Dr. Hussein Warsame’s Inspiring Journey: From Somalia to Canada’s Academic Elite

Dr. Hussein Warsame, a prominent professor at the University of Calgary’s Haskayne School of Business, shared his remarkable journey during the Brooks Somali Community event, held over the Thanksgiving weekend. Reflecting on his immigration to Canada in the 1980s, Dr. Warsame highlighted his struggles in securing his first job in a new country. His story of perseverance and resilience inspired many, emphasizing the challenges that many immigrants face in adapting to new environments while pursuing their dreams.

Born in Somalia, Dr. Warsame holds a BSc in Chemistry from Somali National University. He pursued further education, earning an MBA in accounting from California State University-Fresno and later a PhD in Management from the University of Calgary. Despite his qualifications, finding employment in Canada was challenging. However, through determination and focus on his education, he eventually carved a path for himself in academia.

Since joining the University of Calgary’s Haskayne School of Business in 2000, Dr. Warsame has made significant contributions to the accounting field, focusing on taxation and financial accounting. In his speech, he credited his early experiences as an immigrant for shaping his career and fueling his passion for teaching and mentoring the next generation of business leaders.

In addition to his academic role, Dr. Warsame is widely recognized for his contributions to research and education. He has published extensively in international accounting journals and won multiple awards for his work, including the Chartered Accountants Education Foundation Teaching Excellence Prize.

Dr. Warsame’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of community support for immigrants striving to succeed in a new country.

Watch Dr. Warsame share his journey at the Brooks Somali Community event below.