Mohamed Mohamud is…

A curator, writer, and the founder of Somali Sideways, a platform dedicated to sharing authentic stories of the Somali diaspora. Through this initiative, Mohamed has fostered a global community that celebrates Somali heritage while exploring themes of identity, resilience, and belonging. His work challenges the simplified, one-dimensional narratives about what it means to be Somali, aiming to bridge cultural gaps and foster deeper understanding.

As a freelance writer, Mohamed contributes to reputable outlets such as Africa Confidential and Geeska Platform, a platform offering in-depth analysis of the Horn of Africa. He is an African Union Media Fellow and has committed himself to amplifying African voices globally. His work is also housed in the libraries of Stanford University and SOAS, University of London. Mohamed holds an MSc in Politics of Conflict, Rights, and Justice from SOAS, University of London, and has traveled to over 30 countries, bringing a rich global perspective to his storytelling.

In addition to his writing, Mohamed is the playwright of the upcoming play Between Two Worlds, which tells the story of a young man navigating perilous routes to reach Europe. The script is deeply personal, drawn from the experiences of a family member who undertook the dangerous journey. Through this play, Mohamed explores the theme of migration, emphasising that migrants are human beings. 

I AM Inspired by…

The projects that I undertake with Somali Sideways are a result of an intense desire to reimagine the narrative of Somali identity—both in the Horn of Africa and in its global diaspora. Driving me are the untold stories: the resilience of Somali refugees beginning again in new worlds, the resilience of elders preserving culture through oral tradition, and the courage of young artists blending heritage and contemporary expression.