19 years of experience in maintaining information systems, Heidi plays a key role in Uzima’s administrative operations. 

Marilyn Sears received her MSW degree from Boise State University in 1996, and did adoption work until March of 1997 when she began counseling. 

She has expertise with autistic spectrum disorders as well as chronic and severe mental illness, including bipolar disorder, dissociative disorders, schizophrenia, generalized anxiety, depression, and personality disorders.

Marilyn is particularly passionate about working with the refugee population in Idaho, and draws on her expertise as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional to serve those in trauma recovery.

With over 20 years in international retail, I bring a wealth of experience to the field of Human Resources. My passion lies in protecting and empowering our greatest asset: our employees.

I transitioned to HR because I believe in the transformative power of creating a safe and supportive work environment.

My background allows me to understand the unique challenges faced by our workforce and develop effective strategies to address them.

I am dedicated to fostering a culture of respect, engagement, and well-being for all.