Meet Hodan, Ambassador of Federal Republic of Somalia to china Wins Women Leader of The Year 2024
Mogadishu (LM) Dr. Hodan Osman Abdi is a visionary diplomat, accomplished academic, and a tireless advocate for inclusive development. As Somalia’s Ambassador to China, she brings a unique blend of intellectual depth, cultural understanding, and strategic leadership to one of the most critical bilateral relationships for Somalia’s future. Hodan’s contribution to the nation and people of Somalia has created that she has been recognized as Women Leader of Year 2024 after online System Voting conducted by Leadership Magazine Somalia.
Dr. Abdi’s professional journey is defined by her unwavering commitment to driving transformative change. Prior to her current role, she served as the Senior Advisor on Human Capital Development to the Somali Prime Minister, where she led pioneering initiatives to strengthen Somalia’s workforce, empower women, and build a foundation for sustainable economic growth. She has also served in high-level advisory roles within the Somali government, providing strategic counsel on international relations and development, particularly during key periods of Somalia’s recovery and institutional rebuilding.
An accomplished academic, Dr. Abdi spent six years as an Associate Professor at Zhejiang Normal University, where she founded and directed the Center for East African Studies. Her work in academia extended beyond the classroom, fostering cultural exchange and promoting collaborative development between China and East Africa. She also served as Deputy Director of the Center for African Film and TV Studies, co-directing an award-winning documentary that highlighted her ability to bridge storytelling and diplomacy to foster understanding.
