Physical address:
1 Calliope Street, Guildford NSW 2161
About
About Somali Council of NSW
Supporting collaboration, strengthening organisations, and creating opportunities for Somali communities across New South Wales.
The Somali Council of NSW is a not-for-profit peak umbrella body representing Somali community organisations across New South Wales. We work alongside grassroots organisations to strengthen collaboration, advocate for community priorities, support community-led initiatives, and create opportunities that benefit Somali communities across the state.
Who We Are
The Somali Council of NSW is a not-for-profit organisation established for public benefit and the peak umbrella body representing Somali community organisations across New South Wales.
We work alongside grassroots organisations, community leaders, and partners to strengthen collaboration, support community-led initiatives, and advocate for the needs and aspirations of Somali communities across the state.
Our role is to connect organisations, create opportunities for partnership, strengthen community capacity, improve access to resources and funding opportunities, and promote positive outcomes for Somali families and future generations.
Our Core Identity
Mission & Vision
Our Mission: The Somali Council of NSW exists to represent and amplify the voice of the Somali community, strengthen community connections, and create pathways for every person and family to thrive. We connect our community to existing opportunities and services while championing and developing new programs, initiatives, and partnerships to address unmet needs and remove barriers to inclusion. Through education, cultural pride, leadership, advocacy, and collaboration, we work to build a stronger, more connected, and empowered community for current and future generations.
Our Vision: A thriving, united, and empowered Somali community across New South Wales where every individual and family has equitable access to opportunities, services, and support. We envision a future where strong community organisations, effective partnerships, and inclusive leadership enable people of all ages to preserve their cultural identity, participate fully in society, achieve their aspirations, and contribute confidently to a prosperous and connected future for generations to come.
Our Purpose
The Somali Council of NSW exists to strengthen collaboration across Somali community organisations and create opportunities that support stronger, more connected, and resilient communities throughout New South Wales.
We work to:
- Support participation, inclusion, and belonging within Australian society
- Advocate for improved outcomes and opportunities for Somali communities
- Promote education, employment pathways, and skills development
- Support health, wellbeing, and community resilience initiatives
- Preserve Somali language, culture, heritage, and identity
- Strengthen collaboration and partnership across community organisations
- Increase visibility, capacity, and opportunities for Somali-led organisations
- Identify community priorities and advocate for effective solutions
- Facilitate collaboration between community organisations, government, and service providers
Our Objectives
- Strengthen collaboration and representation across Somali community organisations
- Support community-led initiatives and develop future community leaders
- Preserve Somali culture, language, heritage, and identity
- Promote the wellbeing, inclusion, and participation of Somali families and communities
- Advocate for equitable access to services, opportunities, and resources
- Build organisational capacity, partnerships, and community leadership
Meet The Board Executives
The Somali Council of NSW is guided by a dedicated leadership team committed to strengthening collaboration, supporting community-led initiatives, and advancing positive outcomes for Somali communities across New South Wales. Our committee brings together experience, community insight, and a shared commitment to partnership, advocacy, and community development.
Gaal Gaal
Executive Board Director – Partnerships & Advocacy
Gaal Gaal is a dedicated Somali-Australian community leader committed to fostering stronger connections within the community and building meaningful partnerships across New South Wales.
As a Board Executive of the Somali Council of NSW Ltd with responsibility for Community Engagement, he works to strengthen relationships with community members, partner organisations, and stakeholders, promoting collaboration, inclusion, and active participation. He is passionate about creating opportunities that empower individuals, strengthen community cohesion, and support positive outcomes for current and future generations.
Abdullahi Halane
Executive Board Director – Community Engagement
Abdullahi Halane is a dedicated Somali-Australian community leader committed to strengthening the wellbeing, inclusion, and aspirations of multicultural communities across New South Wales.
Through his leadership and community service, he has contributed to initiatives that promote youth development, education, community engagement, and social cohesion. Passionate about collaboration and community empowerment, Abdullahi works to build partnerships that create lasting opportunities for individuals, families, and future generations.
Asma Said Ahmed
Executive Board Director – Youth & Child Safety
Asma Said Ahmed is a dedicated young Somali-Australian community leader and advocate committed to strengthening the wellbeing and participation of multicultural communities in New South Wales.
She has contributed to a range of community initiatives focused on youth, women, education, cultural preservation, and social cohesion. Passionate about collaboration and community empowerment, Asma works to build stronger partnerships and create opportunities that support inclusive and thriving communities.
Hawo Suleiman
Executive Board Director – Women, Culture & Family Programs
Hawo Suleiman is a passionate Somali-Australian arts and cultural advocate dedicated to preserving and celebrating Somali heritage through community engagement and creative expression.
As the Arts and Culture Lead on the Board of the Somali Council of NSW Ltd, she provides leadership in developing cultural initiatives that promote identity, strengthen community connections, and showcase the richness of Somali traditions through art, storytelling, music, and cultural events.
Agey Abdikarin
Executive Board Director – Company Treasury
Agey Abdikarin is a respected Australian-Somali community leader and business professional with a longstanding commitment to strengthening multicultural communities across New South Wales.
He has served in executive and board leadership roles within some of Australia’s largest and longest-standing African and Somali community organisations. Through collaboration with government, industry, and community partners, Agey is passionate about advancing community development, youth empowerment, education, settlement, and social cohesion to build stronger, more inclusive communities.
Hani Abdile
Executive Board Director – Company Security
Hani Abdile is an award-winning Somali-Australian writer, poet, and community advocate whose work champions human rights, cultural identity, and the voices of refugees and multicultural communities.
Drawing on her lived experience, Hani has become a respected leader in Australia’s arts and community sectors, using storytelling to inspire inclusion, resilience, and social cohesion. She continues to contribute to community initiatives and cultural engagement, empowering diverse communities through advocacy, education, and the arts.
Our Values
Community Unity
We bring organisations, community leaders, and individuals together to strengthen collective impact and shared community outcomes.
Collaboration
We work alongside member organisations, partners, and stakeholders to achieve shared goals through consultation and partnership.
Inclusion
We promote participation, representation, and opportunities for all members of the community.
Empowerment
We support individuals, families, and organisations to build capacity, leadership, and long-term success.
Advocacy
We advocate for equitable access to services, opportunities, and resources that benefit Somali communities.
Cultural Preservation
We celebrate and preserve Somali language, culture, heritage, and identity for future generations.
TOGETHER, WE ARE STRENGTHENING COMMUNITIES, SUPPORTING ORGANISATIONS, AND CREATING OPPORTUNITIES ACROSS NEW SOUTH WALES.
Join us in strengthening collaboration, supporting community-led initiatives, and creating positive outcomes for Somali communities across New South Wales.
GET INVOLVED