My name is Akram Osman, and my journey began in Somalia. My family and I were refugees, and we arrived in the early 2000s to what I now call my hometown, Mankato, Minnesota. My family includes my mom, dad, four brothers and one sister. We started our new life in America with hope and determination. I began my education at Kennedy Elementary School, which is less than a mile from where I am now. Today, I serve about 1,300 students as the high school principal at Mankato East High School, my alma mater.
When we arrived in March 2001, the first thing that struck me was the cold. It was toward the end of the school year, and my first impression was shaped by the warm welcome I received from my English as a second language teacher at Kennedy Elementary. Back then, Mankato was not as racially diverse, and there were few students receiving English as a second language support. I remember having only two friends to rely on, and the teachers did their best to make me and others feel comfortable. Every night, I went home with my brain full of new information, exhausted from learning a new language. Despite the cold and the lack of diversity, these experiences were foundational in shaping who I am today.
Learning the language was one of the toughest challenges I faced. I am grateful I came to the U.S. at a young age because I saw how different my journey was compared to my older siblings. At home, my parents emphasized the importance of education and reminded us that this is the land of opportunities. It wasn't easy, but the support from my family and the educational community helped me succeed.
Throughout my journey, I have encountered many misconceptions and stereotypes about refugees in America. I want to share my story and the stories of others who came as refugees and have made significant contributions. Today, I am a high school principal, inspired by my own high school principal to pursue this career.
My definition of success has evolved over the years. When I was younger, it was about taking full advantage of the opportunities in the U.S. to secure a positive future for myself. Now, my wife Chelsea and I are focused on building a future for our family. I look forward to discussing with my children what being a refugee means and showing them that they can achieve anything they set their minds to in this great nation.
This is my seventh year in school administration, including two years as an assistant principal and five years as a principal. I am one of two Somali American school principals in Minnesota, which is a significant accomplishment. I am also involved in the Secondary Principals Association, working with other leaders of color to create spaces for connection and growth.
To other refugees navigating their way in a new country, I offer this advice: Don't lose sight of your story and the unique experiences that make you who you are. You have faced adversities and challenges, and these experiences have shaped you. Take full advantage of the opportunities in this great country, surround yourself with people who inspire and believe in you, and never lose sight of what you bring to the table.
