About Kayd Somali Arts & Culture

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About Kayd Somali Arts & Culture *

Welcome to Kayd Somali Arts and Culture—an organization founded in 2009 by Ayan Mahamoud MBE in Tower Hamlets, London. Our name, Kayd, means “preservation” in Somali, a fitting reflection of our dedication to safeguarding, celebrating, and elevating Somali arts, culture, and heritage. Our work spans a broad spectrum of cultural, educational, and artistic activities, all designed to nurture creativity, foster understanding, and bring people together.

Our Story

Kayd’s roots reach back to the late 1980s, when artistic initiatives at Oxford House in Bethnal Green offered new Somali immigrants and refugees a crucial space to express themselves. These early programs gave rise to poetry recitals, theatrical performances, and music events that helped the Somali community forge meaningful connections, adapt to new surroundings, and share the richness of their culture with neighbours.

When the major arts and educational grants funding these initiatives concluded in 2008, the future of Somali arts programming in the area stood at a crossroads. Refusing to let this vital resource fade, a group of passionate leaders and community members rallied together. Their commitment to continuing and expanding these programs led to the founding of Kayd in 2009. From these beginnings, Kayd has grown into a leading organization championing Somali creativity and culture in the UK and beyond.

  • We safeguard and celebrate Somali arts, culture, and heritage by archiving oral histories, showcasing traditional performances, and ensuring these shared stories remain a vibrant, valuable cultural treasure for future generations.

  • By offering inclusive platforms for Somali voices in music, literature, and dialogue, we challenge misconceptions, spark conversations, and empower community members to take pride in their rich, diverse narratives.

  • Through festivals, workshops, and cultural events, we bridge communities, nurture empathy, and foster a sense of shared belonging, creating an environment where Somali culture thrives alongside broader societal appreciation.

Our Misson

Our guiding mission is simple yet profound: to preserve, promote, and share Somali arts, culture, and heritage with the public. We believe that the arts have the power to build bridges, challenge misconceptions, and inspire dialogue across cultures.

  • Preservation of Heritage: We are dedicated to ensuring Somali cultural traditions and historical narratives are safeguarded for future generations.

  • Celebration of Identity: By showcasing both traditional and modern Somali art forms, we highlight the diversity and dynamism of Somali culture.

  • Promotion of Social Cohesion: Through cultural exchanges, performances, and educational events, we aim to bring communities together, fostering mutual understanding and respect.

Ultimately, we envision a world where Somali arts and culture is recognised, appreciated, and included in the broader tapestry of global heritage.

Through every project we undertake, we strive to challenge stereotypes, encourage dialogue, and cultivate deeper understanding between Somali and non-Somali communities.

Nurturing Emerging Artists

We will support new Somali artists through training, mentorship, and performance opportunities.

Building Bridges Across Communities

We believe the arts can connect people. By promoting respectful cultural exchanges, we strive for a more inclusive society.

Expanding Our Reach

We aim to grow our presence in London and across the UK, especially in northern cities with thriving Somali communities.

Preserving Cultural Legacy

We will work with historians and cultural experts to protect Somali artistic traditions.

Our Commitment

Kayd is dedicated to advancing cultural understanding and uplifting Somali voices wherever our programs reach.

Join Us

We invite you to become part of our growing community—whether as an artist, volunteer, audience member, donor, or supporter.

At Kayd, your passion for art, culture, and social engagement can make a lasting impact.

Together, we can:

  • Honour the Past: Celebrate the achievements of past generations while preserving their legacies.

  • Enrich the Present: Offer meaningful, transformative experiences through vibrant festivals, workshops, and performances.

  • Shape the Future: Inspire new voices and promote the ongoing evolution of Somali arts and culture.

We warmly welcome you to join us in our quest to illuminate and preserve the vast tapestry of Somali heritage.

Through collaboration and shared creativity, we will keep Somali arts and culture alive, dynamic, and resonant for generations to come.