The creative collective
Hundreds of creatives across artistic, cultural and media fields, local and diaspora, with different skills, backgrounds and perspectives.
About
Fankeenna began in 2020 with a simple need.
Artists and creatives in Hargeisa needed a space of their own. A place to create and share their work. A place to meet, collaborate and learn. A place to experiment and take risks. A place for communities to come together. A place to be seen, heard and included.
Our story
Over time, Fankeenna has grown into a space where art and community meet. Through creativity, storytelling and open dialogue, we explore our culture, identity and the social issues that shape our lives. We bring different voices together, encourage inclusion and create room for conversations that are often missing.
Built with care, by artists and for artists, Fankeenna is open to everyone who believes in the power of creativity to connect people and inspire change.
The people behind Fankeenna
Fankeenna is a youth-led, locally driven and community-based hub. Three groups keep it running.
The volunteers
A strong volunteer base that runs events, exhibitions, screenings, workshops, production and community engagement. They keep the platform open and close to young people.
The secretariat
A small team that manages coordination, administration, finance, partnerships, communication, logistics and reporting, led by the Managing Director.
Creative Collective
Our Creative Collective is the backbone of Fankeenna.
It brings together people from visual arts, film and media, design, sound, performance, writing, storytelling and cultural practice.
They are both users and volunteers. They create, learn and share their work in the space, while also helping with activities, events, exhibitions and much more.
Vision
A society where creativity is a force for opportunity, expression and social change.
Mission
Strengthen the creative sector by supporting young creatives to develop their potential, access opportunities and contribute to social change.
Our three objectives
01
Improve and expand the creative sector
Spaces for learning, production, networking, exhibition, performance, dialogue and collaboration.
02
Strengthen the creative economy
Training, resources, visibility, networks, market access and professional development, so creative skills become income.
03
Use creativity for social change
Creative programming that raises awareness, brings people together and supports collective action on shared social issues.
Who we work with
Young creatives
Emerging artists, filmmakers, writers, musicians, performers, designers and digital creators who need space, support and opportunities to develop their work.
Women and marginalised youth
Women and young people who face additional barriers to creative expression and opportunity. We support their participation, visibility and access to resources across our programmes.
Local communities
People from different backgrounds who come together to experience creativity, share stories, build connections and discuss issues that affect their lives.
Our partners
Artists, cultural organisations, schools, academia, businesses, donors and public institutions that work with us to support local creativity and strengthen community life.
Creativity as a force for change
All our work contribute to one or more of these connected levels.
MICRO · Individuals
Developing skills, voice and opportunity
We give young creatives access to training, mentorship, workspaces and opportunities to create and lead.
The change we work towards
Young creatives build skills, confidence and portfolios. They gain opportunities to earn from their work, express their views and take an active role in society.
MESO · Communities
Building connection through participation
Through our film festival, exhibitions, performances, public discussions and publications, we bring people together to share stories and explore issues that affect their lives.
The change we work towards
More people take part in public and cultural life. Communities build connections across differences, underrepresented voices reach wider audiences, and creative expression opens space for dialogue.
MACRO · The creative sector and wider society
Strengthening the conditions for creativity
We build partnerships, contribute to research, promote local creative work and develop market opportunities. We use research and evidence from our programmes to advocate for greater support for arts and culture.
The change we work towards
Local creatives gain greater recognition, stronger networks and better access to resources and markets. The creative sector gain a stronger place in public life and development priorities.
Our long-term contribution
A more inclusive society where young people can create, earn, express themselves and help shape society.
Governance
Fankeenna is registered as a non-governmental organisation in the Republic of Somaliland, NGO license no. L43. 13. 1439. 2025 M/J.
General Assembly
The supreme authority. Meets once a year, approves the audited accounts, the plan of action and the budget, and elects the Executive Board.
Executive Board
The governing body, 3 to 11 members elected for three years, with a Chairman, Vice Chairman, Treasurer and Secretary.
Secretariat
The Managing Director and staff who run the organisation day to day.
External auditor
Appointed by the General Assembly. Every grant has separate accounts and a financial and narrative report to the funder.
Support Fankeenna
Our work is funded by grants, sponsorship, partnerships, gifts in kind and the time our volunteers give. Every form of support keeps the space free and open for everyone.
Sponsor
Sponsor an event, a programme or the space itself. Sponsors are credited in our communication and get a report on the results.
Become a sponsorPartner with us
Co-create programmes, events and campaigns with us that reach young people and local communities across Somaliland.
Propose a partnershipGive in kind
Donate equipment, materials or professional services that help young creatives learn, create and share their work.
Offer a gift in kindVolunteer
Give your time and skills. Help out at our events, share your expertise or mentor the next generation of young creatives.
Join as a volunteer