Our Challenge

A passionate community advocate and first-generation Somali Bantu refugee, Amina brings a powerful combination of lived experience, professional expertise, and commitment to equity. Her journey from navigating systems for her own family to building an organization that now serves hundreds of youth and families is a testament to her resilience and leadership.

Her leadership style is informed by both data and deep community connection.

Under her direction, More Than a Smile has grown from a small volunteer-led tutoring initiative to a multi-program nonprofit addressing critical gaps in mentorship, women's empowerment, and community engagement for minority, immigrant, and refugee populations. Amina’s unique ability to connect with underserved families, mobilize resources, and inspire collective action has made her a trusted voice in her community and beyond.

With a deep understanding of cultural traditions and the immigrant journey, Fatuma plays a critical role in building bridges between communities and creating safe, welcoming spaces for women and families.

As a skilled chef and henna artist, Fatuma uses her creative talents not only as a form of cultural expression but also as tools for empowerment. Her workshops and gatherings often serve as healing spaces where women can connect, share their stories, and support one another. Through these efforts, she has earned the trust of many women in the community who may otherwise feel isolated or overlooked.

She advocates for opportunities that allow immigrant women to thrive — from entrepreneurship and job training to wellness programs and leadership development. Her work consistently centers on lifting up voices that are too often unheard and creating inclusive environments where everyone feels seen, valued, and supported.

With years of experience as a trusted health worker and advocate, she has worked closely with underserved immigrant and refugee families, helping them navigate complex healthcare systems and access critical resources.

Deeply rooted in the communities she serves, Shamso uses her lived experience and cultural insight to build trust, foster understanding, and serve as a vital bridge between marginalized families and the institutions meant to support them. Her work goes beyond service — it is grounded in empathy, cultural humility, and a passion for equity.

In her leadership role, Shamso plays an instrumental part in guiding the organization’s vision and strategic direction. 

Susan brings a powerful blend of lived experience, academic ambition, and a deep commitment to community service.

In her role as Secretary, she supports the organization’s internal operations, communications, and record-keeping — helping ensure the organization runs smoothly and effectively. As a Student Intern, she plays a unique role in shaping youth engagement strategies, offering valuable insight into the needs, aspirations, and challenges faced by immigrant and refugee youth in Louisville. Her presence on the team brings energy, innovation, and a strong connection to the next generation of changemakers More Than a Smile seeks to inspire.