In today’s episode of Women In Supply Chain, I’m joined Amani Radman: an amazing woman on two very special missions. To provide reliable, cost-effective transportation services through her own logistics brand; and, to champion the power of diversity in supply chain.
Born in Somalia, Amani moved to the US and achieved a degree in supply logistics, management and leadership from Portland State University before going on to establish a successful corporate career. Having gained extensive experience across supplier management, business process and operations, Amani went on to found her own business, Malao Logistics, Minnesota’s premier logistics company specializing in freight brokerage and transportation services.
Today Amani will be talking to us about her career so far; moving out of the corporate world to found her own business; taking a family approach to logistics; and the importance of diversity in industry. Plus, she’ll be sharing her experiences as a woman in supply chain, as well as her words of advice for all of the women following in her footsteps.
This Women in Supply Chain feature was made possible by our sponsor, Emerge. As a company focused on empowering and growing meaningful supply chain relationships, Emerge is proud to sponsor Women in Supply Chain. Through its freight procurement platform, Emerge offers solutions that enhance the spot and contract procurement process, enabling shippers and carriers to make more strategic decisions.
[08.37] Amani’s background growing up in Somalia, and her brave decision to move to the USA to start a new life at age 18.
[10.32] How Amani found supply chain, and why she’s so passionate about it.
“Coming from Somalia, I want to be able to connect the dots… and what is the best way to do that? With logistics, because there’s always transport.”
[13.25] Amani’s experience at global outdoor brand Columbia Sportswear Company, and how the woman-led business inspired her.
“Coming from a male-dominated company, all the leadership… everybody was a woman!... It really showed me what it is to be a woman in supply chain, and how to take it to the next level.”
[15.47] Amani’s previous role at Boeing, the importance of supplier diversity and how businesses should approach it.
“Think of it like a mentorship program… the more you mentor us, the more we get bigger and the more we can support you – you can literally customize us the way you want to!”
[20.35] The differences between corporate and small business, and why Amani made the decision to start her own company, Malao Logistics.
“In corporate, things move so slow… and the supply chain doesn’t wait!”
[23.09] A closer look at Malao, what they do, and how they help their customers.
[25.21] Some of the challenges Amani has faced whilst establishing Malao Logistics.
“The hardest part is being accepted in the community… I know the journey is hard, but I have to do this for all the women… I want to be the woman they look up to and say ‘well she did it, why can’t I?’”
[27.22] Amani’s experiences at large industry events, particularly as a woman who wears a head scarf.
[32.56] How Amani found, and embraced, her voice, and her advice for others.
“Don’t give up on your dreams, because if you give up on yourself, don’t expect anyone else to believe in you.”
[36.47] The future for Amani, and for Malao Logistics.
[38.42] Amani’s final words of wisdom for the women following in her footsteps.
You can connect with Amani over on LinkedIn.
If you'd like to hear more from Amani, check out Episode 20 of Blended – DEI in the Workplace – Not Just The Smart Thing To Do, But The Right Thing To Do. And if you want to find out more about another incredible woman building her own logistics firm, check out Episode 205, where Kristy Knichel reflects on her journey and the numerous benefits of working with a certified woman-owned and operated business.
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