Opening Night: Resonate! Somali Week Festival 2025

Somali Week Festival 2025 opened with a sold-out evening at the British Library, kicking off a vibrant ten-day programme across London. The atmosphere was electric from the moment doors opened as early arrivals filled the hall, bringing the familiar blend of community pride, joyful reunions and eager anticipation for the events to come.

This year’s theme, Resonate! Sounds of the Past, Voices of the Future, came alive through poetry, music and storytelling. Established and emerging artists shared the stage, weaving together reflections on memory, culture and belonging. The night truly set the tone for everything that followed. 

For many, the opening night remains a highlight not just because of the performances, but because it marks the annual moment we gather again as a creative community. 

The conversation brought together filmmaker Warda Mohamed, musicians Aar Maanta and Abdirahman Nasri, with barrister and scholar & social anthropologist Christina Woolner along with broadcaster Hashi Mohamed guiding the discussion. Each speaker offered their own interpretation of how Somali art, identity and heritage continues to evolve.

The evening closed on a high with an uplifting Buraanbur performance by Canab Cuud, beautifully setting the tone for a festival deeply rooted in community pride and rich cultural expression.