Somalinimo 2026: One Community. Countless Stories. Endless Future.
What does it mean to be Somali in Britain today? Somalinimo 2026 is bringing together an exciting celebration of Somali identity, creativity, dialogue and public visibility from 26 June to 4 July 2026. Highlighting how the community is moving forward, while platforming cultural heritage, the festival is showcasing what it truly means to be Somali in Britain today.
Events are taking place across Birmingham – one city, eight days – with audiences joining globally online. Rooted in community pride and collaboration, the week is led by Somalinimo UK alongside cultural organisations, civic institutions and community partners.
If we don’t share our stories and achievements, who will?
“The essence of Somalinimo [Somaliness] is deeply personal to me as someone who grew up in the west and had to balance two identities. Our heritage is rich, layered and beautiful, yet our stories have for too long been defined by others.” Ayan Aden, founder and executive director of Somalinimo UK and Birmingham’s current Poet Laureate.
Guests will include His Excellency Mr Abdulkadir Hashi - Somali Ambassador to the UK, West Midlands Lord-Lieutenant Derrick Anderson CBE, Monder Ram OBE - WM Deputy Lieutenant, West Midlands Police & Crime Commissioner Simon Foster, other key figures and national organisations including Global Somali Diaspora.
The incredible eight-day multi-venue programme has something different every day. Showcasing theatre, poetry, dance, business events and academic discussions exploring Somali identity, heritage and the diaspora experience. Highlights include:
Between 2 Worlds: Riwaayad Edition by Sideways Stories and We Are One. Theatre looking at identity, migration and belonging through a Somali British lens
Business & Careers Expo connecting young people with industry leaders and mentorship opportunities
A Somali Diaspora roundtable at the Library of Birmingham, which will also be illuminated in the blue and white colours of the Somali flag
Creative open mic night with Hayati Open Mic and Empower Poetry; topical debate: Who Owns Soomaaliya; and the closing celebration event - Somalinimo Xaflad
Somalinimo UK created one of Europe’s largest Somali Independence Day celebrations in 2025, with over 800 attendees, and reaching millions online. It has since grown into one of the UK’s most ambitious, exciting platforms for Somali culture and visibility. This year promises to be even bigger – with attendees confirmed from Canada, the US, the Middle-East, all across Europe and as far as Australia.
“This is about reclaiming our narrative, celebrating our culture and creating space for future generations to feel seen, empowered and connected. We sit at the main tables, we are movers and shakers - the world needs to look beyond the stereotypes and see what it really means to be Somali in Britain today,” Ayan Aden.
Ayan’s work is rooted in heritage and driven by vision. Winning her first national poetry award at the age of 12, now 26 years old, she has gone on to become a strategist and cultural ambassador – bridging generations, connecting community, creativity and legacy.
Ayan added:
“Somalinimo 2026 has only been possible because of an exceptional team of young Somali heritage creatives and professionals working across culture, business, technology and media. Their vision and commitment have shaped every part of this programme. We invite people of all backgrounds to join us, celebrate with us and be part of these inspiring events.”
Click here to join the events & book tickets.
Socials:
@SomalinimoUK on TikTok and Instagram
About Somalinimo UK
Founded in 2025 by Ayan Aden, Somalinimo UK builds cultural platforms celebrating Somali heritage, creativity and community. Somalinimo 2026 partners include Global Somali Diaspora (GSD), the Embassy of Somalia (UK), and Birmingham City Council. West Midlands Combined Authority, Legacy Centre of Excellence, Empower Poetry, Sideways Stories, We Are One and more.