Khadija Ali has emerged as one of Minnesota’s most respected entrepreneurs and advocates for cultural and linguistic inclusion. As President and CEO of Global Language Connections, Khadija Ali leads with a vision rooted in service, connection, and community empowerment. Her career spans more than 13 years in the language service industry, where she has transformed a single contract into one of the largest interpreter networks in the state. A former child refugee who arrived in the United States from the Marafa refugee camp in Kenya in 1996, Khadija Ali has turned personal hardship into purpose.

From her early days interpreting for family members in San Diego to launching and scaling businesses that support more than 100 languages, her career has been defined by empathy and innovation. She is also a member of the Harvard Business School’s Young American Leadership Program and has been recognized by organizations, including the City of Minneapolis, the International Leadership Institute, and the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal. Today, Khadija Ali continues her work creating sustainable jobs for minority communities and advocating for better access to care through language. In this interview, she reflects on what drives her work and the values that keep her grounded.

Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in your chosen field?

My mother has been my greatest inspiration. My journey into entrepreneurship was sparked by my appreciation for diverse cultures and my passion for connecting with people. During my second year of college, I recognized a significant need for language services, which motivated me to transform my interest into a career. Initially, I offered these services as a hobby after work, but I soon realized it could develop into a fulfilling path.

Can you share a defining moment that shaped your career?

A pivotal moment in my career occurred when my younger sister was misdiagnosed due to a language barrier; my mother struggled to communicate with the healthcare provider. This experience underscored the critical importance of effective communication and fueled my commitment to providing language services, ensuring that others would not face similar challenges.

How would you describe your personal and professional values?

As a former child refugee, I hold compassion and community in high regard. I believe it’s essential to care for one another and create inclusive environments where everyone has access to the necessary resources. These values are at the core of my work and drive my entrepreneurial endeavors.

What advice would you give your younger self?

I would advise my younger self to practice patience and trust the process, remembering that good things often come in multiples. It’s vital to remain resilient and have faith in the journey, even when the path gets challenging.

What personal or professional achievements are you most proud of?

I take immense pride in the work we do to connect communities across the globe. Additionally, I am proud of my civic engagement efforts and the many boards I have served over the years in my state and abroad and the resources we provide to underserved communities. Knowing that I can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives motivates me every day.

How do you manage stress and maintain a healthy work-life balance to ensure overall well-being?

To manage stress, I prioritize my physical and mental health through regular exercise, prayer, and quality time with my family. These practices help me recharge and maintain balance amid my entrepreneurial responsibilities.

How do you define success?

I define success not merely by financial gain but by the positive impact I have on the lives of others. Helping people overcome language barriers and facilitating better communication is my true measure of success.

Who is the one entrepreneur or business leader you consider your greatest example and inspiration? Why?

My greatest inspiration is my mother, a successful businesswoman who instilled in me the values of hard work and community service. Her determination and commitment to helping others have profoundly influenced my journey as an entrepreneur.

Are there any charitable organizations or community service-oriented activities that you are involved in?

Yes, I actively support initiatives that provide resources and information to those in need, with a particular focus on language access and community integration.

Please tell us an inspirational, uplifting story about a time you helped change someone’s life or someone helped change your life and made a difference.

One uplifting moment was when I assisted a family in navigating the healthcare system. Overwhelmed by significant language barriers, they struggled to communicate their needs. By providing interpretation services, I helped them articulate their concerns effectively, leading to a correct diagnosis and timely treatment that saved a life. Witnessing their relief and gratitude reinforced my purpose and the importance of my work.

In addition to individual stories of impact, Khadija Ali remains focused on systemic change within Minnesota and beyond. As the population continues to diversify, her work highlights the need for inclusive services that reflect the changing needs of the communities served. Whether addressing disparities in healthcare or education, her goal is always to close the communication gap with empathy and precision.

Ali also supports workforce development and mentorship for young professionals, especially immigrants and first-generation Americans. She frequently speaks at community forums and leadership events, where she shares her journey and encourages others to turn obstacles into opportunities. Her story resonates with aspiring leaders who see in her a model of resilience and purpose-driven entrepreneurship.

Looking to the future, Ali is exploring the integration of new technologies in language services, such as AI-assisted tools, while maintaining the human-centered approach that defines her company’s values. Her ability to adapt and grow while staying rooted in her mission continues to set her apart in the industry.

Through Global Language Connections, Khadija Ali has created more than a business—she’s created a movement that champions dignity, access, and representation. Her leadership remains a vital force in Minnesota’s civic and business landscape, and her continued dedication to community uplift makes her an enduring example of how entrepreneurship can serve the greater good.

Khadija Ali continues to shape Minnesota’s business and community landscape through her dedication to service and advocacy. Her work through Global Language Connections reflects a deep belief in bridging gaps and empowering individuals. We thank Khadija Ali for sharing her story and insights.