This launch event for Somali Week Festival 2021 is an evening of conversation, poetry and music.

The sole British Booker Prize shortlisted author Nadifa Mohamed whose latest book, The Fortune Men, is based on the true story of Mahmood Mattan’s wrongful execution in Wales in the 1950’s, joins us for a discussion on the history of Somalis in the UK, especially in Wales and the larger implications of Mahmood’s story. This opens a larger panel conversation, hosted by Dr. Fatumo Addi, on the history of Somalis in the UK. There will also be poetry performances with published poets Farah Gabdon, Sagal Farah and Ibrahim Hersi and singing sensation Hodan Omar Dhuule will be soundtrack the evening with live music.

As part of the UK’s Black History Month, Kayd Somali Arts and Culture proudly presents the 13th annual Somali Week Festival to be held over a period of six days from the 26th – 31st October 2021. The theme of this year is Inspire: inspired by the past, inspiring the future which envisages a post Covid-19 world inspired by music, literature and legends of our community. Kayd is immensely excited and proud to present this festival as we begin to emerge from the pandemic to share Somali arts, literature and culture as a community and the wider society. We will celebrate our living legends, pay homage to those no longer with us and look forward towards the future of Somali studies, culture and arts.

Kayd Somali Arts and Culture coordinate regular artistic and cultural events in the UK including Somali Week Festival. It aims to contribute to the appreciation of the Somali culture and its diversity through art, literature, poetry, music, theatre and debates and discussions.

In partnership with Kayd Somali Arts and Culture.

This event will not be live-streamed.

Book your tickets here 

Header Image: Poet Farah Gabdon via Facebook