Rhoda Ibrahim is a respected community leader and the founder -CEO of SAAFI (Somali Advice and Forum for Information), an organisation she established to support disadvantaged families, new migrants and residents for whom English is not a first language. With a degree in social sciences, Rhoda has delivered education, advice and women’s empowerment projects across the UK and internationally, including in Djibouti, Somaliland, Ethiopia, Somalia and Yemen. Colleagues routinely describe her as a dynamic organiser and a pillar of the London–Somali community.
Rhoda has led knife-crime awareness and prevention programmes funded by VRU/MOPAC at City Hall, working with parents, young people and schools to build resilience and keep communities safe. During the Covid-19 pandemic she spoke out about the disproportionate impact on Black and minority ethnic families and helped mobilise practical support, using her networks to reach those least likely to access services. Her community leadership has been widely recognised: in June 2019 she was invited to Buckingham Palace with other civic leaders in recognition of service to the public.
Today, Rhoda continues to champion opportunity, safety and inclusion through SAAFI’s advice sessions, women’s groups and youth activities-bringing people together, tackling isolation and ensuring every family can navigate services, thrive and participate fully in local life.