Who is Selma Abdulhai?

Hi there! I am Selma Abdulhai. Thank you for stopping by to learn more about me.
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I am a first-generation Eritrean American based out of New Jersey. As the daughter of Eritrean refugees, the immigrant and refugee story is crucial to my narrative. Amplifying the voices of the Eritrean people is an important part of my mission, which is why I work with the Kebire Relief Organization, a non-profit that helps support Eritrean orphans and refugees living in Sudan, Ethiopia, and Eritrea.
I am also passionate about mental health access to the BIPOC (Black and Indigenous People of Color) and Muslim communities. I work with the Journal of Muslim Mental Health to help educate mental health providers on how to deliver appropriate care to these populations.
In my free time, you can usually find me at the rock climbing gym or reading. I love rock climbing and I also love to see representation in rock climbing, which is why I am part of organizations like Brown Girls Climb, Ladies Crew Climbing, and Bipoc Climbers. My first love has always been reading and I am passionate about stories of diversity, equity, and inclusion. I have led a DEI book club at IBM for the past two years and we have read books like The Sun Does Shine, Educated, Kindred, Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents, and many more important works. Feel free to message me for a book recommendation!
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That's who Selma is in a nutshell! Now, as for what I do...
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I'm a strategic and passionate storyteller with over ten years of experience developing winning narratives. I utilize my knowledge and expertise as a Narrative and Content Strategist at IBM, developing data-driven strategies to create captivating messaging about technology, including AI, data, governance, security, hybrid cloud, and more. I am a lifelong learner with a growth mindset, which is why I am currently pursuing a master's degree in Communications and Digital Media at Rutgers University. I am passionate about amplifying BIPOC and immigrant stories and mental health education. Whether you're looking to collaborate or just connect, my door is open!
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