Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2025, Acquisition International | 21 Best Community Family Support Programme 2025 – London & Enriching Youth Digital Skills Training Programme of the Year 2025 – London Rooted in the traditional Somali saying of “gamco wadajir bay wax ku qabtaan”, which translates to “united effort leads to success” in English, KSO is so strongly motivated by this message that it underpins the spirit of the outstanding work done by its small and dedicated team. Simply put, this non-profit is passionate about making a real difference in the lives of those it serves, and it recognises the only way to enact the lasting change it seeks is through working together as a united effort. “Our internal culture is inclusive, purpose-driven, and collaborative”, explained Roda, “helping us to stay grounded in our mission of providing empowering programmes and services whilst remaining agile and innovative.” She continued: “In the non-profit sector, where resources can be limited and the work emotionally demanding, having a strong, supportive culture ensures a deep and sustainable impact.” Collaboration is KSO’s guiding light and has proven invaluable in it achieving its aim of supporting global majority communities. This success hinges on its team, the essential component of every NPO. Roda told us: “As a non-profit, we rely not just on strategy and vision but also on the passion, dedication, and collaboration of every individual. Our team bring our mission to life through every action – whether they’re engaging communities, fundraising, or working behind the scenes.” “Success for us isn’t about individual achievement; it’s the collective impact we’re able to create together. Every voice is valued, and every role matters. ” It is important to note that KSO doesn’t aim to simply impose these solutions, and it instead works with communities to co-create them. What this means is that its team engage with the relevant groups, listen to their concerns and feedback, and take the necessary action to see society’s most underserved and underrepresented provided with holistic, potentially life-changing support. This is why these community empowerment programmes are all created with respect, dignity, and cultural relevance. For example, when it comes to its women’s leadership and development programmes, the focus is on such areas as nurturing economic growth, supporting personal wellbeing, and ensuring access to external support services. Similarly, for those with children – especially single mothers – KSO helps by delivering provisions such as parenting workshops and dedicated support groups, holding both online and in-person sessions to see that women can access these services at a time and place that suits them. Roda and the team are similarly passionate about engaging the Somali and Bravenesese youth in London, helping them become productive, serving citizens. Through initiatives such as building digital skills, focusing on employment skills, and delivering advice, the impact they have had in these underserved communities is significant. These youth mentoring and education initiatives have proven especially effective for those tangled in the court system, reducing crime rates and boosting employment levels. Despite all the problems NPOs are currently facing – including postCOVID economic uncertainty, increased demand for their services, and the necessity for digital transformation – KSO has devised solutions for many of these challenges, such as diversifying its funding, partnering with like-minded organisations to expand its reach, and investing in new systems to improve the user experience across digital channels. All of this is just the beginning of the ambitious plans the organisation has for the year ahead. Commenting on this, Roda said: “As we look towards the rest of 2025 and beyond, our vision remains rooted in the heart of the communities we serve. We’re committed to continuing the work we’ve started – empowering women, supporting youth, and promoting health and wellbeing across diverse communities.” More specifically, this includes launching new programmes – especially for women and young people – as well as running new community events and setting expanded fundraising goals. Thanks to the plethora of ways in which it offers support for global majority communities in London, it is our pleasure to recognise the Kulan Somali Organisation with two awards in this programme. More information about the organisation, including where to donate to this fantastic cause, can be found at the below web address. Contact: Roda Saeed Company: Kulan Somali Organisation Web Address: https://www.kulankso.org/ Formed in 2002, the Kulan Somali Organisation (KSO) is a registered UK charity that strives to improve the lives of those in minority communities – especially the Somali and Bravenesese communities – in the London boroughs of Westminster, Kensington and Chelsea, and Newham. KSO does this in a number of ways, delivering advice, information, and support through specialised programmes. We caught up with Roda Saeed, the chair of this non-profit, to learn more about its enriching work. P Kulan Somali Organisation
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