On the 29th of February 2024, RISE Projects had a day to remember at the opening ceremony of Dahabshiil’s new headquarters in East London. Our founders Awale Elmi and Ahmed Mohammed, were honoured with the prestigious Community Acknowledgement Award. This incredible recognition reflects the significant impact of Awale’s and Ahmed’s commitment to empowering young people and families in Tottenham, creating safe and supportive spaces, and nurturing the skills and resilience of our community.
Dahabshiil’s new space is more than just a corporate office; it feels like a hub for Somali empowerment and community-building. Walking through the doors, we felt the energy of a place dedicated not only to business but to supporting Somali individuals and families here and around the world. The modern, welcoming environment reflects Dahabshiil's forward-thinking approach and their commitment to uplifting communities through economic empowerment and financial inclusion.
The gathering was an invaluable opportunity to network and connect with prominent members of the business community who share our dedication to fostering positive change. We met key figures in finance, business development, and social impact, each with stories of their journey and their ongoing commitment to supporting the Somali diaspora. Engaging in discussions with such influential individuals gave us a deeper understanding of the collective efforts being made to strengthen Somali representation and influence within the UK.
This event was also a chance to celebrate the contributions of those who work tirelessly as advocates for the community. Many attendees were longstanding champions for Somali welfare, supporting projects and initiatives that directly benefit the diaspora. It was inspiring to see such a range of leaders—from those dedicated to financial empowerment to advocates focused on social services and mental health—come together with a shared mission of creating a brighter future for Somali people in the UK.
The Dahabshiil Community Acknowledgment Award proved to be a proud moment for everyone involved with RISE Projects. This recognition allowed us to showcase our work on a larger stage, underlining the extensive support we offer to Tottenham’s Black and Somali communities. Being in the spotlight at this event helps raise awareness among young people seeking guidance, ensuring they know there is a network ready to support them in achieving their goals and overcoming life’s hurdles. For us, the awards are a testament to the positive impact that community-centred initiatives can have on mental health, well-being, and social cohesion.
For over 50 years, Dahabshiil has supported Somali communities globally, contributing to economic empowerment through remittances and other financial services. Their involvement in the awards, along with their wider corporate social responsibility efforts, reinforces Dahabshiil’s commitment to educational and community development. By partnering with organisations like RISE Projects, Dahabshiil not only strengthens its ties with the Somali community but also demonstrates a dedication to social causes that align with its values. This partnership amplifies support for the Tottenham community and helps ensure long-lasting impact.
“Receiving the Community Acknowledgement Award is a tremendous honour. This award shines a light on the hard work we do to provide opportunities and support for the youth and community. I want to extend my gratitude to all my colleagues who make our efforts possible and a huge thanks to Ahmed, who’s done an outstanding job in achieving this recognition for our team,” – Awale Elmi
Awale and Ahmed’s efforts are rooted in serving Tottenham’s Somali and Black communities. Awale, as the founder of RISE Projects and Head of Programmes, leads initiatives focused on youth engagement, from weekly youth clubs where young people can socialise, to Friday night football sessions and one-on-one employability support, including CV writing. His dedication has created safe spaces where young people can thrive and build confidence for the future.
Ahmed, as the co-founder and Head of Community Engagement, focuses on reaching underserved groups within the community. He pioneered the Somali Father’s Network, a safe environment for Somali fathers to find emotional support and share their experiences. Ahmed’s work bridges gaps between community members and essential services, and he collaborates closely with Haringey Council and other local partners to strengthen the support network available to Tottenham’s Somali and Black communities.
Together, with colleagues, Awale and Ahmed exemplify RISE Projects’ mission to uplift and empower. Their work continues to inspire and foster a community where individuals can build meaningful relationships, access necessary resources, and create pathways to a brighter future.