Today, the Tiyya Foundation remains a family-operated organization, led by Meymuna Hussein Cattan and her husband, Shukry Cattan. Together, they carry forward the organization's founding legacy while shaping its next chapter, expanding opportunities for refugee and immigrant families through economic advancement, family services, and community engagement. Rooted in their own families’ experiences of migration, their leadership reflects a continued commitment to cultural preservation, meaningful connection, and building stronger communities for future generations.

Flavors From Afar begins a new chapter, expanding beyond its roots in Little Ethiopia to become a Pan-African Bistro and Wine Bar located at 5652 Hollywood Boulevard in East Hollywood.

Celebrating the rich culinary traditions of Africa and its diaspora, the restaurant brings people together through food, wine, and cultural storytelling.

Beyond dining, Flavors From Afar serves as a community gathering space and home for Tiyya Foundation programming. Through hospitality training, workforce development, and hands-on career opportunities, the restaurant supports Tiyya’s broader mission of creating pathways toward economic independence for refugees, immigrants, and their families.

Owliya Dima and her daughter, Meymuna Hussein-Cattan, resettle in Southern California as refugees.

Owliya and her family navigate the challenges of resettlement. Her experience inspires her to help fellow refugees navigate these complex systems.

Owliya dedicated her time and heart to helping newly arrived refugee and immigrant families navigate the challenges of resettlement, offering guidance, compassion, and a sense of belonging as they began rebuilding their lives.

The Tiyya Foundation was established in 2010 with a mission to welcome and support refugee and immigrant families as they rebuild their lives and find belonging in their new communities.

As her parents retired, Meymuna Hussein Cattan stepped into the role of Executive Director, ushering in a new chapter for the Tiyya Foundation. Under her leadership, Tiyya expanded its work beyond meeting immediate needs to creating pathways toward economic independence and lasting stability. Serving an average of 250 families annually, the organization connects refugee and immigrant communities with essential resources, educational opportunities, workforce development, and career placement.

At the onset of the global pandemic, the Tiyya Foundation opened Flavors From Afar in Los Angeles’ Little Ethiopia neighborhood, creating a social enterprise that celebrates cultural heritage through food while providing economic opportunities for refugee and immigrant chefs.

In response to the pandemic, the Tiyya Foundation reimagined its community engagement programs to foster cultural connection, belonging, and shared identity. These initiatives create spaces for first and second generation immigrants to celebrate their heritage, build meaningful relationships, and embrace the experience of navigating multiple cultures.