Motivated by her experiences as an immigrant navigating systems without adequate language access, Khadija Ali saw firsthand how the lack of interpretation, translation, and cultural understanding could create barriers in critical settings, from healthcare to education to legal services. Those early challenges would ultimately shape the mission that led her to build a company rooted in equity, cultural competency, and community impact.
That vision became the foundation of Global Language Connections, where Ali now serves as president and CEO.
Founded in 2015, the Minneapolis-based firm provides interpretation, translation, and cultural consulting services in more than 200 languages. Since its launch, Global Language Connections has expanded to serve clients across healthcare, education, legal, and government sectors nationwide.
Born in Mogadishu, Somalia, Ali fled the country’s civil war with her family, enduring a perilous journey through Kenya before resettling in the United States in 1996. Her early encounters with language barriers in healthcare became the catalyst for a career dedicated to bridging linguistic and cultural divides.
From her beginnings as a healthcare interpreter to leading one of Minnesota’s largest language service providers, Ali’s purpose has remained constant: empowering people through connection and understanding.
She believes language is more than communication — it represents access, opportunity, and dignity.
“Whether it's delivering accurate interpretation in critical healthcare settings or creating sustainable job opportunities in underserved communities, my work is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves to be heard and understood,” Ali says.
In the early days of building her business, Ali often encountered skepticism, particularly as a woman of color operating in a male-dominated industry.
“People questioned my expertise or underestimated the importance of language access,” she recalls. “I pushed through by staying grounded in the mission, showing up consistently, and investing in relationships within the communities we serve. That trust became our strongest asset.”
Over time, Ali’s leadership style has become increasingly collaborative and intentional. As the company has grown, so has her commitment to ensuring diverse voices are heard — internally, with partners, and throughout the communities Global Language Connections supports.
“Strong leadership in this industry means listening closely, empowering others, and making decisions with equity at the center,” she says.
As a certified woman-owned business, Ali notes that the designation has helped open doors and build trust with organizations seeking partners who reflect the communities they serve.
“Many organizations value working with businesses that align with their diversity and inclusion goals, and that alignment has been essential to our growth,” she adds.
Ali also believes women bring unique strengths to the language access field, including empathy, cultural awareness, and a deep sense of community responsibility.
“These qualities help foster meaningful connections with clients and lead to solutions that genuinely reflect community needs,” she says.
At Global Language Connections, Ali has worked to intentionally shape a culture built on open communication, representation at every level, and strong investment in professional development.
“It’s important that women don’t just feel seen, but feel supported,” she explains. “That means creating opportunities to lead, innovate, and help guide the direction of the company.”
Mentorship, she says, has played a defining role in her own journey — and now she makes it a priority to offer that same support to others.
“I’ve been fortunate to receive guidance at key moments, and I try to pay that forward through mentoring and advocacy, whether through formal programs or personal relationships.”
When asked what advice she would give women considering entrepreneurship, Ali is clear:
“Trust your vision. Build a strong network. Advocate for yourself boldly. Persistence is essential, especially in spaces where women are still underrepresented. Your leadership matters — sometimes more than you realize.”
Ali’s influence extends well beyond her company. She currently serves on the boards of the Minneapolis Foundation, Global Minnesota, and the Citizens League.
In 2017, she was selected for Harvard Business School’s Young American Leaders Program, recognizing her commitment to cross-sector collaboration and community development. Her achievements have also earned her the 2013 International Immigrant Achievement Award from the International Leadership Institute and the 2018 Nelson Mandela Award as a UNESCO Center for Peace Cross Cultural Ambassador.
Balancing the roles of mother, executive, and community advocate is no small task, but Ali approaches it with clarity and support.
As Ali reflects on her journey, she is mindful of the path she hopes to create for future women entrepreneurs, particularly those from immigrant and multicultural backgrounds.
“I want to leave a legacy of inclusion, opportunity, and representation,” she says. “I want young women to see themselves in leadership and know their perspectives are not only valid, but valuable. My goal is to help build systems that make it easier for the next generation to thrive and lead with confidence.”
