“The primary motivation for my mom to kickstart this venture was to expose the vibrant Somali culture to the Canadian populace while preserving tradition since Somalia predominantly relied on oral storytelling,” shared Osman. He emphasized that the oral tradition lacked documentation, prompting his mother to ensure the history transcends generations.
Moussa migrated to Canada in 1991 and invested six years in materializing her dream. Her goal was to educate her sons and the broader community about the allure of Somali culture.
“I conceptualized this enterprise to amplify our voice and cultural essence,” Moussa expressed. Recognizing the void in Canadian education about Somali heritage, she felt compelled to fill that gap.
Osman manages the business’s online presence on social media platforms, while his siblings handle logistics and research. Moussa oversees the cultural and interpersonal aspects, cementing the family-oriented nature of the operation.
Securing a suitable rental space posed a significant challenge in launching the museum. Osman recounted the arduous process of surveying numerous properties, underscoring the negotiation hurdles with landlords.
“This location serves as a stepping stone, especially for securing financial support through grant applications that mandate a physical space,” explained Osman.
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After finalizing the venue, the focal point of the museum became the meticulously crafted artifacts. These handmade items, from clay vessels to traditional huts, reflect the essence of Somali heritage.
“We aim to forge collaborations with fellow Somalis knowledgeable in areas like traditional weaving to enrich our exhibits,” Osman expressed.
With a background in photography and videography, Osman leverages his entrepreneurial experience in managing the museum, particularly in financial aspects.
Overcoming financial constraints remains a significant obstacle, requiring self-funding and solid evidence when seeking grants. Moussa’s preference for proactive ventures propels the museum forward, despite initial challenges.
While not yet profitable, future plans are in motion following temporary closure for renovations over winter. The reopening coincided with the Eid Al-Fitr festivities.
“This project marks a new chapter for us. My mom’s transition from the nonprofit sector to entrepreneurship presents a unique set of challenges,” noted Osman.