The International Relief Foundation (IRF) operates in Somalia to empower minority and marginalised communities through education, livelihoods, governance, and youth development initiatives.
The Somalia Marginalised and Minority Fellowship Program (February 2024 – February 2025), led by Minority Rights Group (MRG) in partnership with the International Relief Foundation, has become a life-changing initiative for young people from marginalised and minority backgrounds. The program has transformed the lives of many young people in Somalia, particularly those from minority and marginalised communities who often face systemic barriers to education, employment, and social inclusion.
Among the inspiring success stories are Safia Mohamed Jeylani, Feisal Abey Munye, and Hani Aweis Abu, three talented youth from Brava, also known as Baraawe, who had long faced the struggles of social exclusion and limited opportunities due to their minority status. Before joining the program, they were jobless, discouraged, and uncertain about their futures. The fellowship provided them not only with skills and work placements but also with dignity, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Fellowship Placements
Through the program, these young fellows secured impactful placements that helped them gain professional experience and leadership skills:
- Safia: Placed with the Ministry of Interior of the Federal Government of Somalia, where she developed hands-on governance skills and broadened her understanding of public service.
- Feisal: Worked with the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA), contributing to essential government services while strengthening his technical expertise and career confidence.
- Hani: Served with the Ministry of Youth of South West State, actively engaging in youth-focused initiatives and sharpening her leadership potential.
Impact of the Fellowship
The fellowship was more than just a work placement; it became a lifeline of hope. For Safia, Feisal, and Hani, the experience demonstrated that young people from marginalised communities can make meaningful contributions to Somalia’s development. They gained professional exposure, resilience, and the motivation to break cycles of exclusion. While challenges related to minority identity remain, the fellowship equipped them with the skills and determination to move forward. Today, two of the three fellows have secured sustainable employment, demonstrating how such programs can bring about lasting change.
“This fellowship lit a spark of hope during one of the most difficult times in our lives.” — Safia, Fellow
Gratitude and Future Wishes
The fellows express heartfelt gratitude to Hamza Mohammed, Chief Executive Officer of the International Relief Foundation, and to the Minority Rights Group, for launching such a meaningful initiative. They describe the fellowship as a “golden opportunity” that lit a spark of hope during one of the most difficult times in their lives. Looking forward, they hope many more young people from marginalised backgrounds will have access to similar programs—ones that empower, uplift, and remind them that their voices and potential matter.
Where Are They Now?
- Safia has joined Loop, an organisation focused on community feedback mechanisms.
- Faysal has continued at NIRA, where he has been promoted to supervisor, a remarkable achievement and a testament to his growth.
- Hani continues her advocacy for youth empowerment.
Lasting Impact
The Somalia Marginalised and Minority Fellowship Program stands as a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration, compassion, and commitment to equality. By empowering minorities and marginalised communities, the program fosters leadership that strengthens Somalia’s social fabric and paves the way for a more equitable future.
This success story is a powerful reminder that when people from all backgrounds are given equal opportunities, they can become the driving force for sustainable development and peace in Somalia.
