The 17th Somali Week Festival launched with an electrifying evening at the Pigott Theatre in the British Library, embracing the theme ‘Resonate! Sounds of the Past, Voices of the Future.’ This opening event set the tone for a week of cultural celebration, bringing together the Somali diaspora and beyond for an unforgettable night of conversation, poetry, and traditional dance.
The event, led by the dynamic Hashi Mohamed—barrister, broadcaster, and author of People Like Us—featured a lively discussion on the transformative power of Somali music, poetry, and oral storytelling. The stellar lineup included British-Somali filmmaker Warda Mohamed, whose award-winning short film Muna has captivated audiences with its fresh take on diaspora and belonging.
Joining her was Abdirahman Nasri, a singer and composer blending Somali musical heritage with global influences, and Aar Maanta, a Somali-British singer-songwriter celebrated for his unique Afro-hop sound and role as a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador. Dr. Christina Woolner, Artistic Director of Kayd and a renowned social anthropologist, added depth with her insights into the socio-political impact of Somali arts.
The evening culminated in a mesmerizing poetry reading and vibrant Somali traditional dance, leaving attendees inspired by the living archive of Somali artistry. This launch was not just a conversation but a powerful intersection of performance and reflection, celebrating how Somali culture continues to shape the present and inspire the future.
The Somali Week Festival, organized by Kayd Somali Arts and Culture, invites everyone to join in celebrating the richness of Somali heritage. Hosted at the British Library, a charity dedicated to opening up knowledge and inspiration, the festival encourages donations to support its mission.
Follow the festival’s journey at @SomaliWeekFest and #KaydSomaliArts for more updates on this vibrant celebration of culture!