ISIRKA

S3.EP3. This episode features Mustafa Saeed, a photographer and graphic designer based in Hargeysa. We spoke more about his journey, his current plans and what he has coming up in the future. He is someone committed to enhancing the visual arts scene at home. Enjoy this episode!

In this episode (my first in person recording!!) I speak to SayidCali Ahmed who's a rising senior at Westminster College in Missouri. We spoke at Princeton University where he is taking summer courses as apart of the prestigious Junior Summer Institute. SayidCali is an Abaarso Alum who went on to work at the boarding school after graduation. That experience led him towards a love of education, mentorship and public policy. He has bright dreams for his future and it was a pleasure to speak to him about his journey.

Hello Everyone, It's been a while but I'm back for Season 3 of ISIRKA! In this episode, I introduce the theme of the new season- Hayaan: A long journey. I'm about to head out on a great adventure -catch me where you can!

In this episode, I'm rounding out Season 2 and introducing Season 3. Stay tuned for more!

This episode of Ragga Dambe is on Ismaaciil C. Ubax, a writer, content creator, and a positive social change agent. He has utilized storytelling as a tool for activism through various campaigns. Through his podcast, Codka Ubax, he sheds light on those who are storytellers, change makers and cultural carriers. In this episode though, I share a lil more about how I perceive Ismaaciil and how through his artistry and work, Ismaaciil is giving the Somali community much to be proud of and accessibility to engage with language, activism and culture. Enjoy this episode!

S2EP17. Where is Half the Sky? In this episode I reflect on the place of Somali women in politics and civil society. As we are vying for recognition and legitimate statehood where are the women in this conversation? Across the Somali territories where are the women???

S2EP16. How Far Would You Travel for Love? (Pt. 2) | Exploring Somali Identity Through Time, Sound, and Memory

In this episode, I continue a personal journey through time, sound, and space — using Somali music as a portal into the layered meanings of Somalinimo (Somali Identity). This is part two of a reflection on love, not just in the romantic sense, but love as belonging, longing, and cultural memory.

Through songs, stories, and the echoes of history, I trace my evolving relationship with Somali identity — what it has meant across generations, across borders, and across moments of both loss and connection. This episode is as much a meditation as it is a conversation with the past, asking: What anchors us to who we are? What do we carry with us? And how far would you travel — emotionally, spiritually, and physically — for love, for identity, for home?

I’d love to hear how these themes show up in your life. Share your thoughts or stories with me on Instagram @_isirka.

Stay tuned for the next episode — and as always, thank you for listening.

Discover more at ISIRKA.com.

S2EP15. INTL WOMEN'S DAY- This day amongst Women's History month is International Women's day! and so of course I had to talk about the ladies that came before us. I share a little bit more about why and what I mean by this term and of course show my appreciation for the Ladies that came before us! Its been a while but I'm excited to be back! Enjoy this episode and stay tuned for more.

Its Feb the month of love, so I put together a couple of my fav recent Somali love songs. Did I forget any of your favorites? Let me know!

Tracklist

Jacayl wa Habaar Qabe - CABDULQAADIR HASAN NAGEEYE

Dhadigaba Aduunbaa- Lafoole

Caashaq Raagay Meel Mari - Yurub Geenyo

Ka Maydho Wixii Kusoo Maray - Cabdi Ciise Cajuun & Nimco Dareen

Qalamaanyo - Amina Abdillahi & Axmed Cali Cigaal

Dhibsaday Fogaantaada - Xariir Axmed

Wajiyaal is Xasuusta - Muna Miski & Nimcaan Hilaac

Waa Amaanta - Muna Miski & Lafoole

ISIR - Awaale Adan & Miss Xiis

Jaceeylka Qiil U Yeel - Ikraan Maxabe

Raganimo -Amina Farax Waber

Xalaawatu Laws- Nimcaan Hilaac

Is Yeel - Dur Dur Band

Kaalay Maanka - Xariir Ahmed

Hawaawiga Adaa I Baray - Roda Maash

Surbacaadka Caashaqa - Mursal Musse & Yurub Geenyo

Balantii (Xasuustii Saado Ali) Rahma Rose & Abdiwahab Antar

In this week's episode I talk to DJ Amal, a Female DJ based in Toronto, Canada. We talked about Somali music of course and a bit of her journey. Whereas there are many male DJs in the Somali music scene, there are not too many women DJs In this convo Amal sheds light on her experience and her hopes for Somali music in the future. Follow her on Instagram and TikTok at DJ_Amalx