Promoting one's culture is not shameful as many peole think.
In fact it is a privilege and a treasure. This man is making good money and at the same time keeping his culture known.

After the outbreak of civil war in Somalia in 1991, many Somalis fled to different parts of the world including the USA where they faced a totally different way of life.

People responded differently. Some adjusted to the new system and followed the tide. Some failed the test of time due to the many barriers facing them including the inability to communicate, financial hardship, cultural shock and many other factors.

The majority of the Somali population in the US have managed to be successful in life. Many are working in full tie jobs, going to colleges and universities and doing business. Most business owners sell Halal meat at a grocery store, clothes in a small shop, beauty products, tea and foods or even jewelry.

There is one man in Columbus, Ohio who decided to trade in a different product- Somali cultural artifacts. He has one of the busiest shops at the Global Mall. Mr Diriye sells all types of artifacts from Somalia including the headrest, traditional canes, milk vessels, wooden spoons, wall decorations, necklaces, bracelets, beads, and traditional dresses. In addition, he stores historical items such as the the Somali currency at all stages and pictures.

Mr. Diiriye's products enjoy the admiration of both the Somali community and the local Americans as well as high demand by immigrants from other parts of the world. Every Somali hotel or mall is decorated with cultural artifacts from Diiriye's shop. He is a shining star among the Somali community in Ohio because of his desire to keep his culture alive among many others.

I sat with Diiriye and spoke to him about his life, interests and aspirations, and I am working on it now. I will present his thrilling story in my next article...

Please come back....

Abdullahi