A SOMALI community group is holding a public meeting to tackling violent crime in memory of a student killed in Wealdstone.
Harrow Association of Somali Voluntary Organisations (HASVO) is bringing residents together in an effort to tackle problems members say exist in their community.
The event, on Wednesday, July 29, aims to address issues like gang culture and drug abuse and was organised following the fatal stabbing of Hassan Kul Hawadleh, 19, in February.
Abdi Musa, a youth scheme manager for HASVO, said: “This event is based on the violence that’s been going on in Harrow recently.
“The main objectives are to highlight to the Somali community that they haven’t been neglected.
“It was an isolated incident in Harrow but the conference is to indication that there is something wrong. It’s to raise awareness that there are issues that cannot be ignored.â€
Nasir Diriye, a youth project co-ordinator for HASVO, added: “We will be talking about the tragic death of Hassan Kul Hawadleh.
“We will be highlighting to the youth that they need to move away from the life of crime, substance use and even gangs.â€
Mr Musa and Mr Diriye say there are postive things happening in the Somali community, including a scheme designed to help get young men into employment.
A series of politicians and dignitaries have been invited to the conference, at Byron Hall, in Christchurch Avenue, Wealdstone, but a follow up event just for young Somali men is planned for the future.
The organisation hopes to challenge negative images presented of its community and find lasting solutions to problems raised.
Aminah Farah, a HASVO volunteer, said: “The final goal is to find a solution and hopefully some things will be applied not just in Harrow but in other areas as well.
“Hopefully we will build a stronger community in London.â€
Hassan Kul Hawadleh died after he was stabbed on the forecourt of the Total garage, in High Street, Wealdstone, on February 19.
Four men have been charged with murder and are due to stand trial at the Old Bailey on Monday, September 28.
They are Onochie Madekwe, 33, Michael Anthony Boyde, 37, Abdul Khan, 18, all of no fixed address, and Andrew Spence, 21, of Ealing.
Source: Harrowtimes
By Jack Royston
