London Hosts the 5th British-Somali Global Graduation Ceremony 2025

London, UK – 26th October 2025. London once again hosted a remarkable evening that brought together politicians from across parties, university students, and Somali professionals from all corners of the United Kingdom.

The 5th British-Somali Global Graduation Ceremony 2025 took place in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, with His Excellency Abdulkadir Hashi, Somali Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Joe Powell MP, Member of Parliament for Kensington and Bayswater, Minister at the Department of Justice and Parliamentary Private Secretary (PPS) to the UK Deputy Prime Minister, and Councillor Tom Bennett, Mayor of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, Councillor Kasim Ali, Leader of the Kensington and Chelsea Labour Group of Councillors, Councillor James Small-Edwards, Greater London Assembly Member and Chair of Planning and Regeneration among the distinguished guests in attendance.

The ceremony celebrated the academic achievements of British-Somali graduates from leading UK universities. Graduates received awards sponsored by Hormuud Telecom, a leading Somali telecommunications company recognised for its long-standing support for education and community development across Somalia and within the diaspora.

It was an exceptional and memorable evening — filled with joy, pride, and inspiration. The atmosphere was electric as every award winner was celebrated with heartfelt applause from the audience.

Several graduates shared their personal stories, speaking about the challenges they overcame, the sacrifices they made, and the unwavering support of their families and loved ones. Others reflected on moments of loneliness and long, sleepless nights that made their success all the more meaningful.

The event’s master of ceremonies, Mohamed Said Asahaaf, a veteran journalist renowned for his engaging style, kept the audience entertained throughout the evening. He ensured that each graduate’s journey was recognised and that every winner felt the importance of their moment — turning the night into one of true celebration, unity, and encouragement.

The UK Government Minister, who has hosted the ceremony in his constituency for the fifth consecutive year, presented Hormuud Telecom with a Special Award for Educational Support and Philanthropy, recognising the company’s continued efforts to strengthen educational and cultural ties between the UK and Somalia.

One of the highlights of the evening came when award winners were invited to share how they felt upon receiving their recognition. Many expressed heartfelt gratitude and a renewed sense of responsibility, promising to give back to the community. They described their achievements not only as personal milestones but also as investments from Hormuud Telecom and the wider community in their shared future — pledging to inspire and support the next generation.

In his address, Ambassador Abdulkadir Hashi congratulated Hormuud Telecom on receiving the honour, describing it as “a step towards building a stronger relationship between our two countries.” He also reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing cooperation between Somalia and the United Kingdom in areas of education, innovation, and institutional development.

Guests were also treated to a lavish dinner, featuring a range of starters, main courses, desserts, and refreshments. Many attendees described the evening as “the one night to look forward to throughout the year,” celebrating not only academic excellence but also unity, pride, and community spirit.

Councillor James Small-Edwards, Greater London Assembly Member and Chair of Planning and Regeneration, praised Hormuud Telecom for its sustained commitment to youth empowerment and education within the British-Somali community, adding that he “cannot wait for next year’s event.”

Attendees also heard from Mr. Abdirashid Ali Ainanshe, Chief Communications Officer at Hormuud Telecom, who spoke passionately about the importance of education and the pivotal role the next generation of British-Somali graduates will play in strengthening relations between Somalia and the United Kingdom. He emphasised that the partnership between the two countries “will be stronger than ever.”

Councillor Kasim Ali, Leader of the Kensington and Chelsea Labour Group of Councillors and the only British-Somali political leader of a major UK party ahead of next year’s local elections, commended Hormuud Telecom for its consistent support since 2019, stating that the company “truly deserves this honour.”

The audience also heard from Mr. Abdalla Ahmed Ali, Chief Finance Officer of Hormuud Telecom, a strong supporter of the company’s educational and innovation initiatives. He reaffirmed Hormuud Telecom’s commitment to supporting programmes like this, stating that the company feels “honoured to be part of such an inspiring celebration and to continue investing in education for a better future.”

Councillor Kasim Ali also accepted Hormuud Telecom’s invitation for British-Somali political leaders in the UK to visit Somalia, share their expertise with local and national institutions, and contribute to institution building and sustainable business growth for the prosperity of Somali communities.

The event was organised by British-Somali Global Graduates, in collaboration with the Baraka Community Association, an educational charity based in Kensington and Chelsea that continues to champion education, youth empowerment, and leadership development among Somali communities in the UK.