Anisa Hagi – Linguist | Artist | Poet

Anisa Hagi-Mohamed

A 1.5 Generation Somali-American linguist, author, artist, poet and Maangaar (Autism) advocate. Anisa is passionate about empowering communities through culture, language, mental health, and advocating for neurodiversity.

Changing Words to Transform Lives
TEDxStCloud

October 12th, 2023

TEDx Talk

The world's first English and Somali affirmation cards. Created by Anisa in 2021 to promote healing and cultural pride. Kalsooni was inspired by her journey as a bicultural and bilingual Somali immigrant, these cards foster positivity and connection through affirmations rooted in Somali heritage.

Created with support from an artist grant from The Waterers

Kalsooni Cards

In 2020, Maangaar was coined as a culturally grounded Somali word for autism, growing into a larger movement fueled by a collective of parents, professionals, providers, and self-advocates. As co-founder and Board Chair of non-profit organization Maangaar Voices, I help carry that vision forward through advocacy, community, and belonging.

Visit Website: www.MaangaarVoices.org

Maangaar Means Unique Mind