Meet Sajdah Ali

We recently connected with Sajdah Ali and have shared our conversation below.

Sajdah Ali, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?

I empowered myself in these situations by viewing my uniqueness as a strength and desired rarity. Over time, I realized that many people who are leaders in my areas of expertise look, speak and sell the same story. However, more than often, the audience they are attracting DO NOT look like them and want to succeed in that particular area of business, as well. From there I decided I would represent the few who needed representation and the opportunity to believe they can operate in this field of service. By doing this, I began to tell my story, share my journey, and highlight how connections were made to advance myself this far in my business. When I saw more and more people who looked like me gaining interest in what I do, then the less I felt alone and uncommon. In otherwards, by me feeling confident to show up as 1, I was able to make room for others to show up as ‘many’.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

My work began in the nonprofit world, partnering with companies and governments in developing countries to build strong educational infrastructure. In regions with limited resources but limitless potential, I focused on helping others lay the foundation for systems that uplift entire communities.

​With a BA in Speech and Communication, an M.Ed in Special Education, and ongoing doctoral studies in International Education and Globalization, I’ve combined academic depth with real-world experience. My 25+ year career spans Special Education, Curriculum Design, Workforce Training, and Business Development, along with expertise in DEI, UDI, SDI, EdTech, Adult Learning, and Higher Education.

​As my work evolved, so did my mission, from building schools to building stronger, more connected teams within organizations. I now help leaders and teams align through strategic consulting, training, and systems design, bringing transformation to sectors ranging from education to technology.

​Today, my company empowers organizations to be more effective, inclusive, and human-centered, connecting people across the workforce and turning potential into performance.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

The 3 most important qualities that were (and still are) the most impactful in my journey are:

Passion: Doing the things that you are more passionate about keep your belief in yourself steadfast and facing obstacles possible. When you do not enjoy the work you do, you can quickly lose interest and desire to complete everyday task and long-term projects. People will see the discontent in your face, and ultimately, will lose trust and faith in the skills you have. So, do what you enjoy and passionate about.

Connection: being able to connect to the service or task you’re passionate about adds to the journey. This is especially important when you are working to serve people. Being able to understand and relate to their story helps you to see, objectively, how you can improve the situation they suffer from because you can empathetically or sympathetically connect to the importance of having their needs met. To do this, I recommend living or working amongst the people you are task to serve, particularly if you’re work is internationally based. Learning cultural differences and connecting with diverse backgrounds will help you maintain the focus and passion of your work.

Networking: Nothing can be done alone! Community is key when it comes to business building. Regardless the stage of your business, building networks with people who share the work you do is vital in expanding your brand, getting your name known by others, and maintain positive references. Often potential clients are willing and wanting to work with companies they’ve heard about from social groups they are a part of. This way they know your reputation is vetted by other people or companies they trust and consult with. So, however you build your brand, make sure you are making connections are the same time.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

My company is always open to business collaborations and partnership opportunities.

I can be reached at [email protected]

Website: Assayworld.com
LinkedIn.com/assayworldconsultants

Contact Info:

• Website: assayworld.com, iepconsultant.com
• Instagram: @iep_consultant
• Facebook: facebook.com/assayworld, facebook.com/iepconsultant
• Linkedin: linkedin.com/assayworld.com, linkedin.com/iepconsultant.com

Image Credits

Tyrone Aiken
Ty Aiken Digital Designs