Abdinasir Hersi Iidle is a Somali journalist with 30+ years of experience, beginning in the 1990s with Mogadishu newspapers. He went on to serve as Deputy Director of HornAfrik Radio and later as Chief Editor of Goobjoog Media. In 2014, he became Director of Hurmo Community Radio, shaping Somalia’s media landscape.

Alshafii Abtidon is a Somali writer, researcher, and journalist at Al-Araby TV. He holds a master’s in journalism from Paris (2023) and a bachelor’s in political science and journalism from Mogadishu University (2012). Author of Federalism in Somalia (2018), he has also published research papers in Arab and international platforms.

Hassan Mohamud, Executive Director and co-founder of Independence House, has 15 years’ experience in media, advocacy, and human rights. A former Executive Manager at Goobjoog Media Group, he is respected across Somalia and the Horn of Africa. He holds a Master’s in Public Administration, a Diploma in Law and Human Rights, and a Bachelor’s in Management Science.

Aweys Hassan Mohamed, Founder of SMC Somali Media, has 15+ years in broadcasting and media management. He hosted Awoodda 5-aad, led Bile Media, and is a recognized digital storyteller. He lectures at Mogadishu University and offers media consultancy.

Farhia Mohamed Kheyre is a Somali journalist, media trainer, and founding chair of the Somali Women Journalists Organization (SWJO) since 2013. With 10+ years of experience, she has worked with leading outlets like Horn Afrik, Shabelle, Somsat TV, Goobjoog, and COSOB Magazine.

Noor Ali Farah is a respected Somali journalist, communication strategist, and media personality with 15+ years of experience. An award-winning humanitarian journalist, he has worked with leading Somali TV and radio networks, gaining wide recognition. He also serves as a senior lecturer at Somali universities, mentoring the next generation of media professionals.

Hanad Ali Guled is a senior journalist and media trainer with 17+ years of experience. He previously served as Head of Training at the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS). He has worked as a senior editor and mentor in leading Somali media houses.

Shafii Moallim Ibrahim, Head of the Department of Journalism and Communication, has 15+ years of experience in journalism, media training, and academic leadership. Skilled in curriculum development, strategic media planning, and mentoring, he has worked extensively with media stakeholders, CSOs, and human rights defenders in Somalia.

Omar Serbia (Omar Ali Hassan) is a Somali journalist and cultural researcher with over a decade of experience in media. He is known for promoting Somali music, poetry, and arts, having worked with major media outlets and authored Fan iyo Fannaan, a book profiling over 1,000 Somali artists.