Ep. 103: Iman Sheel, how can you run a home care company with refugees?

Leaders Talk - Better Leadership. Better Organizations. Better World

In episode 103 of Leaders Talk, Iman Sheel, co-founder of Sahan Cares, joins the conversation. Sahan Cares is a social enterprise based in West London that provides compassionate home care for the elderly and vulnerable, while offering meaningful employment to refugees. Iman founded the organization with her mother and brothers, driven by a vision of social impact and community support.

In this episode, Iman shares with Karsten the challenges and triumphs of building this enterprise, highlighting the resilience needed to gain trust and foster cultural understanding. She discusses the values that keep her grounded—such as humility, faith, and the importance of family—as well as her personal journey as a Somali refugee.

Timetable of the interview:

- Introduction to Sahan Cares (1:30)

- Building trust and overcoming stereotypes in the care industry (8:30)

- Why women are chosen as primary carers and the impact on the community (22:15)

- Iman’s journey: Leaving Somalia and building a life in London (31:15)

- Mentors, role models, and the influence of family and everyday people (51:00)

Further Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/iman-sheel-mba-frsa-0b5226157/ https://www.sahancares.co.uk/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/sahan-cares-c-i-c-/?originalSubdomain=uk

https://ee.whu.edu/open-programs/advanced-management-for-senior-leaders-program/

What are your reflections? Let us know your thoughts in the comments. If you have suggestions for inspiring guests at Leaders Talk, feel free to email us at [e-mail].

Guest: Iman Sheel

Host: Karsten Drath

Production & Editing: Hannah Jandl & Konradin Schuchter

Research & Preparation: Antonia Kaiser & Lena Wokurka