S. Miata Getaweh D’18 speaks at the African Immigrant Professional Development Conference.
On Sept. 22, more than 140 African immigrant professionals gathered at North Hennepin Community College in Brooklyn Park, Minn., for the first annual African Immigrant Professional Development Conference, which was organized by S. Miata Getaweh D’18, Doctor of Business Administration alumna. A number of Saint Mary’s University doctoral students were in attendance. Opening remarks were offered by Nerita Hughes, dean of business, technology, career and workforce development at North Hennepin Community College and current Ed.D. student at Saint Mary’s. The afternoon session commenced with Dr. Getaweh’s presentation “The Experiences of African Immigrants who have Successfully Matriculated to Managerial Positions in Minnesota.” This dissertation research was the driving force behind the conference and a first step to bring African immigrant professionals together for networking and professional development purposes. The evening session concluded with a panel discussion about achieving career success and encouraging participants to network, build social capital, understand the culture, and continue to stand up against discriminatory practices in the workplace. Keynote speakers and panelists included many leaders from the Twin Cities community.