She has spent her life turning pain into purpose — and purpose into power.

When Dr. Khadija Coll speaks about equality and inclusion, she doesn’t rely on theory or abstract ideals. She speaks from experience.

Born in Isiolo, Kenya, her story began under the dry heat of East Africa, where she witnessed firsthand how displacement and inequality shape lives. As a young woman working with the UNHCR, Khadija walked alongside refugees and women who had lost everything. It was there she learned that true leadership begins with listening.

Those early lessons became the foundation of a lifelong calling: to make the world fairer, safer, and more humane.

More than two decades ago, Khadija moved to Scotland, bringing that same fire for justice with her. Starting anew wasn’t easy as she faced unfamiliar systems, cultural divides, and the quiet weight of being “the newcomer.” But instead of stepping back, she built bridges.

She went on to found One Community Scotland, an award-winning, youth-led charity that helps refugees, asylum seekers, and families find belonging in their new home. Through her leadership, the organisation has supported countless New Scots, tackling poverty, gender-based violence, mental health challenges, and the silent ache of cultural transition.

Khadija’s activism has long been a force for change. Her tireless campaigning against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) helped shape the 2005 legislation that protects girls and women in Scotland today.

And when the world went quiet during the COVID-19 pandemic, she didn’t. Khadija secured funding for food support, mental health services, and domestic abuse assistance, proving that for her, care is an action, not just an idea.

Today, she continues her mission within Police Scotland’s Scottish Violence Reduction Unit, leading initiatives that tackle the root causes of inequality and exclusion. Her work demonstrates that inclusion is prevention, protection, and peace-building, not mere policy.

For her decades of service, Dr. Coll has been widely recognised. She has been named Diversity Champion of the Year, a Scotswoman of the Year finalist, and a recipient of the Chief Constable’s Bravery and Excellence Award. In 2020, she was honoured with an MBE for her contributions to gender rights and refugee support. Most recently, the University of Stirling awarded her an honorary Doctorate for her outstanding impact on Equality, Diversity, and Social Justice.

Yet, if you ask Dr. Khadija what matters most, she won’t list her titles. She’ll speak about the young people she mentors, those who once arrived uncertain and now lead with confidence. She’ll tell you about mothers who have found safety, and communities that finally feel seen.

To Dr. Khadija Coll, justice is a daily practice of courage, compassion, and conviction.

She’s not just fighting for inclusion. She’s building a Scotland where everyone, no matter where they start, has the chance to belong, to lead, and to thrive.