Hiiraan Online
Sunday, March 27, 2016
LONDON (HOL) – For many Somalis around the world, lack of opportunities and recognitions for their inspiring talents in their host countries and beyond were major challenges that frustrated many Somalis who complained that lack of public diversity and considerations were obscuring what would otherwise have been their visible talents.
Having struggled to gain public acknowledgments in vain in decades, the latter had forced them to take matters into their hands, by founding a new international initiative: The International Somali Awards, an event which would honour the greatest achievements of the Somali talents around the world.
Launched last year, founders of The International Somali Awards (ISA) say that it aims to pay tribute to inspiring Somali success stories from all walks of life by recognising inspirational role models from the fields of business, social work, sports, education and entertainment.
This week, ISA organized its first event with the attendance of many Somali entrepreneurs, journalists, business owners, members of the UK Parliament and many foreign guests in the celebration of Somali talents who were honoured with prestigious awards that recognized their contributions to the communities.
Delivering the awards opening speech, the Somali barrister as well broadcaster Hashi delivered a message from the UK Prime Minister David Cameron who congratulated all winners for their achievements before the awards were presented to the respective winners.
''Despite the hardships and challenges they have faced, many Somalis, both within Somalia and across the worldwide diaspora have achieved incredible success in fields as varied as business, academia and sport,” Mr. Cameron said in his written message which was read out at the event.
“So to each winner I say this: It is your hard work, creativity, courage and leadership that has brought you here; many congratulations for all you have achieved.” He added.
SPORTS AWARDS
The first award was presented to the international British-Somali Olympic Gold medallist and CBE owner Mo Farah who was recognized as the Sports Person of the Year, with the second awards went to two young footballer nominees Muktar Ali who was recently signed by the premier league team Chelsea football club and Abdi Jama, the captain of the Great Britain Wheelchair Basketball Team.
ENTERTAINMENT AWARD
The best Entertainment Award went to Director and filmmaker Mo Ali whose works were featured in the films Shank and Motana.
The event also recognized Amin Amir Arts, a visual artist for his cartoons satirise Somali politics with a comedic touch. Besides his own creations, Amin also works as a mentor for other cartoonists and painters and plans to start a programme for aspiring young artists to enable them to illustrate their emotions and ideas.
The third award goes to Maryan Mursal, a living legend, Maryam’s iconic voice and stature have been shining since the 1960s and she’s still going strong today. She has travelled the world and even though her music was wrongfully censured, her ability to fight the establishment gave her the inspiration to begin a new life as the first female taxi driver in Mogadishu. She has taught us how to overcome adversity and to follow your heart.
EDUCATION AWARD
The award of the Highest Education Achiever was received by Hawa Jama Abdi, a recent graduate of the Somaliland Brail centre who has one of the highest grades on record.
The event also recognized Munira Khalif, who has achieved academic excellence that has inspired others throughout the globe. Ms. Khalif also served as an advocate and teen advisor to the United Nations’ Foundation Campaign, ‘Girl Up’ which encourages American girls to support their peers in developing countries to be the next generation of leaders.
The third nominee was also recognized Jama Nuur ho has succeeded academically against all odds, thanks to his drive and determination.
BUSINESS AWARD
The Business of the Year award was awarded to the innovative Dahabshiil, an international money transfer company which was recognized as the most effective Initiative of the year by Adeso, an international charity for pioneering cash transfers meant for tackling humanitarian crisis.
Having held its first even, the new initiative which already hit waves around the world is seen as a significant innovation which could further help in identifying a pool of new Somali talents who would otherwise remain invisible to the public eyes for many years to come.