Our story

Three decades of
community at heart

For over three decades, SIDA has been providing trusted support, guidance, and opportunities to those who need it most.

1989

Founded — over 35 years serving the community

2009

Merger with Somali women's organisations

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Merger with Somali women's organisations

Our Beginnings

The Somali Integration and Development Association (SIDA) was founded in 1989 in response to the growing needs of the Somali community. What began as a grassroots initiative has grown into a well- established charity delivering essential services to individuals and families facing complex challenges. Over the years, SIDA has evolved to meet changing needs—expanding its services, strengthening partnerships, and deepening its impact.

Key milestone — 2009

A merger with Somali women’s organisations strengthened our ability to support women and families more effectively. Since then, we have continued to grow our reach — ensuring support is inclusive, accessible, and responsive to the real issues people face.

Our Art

Growing with the community

Many of the individuals and families we support face overlapping challenges that require joined-up, compassionate responses.

Many of the individuals and families we support are affected by:

What Drives Us

To improve the quality of life for the community by providing practical support, sharing knowledge, and creating opportunities for individuals to play an active role in society .

Responding to Real Need Our work is shaped by what we see every day

Go for help

A Trusted Community Hub

SIDA has become more than a service provider—it is a trusted space where people feel understood supported, and respected. Sidauk-Non Business For many, we are the first place they turn to when facing difficulty. That trust has been built over years of consistent, reliable support.
Looking Ahead.
While our work is rooted in decades of experience, our focus is firmly on the future. We are committed to:

FEATURES

We are guided by:

We exist to respond to these challenges directly—providing consistent, practical support that helps
people stabilise their situations and move forward

Our goal is not just to support people today—but to help build stronger, more resilient communities for the future.

Want to learn more about how we work or get involved?

Respect for every individual

Equality of access to support

Cultural understanding and sensitivity

A commitment to real, measurable impact

Team

SIDA is led by a dedicated team of staff, trustees, and volunteers who bring a wealth of experience, commitment, and community understanding to everything we do.

Leadership & Staff

 Co-ordinator

Guuleed leads the day-to-day operations of SIDA, ensuring services are delivered effectively and continue to meet the needs of thcommunity. With responsibility for managing programmes, partnerships, and service delivery, he plays a central role in maintaining theo rganisation’s impact and growth.

Core Team

Advisor

Providing front-line advice and support to individuals and families across a wide range of issues.

Female Activities Support

Supporting the delivery of programmes focused on women’s engagement, wellbeing, and empowerment.

Male Activities Support (Sessional Worker)

Delivering activities that engage men in health, wellbeing, and community participation.

Football Coach
(Sessional Worker)

Leading youth and community sports activities that promote physical health, discipline, and teamwork

Our Volunteers

Our work would not be possible without the contribution of our volunteers.

Over the past year:

Volunteers play a vital role in strengthening our services—bringing skills, knowledge, and livedexperience that enhance the support we provide.We also support volunteers in developing their own skills, gaining experience, and progressing intoemployment or further education

Interested in joining our team or volunteering?

Corporate (Governance & Structure)

SIDA is a registered Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), committed to strong governance,transparency, and accountability in everything we do.

Legal Status

We operate under a formal constitution that defines our charitable objectives and ensures allactivities are carried out in line with regulatory requirements

Our Trustees

Our Board of Trustees provides strategic leadership, oversight, and governance. They are responsiblefor ensuring that SIDA operates effectively, remains financially sound, and continues to deliver on itsmission.

Current Trustees:

Nasir Abdi

Chairman

Amal Ahmed Ali

Secretary

Weli Farah

Treasurer

Ibrahim Deria

Trustee

Isir Abdisemed

Trustee

Governance Approach

The trustees are responsible for:

Day-to-day operations are delegated to the Co-ordinator and staff team, ensuring an effectivebalance between governance and operational delivery.

Financial Accountability

SIDA maintains a prudent financial approach to ensure long-term sustainability and continuity of services

Partnership & Collaboration

We work in partnership with a range of organisations across the public and voluntary sectors tostrengthen service delivery and avoid duplication.These collaborations allow us to extend our reach and provide more comprehensive support to thecommunity.

For more information about our work or to partner with us:

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