A global, grassroots movement of people.
The Platform:
I Am A Star
Taking our cue from the flag of Somalia – the white Star of Unity centered in a field of blue – the I Am A Star campaign approached humanitarian relief in a whole new way. It was a co-creation of Alight, members of the Somali Diaspora from across the globe, and aid workers on the ground in Mogadisu, and millions more who raised their hand to help. Before we even launched operations in Mogadishu, thousands of members of the community added their voices and collaborated in a unique approach, leveraging a swell of grassroots fundraising that resulted in our ability to respond to the terrible famine happening in Somalia when no one else could.
And, with the seed funds raised - including by a group of students that held a car wash in the Twin Cities that earned $8,000 - we were able to launch what is now our largest country program in Somalia, raising more than $70 million since its inception.
A New Narrative
I AM A STAR shone light on the incredible strength, resourcefulness, and generosity of the Somali people, including placing more than 750 positive stories in the US and international media. Celebrities joined in, with K’NAAN & Bono, Somali fashion designers Mataano, TV’s Chef Roble, Sweet Rush and more putting their star power behind the effort. And people from more than 60 countries took the message global. From Mexico to Malaysia, Austria to Australia, people have taken action for Somalia.
Work Continues
It will take an investment of time and great effort to shake off the legacy of 20 years of war and unrest in Somalia. Sustained creative action is necessary to help Somalia recover and rebuild. The legacy of I AM A STAR continues in our collaborations and co-creations with the Somali business community, religious leaders, and individual citizens invested in the rebuilding and future of Somalia. Together, we’re protecting the health and well-being of Somalis who remain vulnerable and working to rebuild the economy and create livelihoods that will allow the country to recover.