Somalia celebrated the return of its trailblazing sports icon Ramla Said Ahmed Ali, known globally as Ramla Ali, who has become a symbol of resilience, empowerment, and national pride.
Ali, the first Somali woman to win an international gold medal in boxing, arrived at Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu to a warm welcome from government officials and citizens.
How Did Mogadishou Welcomed the First Somali Woman Boxing Champion?
Minister of Family Affairs and Human Rights, Khadija Mohamed Al-Makhzoumi, praised Ali’s accomplishments, stating:
“Ramla Ali has carried our national flag on the global stage, and we are proud to welcome her home today.”
Deputy Governor of Banadir for Social Affairs, Abdiaziz Osman, added:
“Ramla Ali has shown that Somali women are resilient and capable of excelling on international platforms.”
Her reception reflects the pride Somalis feel for Ali’s achievements, which have inspired a new generation of young athletes, especially girls.
Who is Ramla Said Ahmed Ali?
Born in Mogadishu during Somalia’s civil war, Ramla Ali fled the country with her family after the tragic loss of her older brother.
Growing up in London, she began boxing secretly to overcome bullying and manage her weight.
What started as self-defense soon became a passion and career.
Ali rose quickly in the boxing world, winning England’s national championships and representing Somalia internationally.
She made history as the first Somali boxer—male or female—to compete at the Olympics at Tokyo 2020. She has also won multiple titles, including international gold medals.
A Global Influencer from Somalia
Beyond boxing, Ali is a model, author, and humanitarian.
She founded The Sisters Club, a charity offering free self-defense classes for women and girls from minority and refugee backgrounds, making her a global advocate for women’s empowerment.
Related Content:
- Somali Diaspora Fears: 4 Reasons to Stay Alarmed All the Time
- Amira Anshur: A Somali Educator in Toronto Breaking Barriers in Computer Sciences
- Somali Diaspora Success Across the World: Inspiring Belonging With Huge Achievement
- Who Supports Somalia Tech Revolution to Achieve More in the Next 10 Years?
Ramla Ali Inspires Somali People
Ali’s return to Mogadishu is more than ceremonial. It sends a powerful message to Somali youth that their dreams are valid and achievable.
Government officials have hinted at collaborating with her on sports initiatives to inspire the next generation.
Her journey from refugee to Olympic boxer embodies the resilience of Somalia itself—determined, ambitious, and ready to shine on the world stage.
Source: SONNA
