From Minneapolis to international basketball courts and into the Microsoft ecosystem, Hanad’s journey is powered by resilience, ambition, and a commitment to growth. Grounded in his roots as the son of Somali immigrants, he’s building a future defined by purpose—and impact. 

Rooted in Purpose: From Immigrant Beginnings to Big Aspirations 

Born in California and raised in Minnesota, Hanad grew up shaped by his parents’ experience as refugees rebuilding their lives. Their sacrifices instilled a deep sense of responsibility and drive. 

“I’ve seen my parents work endlessly,” Hanad shares. “Everything I do is about honoring that.” Rather than focusing on proving others wrong, he focuses inward. “I’ve always just been trying to prove myself right.”  

A Global Journey: Lessons from the Court 

After high school, Hanad pursued professional basketball abroad, playing across Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. Over five years, he gained not only athletic experience but global perspective. 

“Basketball took me places I never imagined,” he reflects. The experience built adaptability, discipline, and confidence—qualities that would later define his transition into tech. 

Discovering TechFluent: A Turning Point 

Hanad’s introduction to TechFluent came through a neighborhood friend, Zaini Sharif-Mohamed. His confidence grew through his mentor, Bobby Small, who saw potential in him immediately. Initially uncertain, he quickly found clarity once immersed in the program. 

The defining moment came when discussing imposter syndrome. Realizing that even successful professionals, like the Program’s Executive Director Carol Smock, have experienced it… fully shifted his mindset. 

“It’s a feeling—it doesn’t mean it’s the truth,” he says. “I thought… if this woman who is obviously successful and had enjoyed a 30+ year career can experience moments of Imposter Syndrome – then how can I let it stop me?” From there, he committed completely to the journey. 

Embracing the Craft: Technology, Community, and Growth 

At TechFluent, Hanad developed skills across Power Platform and Dynamics 365. He found particular fulfillment in connecting business needs to technical solutions. 

“I love working with stakeholders and turning ideas into something real,” he says. 

Equally impactful was the community. Mentors and peers provided not just knowledge, but time and support. “People here genuinely care. That means everything.”  

Stepping Into the Spotlight: Conferences & Connections 

Attending Summit North America and DynamicsCon elevated Hanad’s confidence and visibility. “Summit changed my life,” he shares.  

These events allowed him to connect with industry leaders, participate in interviews, and recognize his own readiness. Specifically, he recalls, learning about System Administration from Heidi Neuhauser has significantly impacted his design and build approach. 

At DynamicsCon, he saw his growth firsthand. “I understood the material at a deeper level because I had been building in it,” he explains.  

A Vision for Impact: Breaking Barriers in Tech 

Hanad is currently pursuing roles as a Functional or Associate Consultant in  Microsoft’s Frontier Firms, with long-term goals that extend beyond career advancement. “I want to be the first Somali Microsoft MVP,” he says. His vision is rooted in representation—creating a path others can follow. 

Staying Connected and Giving Back 

Hanad plans to remain deeply involved in the TechFluent community. Whether mentoring, leading sessions, or supporting new cohorts, he’s committed to paying it forward. “I want to give back the same way I was supported,” he explains.  

Words to Live By 

His message reflects the mindset that carried him forward: “Never listen to that voice that says you’re not enough—it’s not the truth.”  

Looking Forward 

From global basketball experiences to emerging leadership in tech, Hanad is stepping confidently into his future. With purpose, persistence, and community at his core, he’s not just building a career—he’s opening doors for others along the way.