Background
Founded in 2021, Holistic Freedom International (HFI) builds on the decades-long leadership of Dr. Agitu Wodajo, whose work has advanced women’s empowerment, community and economic development, health equity, and social policy.
Prior to establishing HFI, Dr. Wodajo founded and led the International Self-Reliance Agency for Women, Inc. (ISAW) in Minnesota. ISAW supported diverse immigrant women and their families from around the world through culturally responsive programs that promoted self-sufficiency, safety, and policy advocacy for systemic change.
Her policy advocacy efforts contributed to significant reforms, including:
- The 2004 legislation that exempted foreign-trained nurses from the CGFNS certification requirement, enabling them to take the NCLEX-RN exam after meeting state criteria.
- The 2006 rule enacted by the Minnesota Board of Barber and Cosmetologist Examiners that exempted hair braiders from state licensing requirements.
In recognition of its global impact, ISAW was granted Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) in 2003.
