About
Yura Fora

Hello, I’m Yura Fora. With over 15 years of experience in marketing and graphic design, I bring a diverse skill set to the table. Growing up in Kenya, Japan, and the U.S. has profoundly shaped my design aesthetic and marketing philosophy. My expertise encompasses graphic and user interface design for web and apps, enhanced by valuable marketing experience. Drawing inspiration from a lineage of storytellers, my aim is to craft engaging narratives that resonate with audiences. I believe strong content is vital, and through expertly crafted branding and compelling messaging, I can help your brand create a powerful first impression. With a keen eye for visual communication and a solid grasp of branding strategies, I deliver designs that elevate your brand's image and captivate your target audience. I am passionate about leveraging my skills to help your business thrive. ​As both a marketer and designer, I understand the importance of storytelling in effectively conveying a brand's message. In today’s competitive landscape, engaging elements and impactful content are essential for making a lasting impression. Let’s elevate your brand’s story together through innovative strategies. Together, we can achieve your marketing goals and help you stand out in the industry. -------------------------------------- I currently reside in Minnesota with my wonderful wife and five children. Beyond my professional pursuits, I have a passion for photography, faith, family activities, travel, hiking, and youth activism.
15+
years of experience in the creative and marketing industry.
20+
years of experience in youth service work with mosques and nonprofit industry teaching and engaging in Islamic outreach work (dawah)
250+
Projects I have worked on for creative and marketing campaigns.
1000s
of hours in dawah service work over the years from teaching, mentoring and more.
5
wonderful kids who teach me new lessons on life every day.
3
countries I grew up in that has shaped my perspective on life, and impacted my design and marketing philosophy.
1
beautiful wife who keeps me grounded, and inspires me to do great every day.
1
mission on mind, and lifestyle that drives my core values.
EDUCATION
A.S In Graphic & Web Design
Minneapolis College 2011-2013
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High School Diploma
Armstrong High school 2005-2007
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EXPERIENCE
Executive Director
Manara Youth - Minneapolis, MN | 2021 - Present
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Realigned organizational projects and programs with the mission, leading to increased community engagement and participation.
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Developed and launched new educational programs, enhancing the organization's service offerings to youth.
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Created a cohesive brand identity around the new mission and vision, improving community awareness and support.
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Facilitated staff training for weekend school educators, ensuring high-quality instruction and curriculum delivery.
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Taught classes on various Islamic subjects to high school students, fostering a deep understanding of cultural and religious values.
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Managed social media content strategy, increasing online visibility and community interaction.
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Planned and executed community events, including food drives and educational seminars, significantly impacting local outreach.
Director of Marketing & Development
H2O for Life - White Bear Lake, MN | 2021 - 2023
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Led a comprehensive rebranding initiative, incorporating stakeholder feedback through surveys and strategy sessions to create a cohesive brand identity.
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Improved internal communications through the implementation of G-Suite and other collaborative tools, enhancing team productivity.
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Developed and executed an organizational growth strategy, successfully recruiting top talent and fostering a diverse team.
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Strategized and implemented impactful fundraising campaigns, significantly increasing donor engagement and contributions.
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Coordinated development and marketing committee meetings, ensuring alignment on goals and objectives.
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Designed and produced annual reports, effectively communicating organizational impact to stakeholders.
Marketing Coordinator
ARAHA - Columbia Heights, MN | 2012 - 2021 (with a work break in 2014)
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Orchestrated a Facebook campaign that boosted followers by over 2000%, from less than 1,000 to over 200,000, enhancing online presence and community engagement.
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Developed and executed annual marketing strategies, driving brand awareness and fundraising efforts.
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Produced and edited engaging video content for ad campaigns using Premiere Pro, significantly enhancing viewer engagement.
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Designed and launched a crowdfunding platform, facilitating over 100 campaigns and raising $200,000 in donations.
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Led a brand refresh initiative, including logo redesign and brand guide development, resulting in a cohesive visual identity across all platforms.
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Redesigned the website UI using Adobe XD, overseeing implementation and ensuring a user-friendly experience.
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Managed a multi-level fundraising campaign that generated over $250,000 in online donations within one month.
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Recruited and led a volunteer team that raised over $10,000 during a major conference event, showcasing leadership and team-building skills.
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Coordinated a PR campaign that successfully featured the organization's story on PBS NewsHour, significantly enhancing public visibility.
Production Manager
Budget Marketing Solutions - Columbia Heights, MN | 2014 - 2015
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Managed sales and client relationships, ensuring high satisfaction and repeat business.
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Coordinated project timelines and team workflows for design and print projects, meeting tight deadlines consistently.
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Supervised site survey appointments for sign installations, ensuring adherence to quality and safety standards.
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Designed various marketing materials, including flyers, brochures, and large-format prints, enhancing client promotional efforts.
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Assisted in production processes, overseeing the preparation and sending of files to production for timely delivery.
Co-Founder
Youth and Family Circle - St. Paul, MN | 2009 - 2013
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Co-founded a community-focused organization aimed at engaging youth and families, fostering a sense of belonging and activity within the community.
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Planned and organized numerous youth camps, social gatherings, and field trips, providing enriching experiences that promoted teamwork and leadership.
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Led initiatives advocating for Muslim civil rights, organizing protests to raise awareness and mobilize community action.
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Provided counseling and support to families and youth, coordinating intervention meetings for at-risk individuals to facilitate positive outcomes.
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Conducted hospital chaplain services, offering emotional and spiritual support to families in crisis.
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Managed a weekend school, creating a curriculum that addressed the educational and spiritual needs of youth.
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Developed and delivered “Islam 101” presentations and community outreach programs, fostering understanding and connection within the broader community.
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Director, Co-Founder, and Board Member
Minnesota Dawah Institute - St. Paul, MN | 2006 - 2009
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Co-founded and directed an organization dedicated to youth engagement and education within the Muslim community.
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Organized and facilitated social events, including sporting events, camping trips, and team-building activities, strengthening community bonds among youth.
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Developed and implemented educational programs such as workshops, lectures, and seminars, enhancing youth knowledge and skills in various subjects.
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Conducted surveys and held meetings to engage with youth, providing mentorship and guidance on personal and community issues.
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Managed communications, designing and overseeing the production of the organization’s website, flyers, pamphlets, and posters, ensuring clear messaging and outreach.
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Maintained computer systems and managed technical needs for the organization, enhancing operational efficiency.
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Produced video content, including filming, editing, and directing short sketches and educational lectures, promoting the organization’s mission.
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Documented events and activities through photography, creating a visual record of community engagement.
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Coordinated fundraising efforts, including door-to-door campaigns and in-house events, successfully securing financial support for initiatives.
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Provided financial management, handling account management and volunteer stipends, ensuring transparency and accountability.
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Served as an advisor to the president and board members, offering strategic insights to guide organizational growth and effectiveness.
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Youth Coordinator
MAS-MN - St. Paul, MN | 2004 - 2007
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Developed foundational skills in event organization, communication, and time management within a non-profit context.
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Led group discussions, encouraging open dialogue and engagement among youth participants.
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Organized camps and hosted seminars and conferences, creating opportunities for personal growth and community connection.
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Directed live camera operations from a mixing booth at conventions, enhancing the quality of event broadcasts.
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Planned and executed programs and events tailored to youth and the general public, promoting active participation and awareness.
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Delivered public speaking engagements, enhancing communication skills and community outreach.