Pious Ali immigrated from Ghana to New York in 2000 in hopes of purchasing photography equipment for his flourishing photography career back home. Like many other Muslims, the events that took place on September 11th, 2001 changed the course of his life — as he realized he was in his moment to pursue a version of his American dream. Pious moved to Maine in 2002, got involved at the grassroots to earn himself a spot on the Portland Public Schools Board, then City Council — where he was just elected for his second term.

Listen to Pious’s journey and follow Pious on Instagram

pic credit: Ryan Caron King for NENC

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