About Us

Who We Are

Empowering Communities

Established in 1999, SCERDO is a registered Canadian charity and community-driven organization dedicated to empowering Albertans. We foster community resilience through comprehensive settlement services, youth leadership programming, employment skills training, and dedicated social justice advocacy.

Our History

1999

Founded in Ottawa

SCERDO was established in Ottawa as a community-led organization dedicated to supporting the education, settlement, and integration of African Canadians and newcomers.

2010s

Expansion into Youth & Employment Services

In response to youth violence concerns and newcomer barriers, SCERDO expanded into youth and employment services. Providing skill development and work experience established youth employment as a core pillar of its Edmonton operations.

2015

Sponsorship Agreement Holder Designation

SCERDO became a Sponsorship Agreement Holder (SAH), expanding its private refugee sponsorship capabilities and connecting newcomers with critical settlement guidance and resources across Canada.

2018–2023

Growth of Newcomer and Community Programming

SCERDO scaled its settlement, job preparation, and integration services for newcomers in Edmonton, linking immediate needs to long-term employment, self-sufficiency, and civic engagement.

2024

Expansion of Employment and Skills Training

Through multi-year contribution agreements with ESDC and the Government of Alberta, SCERDO expanded structured employment programming to support newcomer youth through skills development, employer engagement, and supported placements.

Present

Advancing Newcomer Support in Edmonton

Building on over two decades of impact, SCERDO is broadening its settlement, employment, language training, and digital literacy initiatives. A key priority is establishing an expanded service centre to better serve newcomers, refugees, and families in partnership with the community.

Our Mission

To advocate for Alberta’s African and Black communities by championing education, economic empowerment, and sustainable resource management. We are committed to the belief that community enhancement is the cornerstone of long-term social and economic prosperity.

Our Vision

To cultivate a dynamic ecosystem where communities and partners collaborate to drive education, self-reliance, and sustainable development for a thriving future.

Our People

At SCERDO, we believe that strong communities are built by strong people. Behind every program, service, and success story at SCERDO is a dedicated team committed to strengthening our community. Our people bring diverse experiences, cultural understanding, and a shared passion for empowering individuals and families across Alberta.

Khalid Hashi

Executive Director

Khalid Hashi is SCERDO’s Executive Director, serving as a cornerstone since 2022 by leading community growth initiatives and responsive programming dedicated to the long-term success of newcomers and families.

Khalid Hashi Executive Director

Moe Ahmed

Program Manager

Moe Ahmed is a results-oriented Program Manager and community developer who oversees SCERDO’s daily operations and employment programs, leading community engagement and connecting newcomers with vital resources.

Moe Ahmed Program Manager

Hassan Mahad

Program Administrator

Hassan Mahad, SCERDO’s Administrative Professional, manages daily operations, program logistics, and documentation with a detail-oriented approach to ensure efficient service delivery and a supportive environment for staff and clients.

Hassan Mahad Program Administrator

Awo Hassan

Employment Program Facilitator

Awo Hassan, an Employment Program Facilitator at SCERDO, helps participants build skills, prepare for the workforce, and unlock meaningful job opportunities through personalized guidance, fostering confidence in their employment pathways.

Awo Hassan Employment Program Facilitator

Lul Ibrahim

Career Coach

Lul Ibrahim, SCERDO’s first employee since 2008 and current Career Coach, uses her extensive background and a client-focused approach to mentor participants in job readiness and career development, helping them sustain employment.

Lul Ibrahim Career Coach

Liban Ali

SAH Coordinator

As SCERDO’s Immigration Coordinator, Liban Ali facilitates settlement and integration services through direct client support, empowering newcomers to navigate complex systems and build stable foundations in their new communities.

Liban Ali SAH Coordinator

Our Values

Collaboration

We partner with stakeholders, government agencies, and community organizations to maximize our collective impact and foster sustainable change.

Empowerment

We foster self-reliance and personal growth to empower individuals and strengthen our communities.

Inclusivity

We embrace diversity and ensure so that every individual has equal access to opportunities.

Accountability

We uphold transparency and ethical practices through the responsible stewardship of all resources.

Respect

We treat every individual with dignity, empathy, and deep cultural sensitivity.

Innovation

We adopt creative and forward-thinking approaches to effectively address the evolving needs of our community.

Social Justice

We promote fairness and equality while advocating for the fundamental rights of marginalized populations.

Community Engagement

We actively involve the community in our decision-making processes and the development of our programs.