January 8, 2023
WoEgypt

Heidi Abdel Kader, a proud daughter of Egypt, born and raised in the USA has been a leader in her community through volunteerism and service for over 19 years. Heidi’s love of family, Egyptian culture, and history only grew with each of her summer visits. 

Heidi earned her Master’s degree in Public Health from the University of Minnesota, is currently an adjunct professor in a global health graduate program, owns her own clinical research consulting firm specializing in medical and combinations devices, and is joyfully raising three boys with her husband, Ahmed. 

Alongside her professional work, Heidi always found time to support her children’s schools through service and volunteerism. She saw and understood the intersectionality in all that impact a child’s life. In addition to volunteering in the district where her kids attend school, she served on the board of two hospitals, serves on the board of a local masjid, and partnered to develop a thriving summer camp which empowers Muslim kids in their identities as both Muslim and American. 

At the height of the pandemic, Heidi jumped into one of the most highly contentious and difficult American elections. On November 2^nd, she became the first Middle Eastern/North African to be elected to the Wayzata School Board in Minnesota, USA. One of twelve candidates, she earned a four-year term in a landslide win with the highest number votes for a newcomer in a record-breaking election. 

Heidi has a strong commitment to public education and believes it to be the foundation of a solid society. “Quality education is foundational to lifelong personal wellbeing and strong communities. The work ahead will be hard – long-term pandemic recovery, keeping our students safe and healthy – both body and mind, advocating within our government to fully fund public education, and above all – giving each student access to a world-class education that propels them into their future. The hard work of serving our students and families brings me joy and such fulfillment – even in the hardest times. But, this is what it’s all about – building a better and brighter future one student at a time.”

When asked about how she balances work and family responsibilities, she had this to say, “I’m no different than any other woman – things are busy in life whether you’re a mother, a wife, a daughter, a sister, a friend, a neighbor. I try not to do anything in excess in life. If the balanced days are more than the days of controlled chaos, I think I’m doing ok!”

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