The St. Cloud community is forever changed by the work that Haji Yussuf has given over the past two years as a Director at #unitecloud. I am sure that his tireless efforts, so many of which went on entirely unseen, could never be fully appreciated, though Central Minnesota will benefit from his service for many years to come.

In his own words, Haji writes:
It is with great regret that I need to inform you all of my resignation from #unitecloud.

This is a tough decision to make, I did not take it lightly. My work schedule, business here and abroad and family commitments have become such that I cannot continue to volunteer the time necessary to do my job with #unitecloud with the thoroughness I would like. I also want to go on an adventure with my 3 year old son, and my 1 year old daughter, along with my lovely wife.

This doesn’t mean I am leaving the world of activism behind, but looking to do better at what I do. I also want to find better ways to bring people together, and I have learned from past experience.

Now I feel I am in a place where my voice can be heard without fear and being truthful. Thank you for the opportunity, and best wishes to you all.

Sincerely yours,
Haji Yussuf

Truth be told, Haji started his community work long before joining the #unitecloud team – and we know he will continue to give to his community, even while spending more time dedicated to his family and career. One of the ways he will continue to share his wisdom is as a member of the #unitecloud speaking team. He has workshops and trainings lined up over the next couple of months in Central MN, greater MN, and even in North Dakota!

Finally, some parting words from our director, Natalie, to Haji:
I remember meeting you at the river, as we mourned for little Hamza. I watched you move gracefully between community members that were there to leave stuffed animals and cards, thanking each one and hugging them, comforting them as they mourned for a boy most did not know. My family and I were there for hours, but, you had been there long before we came. You stayed until the end, bringing Hamza’s parents to see the cards and gifts that the community had brought for their family. As they wept, we wept. It was the first time we shared powerful emotion – but it certainly wasn’t the last.

Haji, we’ve been through so much in the last couple of years. I attended my first Iftar, wore my first hijab, and found myself saying “Inshallah” (if God wills it), even when you weren’t around. You attended your first Thanksgiving at my parent’s house, answered any and all questions that our community had, and sang 1950’s songs to us during board meetings.

Because of you, I am bolder. Because of you, I know better how to stand up for others and for myself. Because of you, I saw this community embrace change in a way I didn’t think was possible two years ago.

May you continue to bring whirlwinds of change and laughter wherever the next road may lead you, Inshallah.

So much love to you and your family – always,
Natalie