Somali Youth Forum
There are currently around 20,000 Somalis living in and around the Bristol region and specifically in the areas of St Pauls, Easton and Barton Hill which have seen a major rise in Somali numbers. These migrants have come from as far as Africa but also from European countries such as The Netherlands and Sweden.
This rapid growth in the Somali population has led to concerns regarding the Somali youth and related issues. Statistically, they are among the poorest academic achievers in both schools and colleges and many of them have turned to crime. BBC journalist Mr Rageh Omer has described the Somali youth in Bristol as lost.
Who are we ?
The Somali Youth Forum emerged in 2005 out of a need to engage teenagers in meaningful social activities. We encouraged young people to acquire new skills and to better understand their true potential. Furthermore, we strive to offer support in overcoming any of the disadvantage that they may face in today’s world.
What do we do?
- We asked the young people what they wanted; as a result we now run:
- * A mentoring group for both sexes.
- * A young women’s youth club.
- * Literacy and Numeracy groups.
- * Career advice sessions.
- * A number of football teams two of which hold league status.
In the long term, we hope that these activities will engage the wider Bristol community and enhance community cohesion. This initiative, though in its early stage may go some way towards addressing key social issues and give birth to the emergence of positive proactive role models for those that follow.
Partners
