Meet Mohammed and Shaza, Future Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity Homeowners

In 2015, Mohamed and Shaza made a life-changing decision: they left Sudan through the Diversity Visa program in search of a better life for their growing family. After a brief stay in Florida, they settled in Iowa City, drawn by a strong Sudanese community and the promise of a safer, more stable future. 
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Mohamed, a former engineer in Sudan, quickly began working to support his family. Today, he works as a machine operator at a local factory, often switching between first and second shifts and working long hours of overtime.
Meanwhile, Shaza, who recently completed her studies to become a dental assistant, is at home most days of the week managing the needs of their four children—Logian, Mustafa, Dania, and Leen. With Mohamed’s rotating schedule, the rhythm of family life is constantly shifting. “When he's working first shift, I have to wake up at four something,” says Shaza. “And when he works second shift, they have to be up until 11 or 12 at night until he comes back from work.” 

Despite these challenges, the family maintains a deep sense of community and cultural pride. The Sudanese community has been a vital source of support. “If something happened, like anyone lost one of his family, everyone supports them,” Mohamed shares. “Even the people you don't know, you’ve never met them before.” Shaza adds, “If we need them, we will find them.” 

The family's current apartment in Coralville has been home since 2018. It’s safe and close to the children’s schools, but the space is cramped—especially for a growing family. “The kids need more space,” Mohamed says. “[Our oldest] needs her own space. She wants to have play dates with her friends, but you couldn’t do that here.” Shaza adds simply, “More space. We need more space.”

For Mohamed and Shaza, owning a home represents far more than a roof over their heads—it is the culmination of years of hard work and sacrifice. “Finally, the dream of owning a home will become true,” Mohamed says. It’s also an investment in their children’s future. “My goal was safety. And good schools. This is my investment in my kids. I want to send them on the right track. Invest in them better so they can do better. They say the kids are affected positively or negatively by their surroundings, so this is a very important thing,” Mohamed shares.
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For this family, a Habitat home means play dates, outdoor barbecues, space for schoolwork, quiet for sleep, and a secure neighborhood where their children can thrive. “It is really amazing, especially for the people who have kids, a family, young kids. Something to give them a stable area, a stable life.” 

Their story is one of perseverance, community, and hope. “Thank you so much. We appreciate all the help you’ve done for us,” Mohamed says. “I’m investing in my kids. I need at least to have something for them for the future. It’s not a month, or two years—it’s something for the future.”