Nasra Wehelie​​

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Nasra Wehelie is a public servant, equity strategist, and founder of Empathy 4 Equity LLC. She made history as the first Somali American and first Muslim woman elected to the Madison City Council, where she championed inclusive governance and culturally responsive policy. A recipient of the YWCA Madison Women of Distinction Award and other civic honors, Nasra brings decades of experience working at the intersection of community advocacy, public policy, and systems change.

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Her work is deeply rooted in the belief that transformational leadership begins with listening — and that equity is not an aspiration, but an obligation. She is a trusted voice in helping organizations bridge divisions and lead with compassion and accountability.

Born in Somalia and a proud resident of Dane County for over 35 years, Nasra has lived at the intersection of many identities. As a Black, Muslim, Somali immigrant woman, she has often been the only one in the room who looks like her, whether serving on nonprofit boards, advising school districts, or working with local government.

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Nasra holds a BA in International Relations from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and an MBA from Cardinal Stritch University. She has spent the last 15 years in the nonprofit sector, leading initiatives that center community voice, equity, and systems change.

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Her lived experience, combined with a deep understanding of systemic inequality, shaped her belief that empathy must be more than a feeling. It must be a practice, a tool, and a strategy for transformation. In today’s increasingly polarized world, empathy is essential to solving our most complex challenges — from workplace discrimination to structural racism. Nasra believes that when we truly listen, meet people where they are, and understand perspectives different from our own, we create space for deeper connection and lasting change.

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Whether leading community initiatives or guiding organizations through internal change, Nasra brings an unwavering commitment to building cultures of empathy. She understands that meaningful transformation begins when we center the human experience and create environments where everyone feels seen, valued, and heard.

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Nasra has spent her life breaking barriers while building bridges. She is known for her ability to hold space for difficult conversations and guide institutions through polarization with grace, empathy, and authenticity.