At a glance
"Somali Night: Celebrating Culture and Building Community" is an event designed to showcase Somali culture, foster community… Read full summary
- Funding received
- 2023-2024
- Small
- Awarded
- $5,000
- Funding partners
-
- Services and Activities Fee (SAF)
"Somali Night: Celebrating Culture and Building Community" is an event designed to showcase Somali culture, foster community engagement, and promote sustainability at UW. Featuring traditional Somali performances—dance, poetry, music, and storytelling—the event aims to celebrate diversity, combat recent hateful incidents, and reclaim space for underrepresented communities.
CSF funding will cover essential costs like venue, performers, and audio equipment, and support a keynote speaker addressing the intersection of sustainability and community resilience, highlighting climate change's impact on vulnerable communities such as those in Somalia.
Guided by principles of diversity and sustainability, the project includes planning, outreach, execution, and reflection phases, with efforts to minimize environmental impact. By amplifying Somali voices and integrating sustainability into cultural events, Somali Night will promote cultural awareness, inspire environmental stewardship, and foster a more inclusive campus.
Our project idea, "Somali Night: Celebrating Culture and Building Community" is a multifaceted event designed to showcase Somali culture, foster community engagement, and promote sustainability at theUW. The event will feature traditional Somali performances, including dance, poetry, music, and visual storytelling, providing a platform for cultural exchange and celebration. CSF funding will be utilized to cover various expenses essential to the success of the event, including venue costs, performer fees, speaker fees, and sound/audio equipment rental. This funding is critical for us for multiple reasons. Firstly, it will enable us to raise awareness and promote diversity on campus, particularly in light of recent hateful incidents targeting underrepresented communities like ours. By hosting Somali Night, we aim to reclaim our space at UW and demonstrate our resilience and contributions to campus culture.
Additionally, a portion of the budget will be allocated to bring in a keynote speaker who will address the intersection of sustainability and community resilience. The speaker will highlight the impact of climate change on vulnerable communities, such as those affected by floods in Somalia, and emphasize the importance of sustainability initiatives in mitigating these effects. This presentation will serve as a catalyst for conversations around sustainability and inspire attendees to consider their role in fostering environmental stewardship.
The project will unfold in several core phases: planning and coordination, promotion and outreach, event execution, and post-event evaluation and reflection. Each phase will be guided by diversity and sustainability principles, with efforts to minimize waste, energy consumption, and environmental impact throughout the process.
This project builds upon existing initiatives at UW by amplifying the voices and contributions of the Somali community and integrating sustainability into cultural events. By securing CSF funding, we can realize our vision of creating an inclusive and sustainable campus environment where diverse cultural traditions are celebrated and environmental responsibility is embraced by all.
In summary, CSF funding is crucial for Somali Night to achieve its goals of promoting cultural awareness, community engagement, and sustainability at UW. It not only supports the logistical aspects of the event but also enables us to address pressing social issues and foster meaningful dialogue around sustainability and resilience.
Aliya Adan
Project lead
- aliyaa9@uw.edu
- Affiliation
- Student
- Years
- 1 year(s) remaining at UW
- Affiliated groups
- Sociology
Kouther Ahmed
Team member
- kahmed3@uw.edu
- Affiliation
- Student
- Years
- 1 year(s) remaining at UW
- Affiliated groups
- Biology
Dana Ahmed
BSC director
- /ASUWBCS@UW.EDU
- Affiliation and department
- OMAD
Hailey Capps
SAO advisor
- cappsh@uw.edu
- Affiliation and department
- SAO
Request amount and budget
Plans for financial longevity
After the CSF funding ends, Somali Night will continue to have a lasting impact on the UW community. The recorded event will serve as a valuable resource for future reference and outreach efforts, allowing individuals who were unable to attend to access and engage with the content. Additionally, the attendee surveys will provide valuable feedback for improving future iterations of Somali Night and other similar
events.
Furthermore, the Organizing Committee plans to create a digital archive of the event, including recordings, photographs, and testimonials, which will be accessible to the UW community and beyond. This archive will serve as a testament to the success and significance of Somali Night in promoting cultural awareness, community engagement, and sustainability at UW.
In terms of maintenance, the digital archive will require periodic updates and maintenance to ensure continued accessibility and relevance. The Organizing Committee will establish protocols for updating and managing the archive to preserve its integrity and value over time.
Here's a timeline for Somali Night with the end date of April 28th:
1. January 15th - February 15th:
- Formation of Organizing Committee: Recruit volunteers and establish roles.
- Venue Booking: Research and secure a venue suitable for the event.
2. February 16th - March 15th:
- Performer Recruitment: Reach out to Somali artists, dancers, poets, and musicians to participate in the event.
- Keynote Speaker Confirmation: Identify and confirm a keynote speaker to address sustainability issues.
- Budget Planning: Finalize budget allocation for venue, performers, speakers, and audio equipment.
3. March 16th - April 5th:
- Promotion and Marketing: Develop promotional materials (posters, flyers, social media posts) and start promoting the event across campus and community channels.
- Rehearsals and Coordination: Schedule and conduct rehearsals for performers, ensuring smooth coordination of performances
- Finalize Logistics: Confirm event logistics such as stage setup, audiovisual equipment, and catering.
4. April 6th - April 21st:
- Intensive Promotion: Ramp up promotional efforts to increase event visibility and attract a diverse audience.
- Finalize Program: Confirm performance lineup, keynote speaker details, and any additional program elements.
- Volunteer Training: Conduct training sessions for volunteers to ensure they are prepared for their roles during the event.
5. April 22nd - April 28th (Event Week):
- Venue Setup: Set up the venue according to the finalized plan, including stage setup, seating arrangements, and decoration.
- Event Execution: Host Somali Night, featuring performances, presentations, and keynote address.- Post-Event Evaluation: Gather feedback from attendees and volunteers to evaluate the event's success and identify areas for improvement.
- Financial Reporting: Compile financial reports and submit them as required by funding sources.
Plans for long-term project management
n/a
Problem statement
The project idea for Somali Night at the University of Washington (UW) aligns with both social and environmental sustainability goals. Social sustainability is promoted through cultural awareness, preservation, and representation of underrepresented communities, such as the Somali community. Somali Night provides a platform for cultural exchange, celebration, and education, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Somali heritage among UW students, faculty, and staff. This enhances cultural diversity and inclusivity on campus, contributing to a more socially sustainable environment.
Furthermore, the event promotes diverse and interdisciplinary collaboration by bringing together individuals from various backgrounds to organize and participate in performances, presentations, and discussions. This fosters connections and dialogue across different cultures and disciplines, promoting collaboration and mutual understanding, which are essential components of social sustainability.
In terms of environmental sustainability, Somali Night aims to incorporate sustainable practices into its planning and execution. This includes efforts to reduce waste generation, energy consumption, and resource depletion associated with the event. For example, our organizers may opt for eco-friendly materials, promote recycling and composting, and minimize energy use during performances and presentations. By integrating environmental sustainability into the event's planning and execution, Somali Night demonstrates a commitment to holistic sustainability, addressing both social and environmental dimensions to create a more sustainable campus community at UW.
Problem context
Somali Night aligns with UW's Sustainability Action Plan by promoting engagement, diversity, equity, and inclusion within the university community. The event provides a platform for diverse voices to be heard and recognized while celebrating Somali culture and promoting sustainability. This directly supports UW Sustainability's goal of enhancing engagement through a robust community engagement process. Somali Night fosters understanding of diverse communities and histories, contributing to the university's efforts to develop strategies for equitable and diverse engagement.
Additionally, Somali Night relates to the Diversity Blueprint's goal of advancing access, inclusion, and equity through place-based education and engagement. By showcasing Somali heritage and addressing environmental justice and resilience, the event promotes awareness and engagement with diverse communities and histories. Incorporating sustainability into cultural celebrations further supports the Diversity Blueprint's objectives of developing understandings of diverse communities and orienting individuals to their local environments and campuses. Through collaboration with UW Sustainability and Diversity Blueprint initiatives, Somali Night can enhance its impact and contribute to the university's broader goals of sustainability, diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Measure the impacts
| Impact / goal | Metric(s) of success | UW stakeholders impacted |
|---|---|---|
| Cultural Awareness and Appreciation: Somali Night will foster cultural awareness and appreciation within the UW community by showcasing Somali heritage through performances, presentations, and discussions. | 200 attendees | Undergraduate, Graduate, Alumni, Academic staff, Admin staff |
| Somali Night will promote sustainability education by integrating discussions on environmental issues, climate resilience, and sustainable practices into the event's programming, including a keynote address on sustainability and community resilience. | 100 attendees engaged | Undergraduate, Graduate, Alumni, Academic staff, Admin staff |
| The event will provide a platform for community engagement, dialogue, and collaboration among diverse stakeholders, fostering connections and relationships across cultural and disciplinary boundaries. | 50 networking interactions | Undergraduate, Graduate, Alumni, Academic staff, Admin staff |
Communication tactics and tools
Our key communication tactics will include a mix of digital and in-person methods to maximize outreach and engagement: Social Media: Regular posts on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to promote the event, share updates, and highlight performers and speakers.Tabling: Setting up informational booths in high-traffic areas on campus to engage with students directly, answer questions, and distribute promotional materials.By utilizing these communication tactics, we aim to reach a diverse audience and maximize participation.
Outreach communication plan
We will approach communication through a multi-channel strategy, including social media, campus newsletters, flyers, and direct outreach to relevant student organizations and cultural groups. Post-event, we'll share impacts through email newsletters, social media posts, and presentations to relevant campus committees. The UW community, including students, faculty, staff, and local community members, will benefit from our project deliverables, fostering cultural awareness and community engagement.
Student involvement
n/a
Problem statement
The project idea for Somali Night at the University of Washington (UW) aligns with both social and environmental sustainability goals. Social sustainability is promoted through cultural awareness, preservation, and representation of underrepresented communities, such as the Somali community. Somali Night provides a platform for cultural exchange, celebration, and education, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Somali heritage among UW students, faculty, and staff. This enhances cultural diversity and inclusivity on campus, contributing to a more socially sustainable environment.
Furthermore, the event promotes diverse and interdisciplinary collaboration by bringing together individuals from various backgrounds to organize and participate in performances, presentations, and discussions. This fosters connections and dialogue across different cultures and disciplines, promoting collaboration and mutual understanding, which are essential components of social sustainability.
In terms of environmental sustainability, Somali Night aims to incorporate sustainable practices into its planning and execution. This includes efforts to reduce waste generation, energy consumption, and resource depletion associated with the event. For example, our organizers may opt for eco-friendly materials, promote recycling and composting, and minimize energy use during performances and presentations. By integrating environmental sustainability into the event's planning and execution, Somali Night demonstrates a commitment to holistic sustainability, addressing both social and environmental dimensions to create a more sustainable campus community at UW.
Problem context
Somali Night aligns with UW's Sustainability Action Plan by promoting engagement, diversity, equity, and inclusion within the university community. The event provides a platform for diverse voices to be heard and recognized while celebrating Somali culture and promoting sustainability. This directly supports UW Sustainability's goal of enhancing engagement through a robust community engagement process. Somali Night fosters understanding of diverse communities and histories, contributing to the university's efforts to develop strategies for equitable and diverse engagement.
Additionally, Somali Night relates to the Diversity Blueprint's goal of advancing access, inclusion, and equity through place-based education and engagement. By showcasing Somali heritage and addressing environmental justice and resilience, the event promotes awareness and engagement with diverse communities and histories. Incorporating sustainability into cultural celebrations further supports the Diversity Blueprint's objectives of developing understandings of diverse communities and orienting individuals to their local environments and campuses. Through collaboration with UW Sustainability and Diversity Blueprint initiatives, Somali Night can enhance its impact and contribute to the university's broader goals of sustainability, diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Measure the impacts
| Impact / goal | Metric(s) of success | UW stakeholders impacted |
|---|---|---|
| Cultural Awareness and Appreciation: Somali Night will foster cultural awareness and appreciation within the UW community by showcasing Somali heritage through performances, presentations, and discussions. | 200 attendees | Undergraduate, Graduate, Alumni, Academic staff, Admin staff |
| Somali Night will promote sustainability education by integrating discussions on environmental issues, climate resilience, and sustainable practices into the event's programming, including a keynote address on sustainability and community resilience. | 100 attendees engaged | Undergraduate, Graduate, Alumni, Academic staff, Admin staff |
| The event will provide a platform for community engagement, dialogue, and collaboration among diverse stakeholders, fostering connections and relationships across cultural and disciplinary boundaries. | 50 networking interactions | Undergraduate, Graduate, Alumni, Academic staff, Admin staff |
Communication tactics and tools
Our key communication tactics will include a mix of digital and in-person methods to maximize outreach and engagement: Social Media: Regular posts on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to promote the event, share updates, and highlight performers and speakers.Tabling: Setting up informational booths in high-traffic areas on campus to engage with students directly, answer questions, and distribute promotional materials.By utilizing these communication tactics, we aim to reach a diverse audience and maximize participation.
Outreach communication plan
We will approach communication through a multi-channel strategy, including social media, campus newsletters, flyers, and direct outreach to relevant student organizations and cultural groups. Post-event, we'll share impacts through email newsletters, social media posts, and presentations to relevant campus committees. The UW community, including students, faculty, staff, and local community members, will benefit from our project deliverables, fostering cultural awareness and community engagement.
Student involvement
n/a
Problem statement
The project idea for Somali Night at the University of Washington (UW) aligns with both social and environmental sustainability goals. Social sustainability is promoted through cultural awareness, preservation, and representation of underrepresented communities, such as the Somali community. Somali Night provides a platform for cultural exchange, celebration, and education, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Somali heritage among UW students, faculty, and staff. This enhances cultural diversity and inclusivity on campus, contributing to a more socially sustainable environment.
Furthermore, the event promotes diverse and interdisciplinary collaboration by bringing together individuals from various backgrounds to organize and participate in performances, presentations, and discussions. This fosters connections and dialogue across different cultures and disciplines, promoting collaboration and mutual understanding, which are essential components of social sustainability.
In terms of environmental sustainability, Somali Night aims to incorporate sustainable practices into its planning and execution. This includes efforts to reduce waste generation, energy consumption, and resource depletion associated with the event. For example, our organizers may opt for eco-friendly materials, promote recycling and composting, and minimize energy use during performances and presentations. By integrating environmental sustainability into the event's planning and execution, Somali Night demonstrates a commitment to holistic sustainability, addressing both social and environmental dimensions to create a more sustainable campus community at UW.
Problem context
Somali Night aligns with UW's Sustainability Action Plan by promoting engagement, diversity, equity, and inclusion within the university community. The event provides a platform for diverse voices to be heard and recognized while celebrating Somali culture and promoting sustainability. This directly supports UW Sustainability's goal of enhancing engagement through a robust community engagement process. Somali Night fosters understanding of diverse communities and histories, contributing to the university's efforts to develop strategies for equitable and diverse engagement.
Additionally, Somali Night relates to the Diversity Blueprint's goal of advancing access, inclusion, and equity through place-based education and engagement. By showcasing Somali heritage and addressing environmental justice and resilience, the event promotes awareness and engagement with diverse communities and histories. Incorporating sustainability into cultural celebrations further supports the Diversity Blueprint's objectives of developing understandings of diverse communities and orienting individuals to their local environments and campuses. Through collaboration with UW Sustainability and Diversity Blueprint initiatives, Somali Night can enhance its impact and contribute to the university's broader goals of sustainability, diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Measure the impacts
| Impact / goal | Metric(s) of success | UW stakeholders impacted |
|---|---|---|
| Cultural Awareness and Appreciation: Somali Night will foster cultural awareness and appreciation within the UW community by showcasing Somali heritage through performances, presentations, and discussions. | 200 attendees | Undergraduate, Graduate, Alumni, Academic staff, Admin staff |
| Somali Night will promote sustainability education by integrating discussions on environmental issues, climate resilience, and sustainable practices into the event's programming, including a keynote address on sustainability and community resilience. | 100 attendees engaged | Undergraduate, Graduate, Alumni, Academic staff, Admin staff |
| The event will provide a platform for community engagement, dialogue, and collaboration among diverse stakeholders, fostering connections and relationships across cultural and disciplinary boundaries. | 50 networking interactions | Undergraduate, Graduate, Alumni, Academic staff, Admin staff |
Communication tactics and tools
Our key communication tactics will include a mix of digital and in-person methods to maximize outreach and engagement: Social Media: Regular posts on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to promote the event, share updates, and highlight performers and speakers.Tabling: Setting up informational booths in high-traffic areas on campus to engage with students directly, answer questions, and distribute promotional materials.By utilizing these communication tactics, we aim to reach a diverse audience and maximize participation.
Outreach communication plan
We will approach communication through a multi-channel strategy, including social media, campus newsletters, flyers, and direct outreach to relevant student organizations and cultural groups. Post-event, we'll share impacts through email newsletters, social media posts, and presentations to relevant campus committees. The UW community, including students, faculty, staff, and local community members, will benefit from our project deliverables, fostering cultural awareness and community engagement.
Student involvement
n/a