ISRAAC was originally founded in the early 1980s by Fathima Direa along with Ali Direa, a visionary community activities leader who recognised the need for a safe and welcoming space for Sheffield’s Somali and wider African communities.
Fathima dedicated many years to building ISRAAC from the ground up, often facing significant challenges and difficulties along the way. Through her determination, compassion, and tireless commitment, the organisation became a trusted place for advice, culture, and connection.
After Fathima’s retirement, the centre went through a difficult period and struggled to remain sustainable. However, the community’s strong belief in ISRAAC’s purpose inspired a new chapter. Local elders and community leaders came together, bringing renewed energy and direction.
Our members
The Heart of ISRAAC
ISRAAC is proud to have a close and dedicated group of over 60 founding members who represent the heart and spirit of our community.
Our members come from all walks of life, from single mothers and young families working hard to build a better future, to professionals including consultants, surgeons, professors, and entrepreneurs who generously contribute their time, knowledge, and resources to help the community thrive.
While many of our members have Somali heritage, our membership also reflects the diversity of Sheffield, with individuals from different backgrounds, regions, and experiences all united by one shared goal: to create a welcoming and inclusive community space for everyone.
Each member made a significant financial contribution, between £500 and £3,000, to help purchase the ISRAAC community building. Their collective generosity and vision created a safe haven and focal point for learning, connection, and cultural celebration.
We remain deeply grateful to every individual who contributed their hard-earned income for the good of the wider community. Their belief and investment have made ISRAAC what it is today, a lasting symbol of unity, resilience, and shared purpose.
Our members maintain a close relationship with one another and with the organisation. We meet informally throughout the year, especially during festive periods and the month of fasting, to celebrate, reflect, and strengthen community bonds. A formal Annual General Meeting (AGM) is held once a year to review our progress and ensure members’ voices guide ISRAAC’s continued development.
Please note that membership is currently closed, and we are not accepting new members at this time. This ensures we honour the founding group’s commitment and maintain the close, trusted relationships that underpin our organisation’s success.
Continuing the Vision
ISRAAC continues to build on the strong foundation laid by its founders, Fathima and Ali Direa, and the generosity of our founding members who made their dream a reality. What began as a small community initiative has grown into a thriving, inclusive centre that serves as a bridge between generations and cultures.
Today, ISRAAC stands as a proud example of how collective effort and shared values can transform lives. We remain committed to honouring the vision of our founders by opening our doors to the wider community through a wide range of programmes, cultural events, educational workshops, and strategic partnerships that promote inclusion, empowerment, and wellbeing.
Our work focuses on supporting individuals and families to learn new skills, access advice and opportunities, improve physical and mental wellbeing, and celebrate cultural identity. Through collaboration with local organisations, schools, health services, and Sheffield City Council, we continue to play an active role in building a fairer, healthier, and more connected city.
At the heart of everything we do is the belief that community is built on compassion, respect, and shared purpose. Together, we aim to celebrate our heritage, nurture belonging, and strengthen unity across Sheffield and beyond, ensuring that ISRAAC remains a source of pride, support, and inspiration for generations to come.
