About Us — Somali Youth Resilience (SYR)

Our Mission

Building Resilient, Empowered Youth Communities

Somali Youth Resilience (SYR) was founded with one core belief: that every young Somali person — whether growing up in Oslo, Mogadishu, or Jigjiga — deserves access to safe spaces, positive role models, and opportunities to thrive.

We work across borders to bridge the gap between the Somali diaspora and communities in East Africa. Our programmes are grounded in the realities young people face: exposure to crime, substance abuse, limited opportunities, and the challenge of navigating two cultures at once.

We are politically independent and youth-centred. Everything we do is shaped by the voices and participation of the young people we serve.

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Our Values

What We Stand For

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Fair Play

On and off the pitch, we teach that fairness, honesty, and respect are not optional — they are the foundation of community.

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Participation

We take youth participation seriously. Young people are not just beneficiaries of our work — they are its authors and leaders.

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Independence

SYR is politically independent. We are guided solely by what is best for the youth and communities we serve.

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Resilience

We believe in the strength and potential of Somali youth — and we build programmes that unlock and amplify that strength.

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Inclusion

Every young person matters. We promote equality and inclusion across gender, background, and geography.

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Community

We build bonds — between youth and their families, between diaspora and homeland, between individuals and their future.

Our Journey

How SYR Came to Be

From an idea born in Oslo to boots on the ground in Mogadishu — here is our story so far.

2025 — Oslo, Norway

SYR Is Founded

Somali Youth Resilience is established in Oslo as a politically independent organisation, bringing together professionals from the Norwegian–Somali community committed to meaningful, youth-centred work.

December 2025 — Mogadishu, Somalia

Official Launch in Mogadishu

The official launch of SYR takes place in Mogadishu, in partnership with the Mamo Ugaaso Foundation and with the support of Port Director Ali Amerika. A historic milestone marking SYR's first presence in Somalia.

January 2026 — Central Mogadishu

Street Team Pilot Launched

SYR and the Mamo Ugaaso Foundation carry out the first Street Team outreach pilot in central Mogadishu, reaching youth at risk of violence, crime, and substance abuse with direct support and food distribution.

January 2026 — Lido Beach, Mogadishu

First Structured Youth Activity Day

An activity day at Lido Beach brings together young people for football, swimming, and community building — demonstrating SYR's commitment to joyful, safe, and structured spaces for Somali youth.

Ongoing — Jigjiga, Ethiopia

Fair Play & Life-Skills Seminars

SYR delivers ongoing Fair Play and life-skills seminars in Jigjiga, Ethiopia, using football to teach respect, non-violence, leadership, and positive communication to youth in the Somali region.

Collaboration

Our Key Partners

SYR's work is made possible through strong partnerships with organisations and individuals who share our values.

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Mamo Ugaaso Foundation

Our primary partner in Mogadishu. Together we deliver the Street Team outreach project, the Lido Beach activity day, and the official launch of SYR in Somalia. They provide a youth centre and operational support on the ground.

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Port Director Ali Amerika

Provided critical support and recognition for the official launch of Somali Youth Resilience in Mogadishu in December 2025. SYR expresses sincere gratitude for this contribution.

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OBOS (Football Programme)

OBOS jerseys are worn by youth participants in our football activities in Mogadishu, reflecting our connection to Norwegian football culture and values of Fair Play.

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Become a Partner

We are actively looking for organisations, foundations, and businesses who want to invest in Somali youth — in Norway, Somalia, and beyond. Get in touch to explore how we can work together.

About Somali Youth Resilience