Mr. Omar Ali Hassan was born in Qorijabley, near Hargeisa the year 1991. When Omar was seven, their family moved to Hargeisa, where he obtained basic education, proceeded to high school, and later joined University where he graduated with a degree in Media and Mass Communication. Just recently, Mr. Omar obtained Master’s degree in International Relations and Diplomacy. He is married with two children: Abdalle and Hibo.
“I learned the Arabic language and its Art at a young age. Then I started to compare Somali Art to Arabic Art. From that comparison, I realized the extent of negligence regarding our Art” said Omar he added “Somali art is interesting. Sometimes it is for entertainment, sometimes it is for knowledge. It is our identity and history. “
I asked Omar about the most challenging problem facing the Art of Somalia to which he replied “Even those who have the information are disinterested, and the community is misled by foreign curriculums learning about other cultures and art of other civilizations,” Omar said, “Arabic art like Nashiida is normalized, but our art is forbidden, this is taught by our children using an exported curriculum. “
The most challenging part is the verification of the owner. Many years of unrecorded art, today many people claim to be poets or singers. As media expert, Omar suggests ways in which we can verify intellectual property with respect to art and poetry. He says “My nine years of experience in media, I am confident we are ready to undertake a verification exercise and establish copyrights,” Omar states.
Art preservation is crucial to the existence of communities. Mr Omar met most of the living Somali poets, comedians, and singers and interviewed them about their poems, songs, and personal biographies. Even for poets who have passed away, he attempts to study their works to not miss a thing.
As friends, Omar and I are classmates enrolled in a same course. He was unmatched in his dedication and I never saw Omar miss a single session. “I am life-long learner, who balances his work to his/classes education, pursue a multidisciplinary career, with a special focus in Somali art and culture”.
Omar will soon publish his book on Somali Literature and Art to inform younger generations. “I compiled important Art by numerous poets into my book, all that I could about our art’s history. Once published, it will be made available” he stated.
Seerbiya & his classmates
People like Omar, who take sole responsibility for the preservation of our cultural heritage, deserve our utmost respect and honor. I am inspired by his selfless sacrifice towards preserving art.