SC Times
Saturday September 26, 2020
A St. Cloud woman is being honored with a statewide award for her work to strengthen the community.
Stearns County social worker Farhiya Iman has been awarded a 2020 Minnesota Department of Human Services Outstanding Refugee Award. Iman also owned Nori Cafe & Creamery, which announced its closure in August.
"People who come to the United States as refugees endure great hardship in order to realize their hopes for a better life for themselves and their families," Human Services Commissioner Jodi Harpstead said in a press release. "I'm so pleased to acknowledge the achievements of these individuals who have done so much to unify Minnesota and make our state a better place to live."
Ten refugees were honored this year. Iman was one of five who received the Civic Engagement Award. Other awardees were recognized for entrepreneurship, young leadership and "significant efforts during their first two years in the state."
The award ceremony was canceled because of the pandemic. This year's award-winners will be recognized at next year's event, the press release said.