About us

Celebrating Heritage. Empowering Future Generations.

Founded in 2018, Hiddo Centre Foundation was established to preserve culture, empower youth, and strengthen communities through education, storytelling, and social programs. What began as a small community initiative quickly grew into a movement driven by a vision to support marginalized and ethnocultural communities across Canada. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic brought significant challenges. Like many grassroots organizations, Hiddo Centre faced disruptions to programming, community events, and outreach. Despite these obstacles, the values that inspired our creation kept our mission alive. By 2021 and 2022, the organization proudly restarted with renewed purpose, expanding its focus to address the evolving needs of families, youth, and women affected by social and economic barriers. This revival marked a new chapter centered on healing, rebuilding, and reconnecting communities that had been deeply impacted by isolation and inequality. Today, Hiddo Centre stands as a beacon of cultural pride, empowerment, and belonging. Our programs celebrate identity, nurture leadership, and create opportunities for growth. Whether through arts, mentorship, mental health initiatives, or housing and poverty reduction programs, we work to build a Canada where everyone, regardless of background, has the opportunity to thrive.

Our Mission

Education: We provide safe, supportive spaces where Black youth receive academic mentorship from Black educators—helping them build confidence, self-efficacy, and academic success. Employment: We create opportunities for youth to gain real work experience through volunteer roles and summer training in event management, public relations, and leadership. Cultural Inclusion: Through our Annual Somali Culture & Traditions Event and ongoing initiatives, we celebrate Somali heritage, promote pride, and foster understanding across communities.

Our Vision

Hiddo Centre Foundation envisions a vibrant and united Somali-Canadian community where heritage, arts, and culture bridge generations and strengthen identity. We strive to ensure that marginalized communities are empowered and active participants in their own success, with equitable access to education, opportunity, and belonging. Through learning, empowerment, and community-building, we work toward an inclusive and prosperous society for all.

Our Approach

Hiddo Centre’s work is guided by three core principles:

Culture as Connection

Preserving and celebrating heritage as a source of pride and unity.

Empowerment through Education

Equipping communities with skills, mentorship, and leadership development.

Wellness and Equity

Creating safe, inclusive spaces that promote healing, belonging, and opportunity for all.

Our Impact

Since our relaunch, Hiddo Centre has reestablished community programming that reaches hundreds of participants each year, including youth discovering leadership, women finding their voice, and families rebuilding their futures. Every program, event, and initiative we deliver moves us closer to our goal of building a thriving, equitable community where every story matters and every person belongs.