Monday, November 24, 2014
Press Release
Bristol, England - Global Somali Diaspora (GSD) launched its local chapter in Bristol. Representatives from Somali community in the South West of England, UK, welcomed the executive director in recognition of the Global Somali Diaspora (GSD) organisation.
GSD is a thriving organization that aims to promote, advance, and empower the Somali communities in the Diaspora and provide an effective advocacy for all issues pertinent to the Somali Communities in the Diaspora all over the world. It has chapter leaders, representatives and members in more than 20 countries.
Taha Daud, a community activist moderated the event that was held in Future Inn Hotel in central Bristol and was participated by delegates from Bristol neighborhoods and guest speakers from London. Among the guest-speakers were Former BBC-Somali Director Yusuf Garaad Omar Ahmed and Former Somali Ambassador in UAE Mohamed Abuker Yarow. Others representing for different sections of the community were also given a platform. Speakers and participants underlined the need for Somali Diaspora community to realize its potential and to work together for a common good. They all called the Somali communities in the UK and abroad to preserve the connectivity and cultural values of Somali people around the world.
Mohamed Abuker Yarow, former Somali Ambassador to the UAE, who was representing the elders of the Community in the South-West of England noted “The cooperation of Somali community all over the world is necessary to protect our interests and vulnerable members of our community”.
All speakers echoed the Ambassador and stressed that creativity and unity are core fundamental principles of success and self-dignity in the Diaspora communities.
Yusuf Garad discussed the impact the Somali Diaspora can have in Somalia. Somali Diasporas from the Europe, North America, Middle-East and Southwest Asia have and still are contributing to the socio-economic activities in the country. Nearly 70 000 Diaspora arrived the country in 2012 alone. Despite their contribution there are growing concerns that needs to be dealt with, such as the relationship between Somalis at home and those who are coming from the rest of the world. Finally, Yusuf emphasized how the coordinated role of Diaspora can unlock Somali potentials.
The event was concluded by Executive Director of GSD Abdi Barud and Shama Wardere from GSD’s management team. “GSD is dedicated to Diaspora communities and their contributions to wellbeing of Somali people. It is intended to create awareness, enable collaboration, and enhance learning among those working on behalf of and with Diaspora communities". said Abdi Barud, Executive Director of the Global Somali Diaspora.
This event was well attended and participated by Bristol Somali Community and GSD’s Bristol chapter has been successfully launched.
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For all other enquiries and questions please contact [email protected] or visit our website www.gsd.so