About Us

Learn about our mission, values, and the community we serve

Our Mission

The Center of Excellence is dedicated to empowering individuals and families from diverse backgrounds, particularly those from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities in Barnet and surrounding areas.

We provide accessible services, educational opportunities, and community support that promotes integration, personal development, and social cohesion. Our approach is holistic, addressing not just immediate needs but also long-term empowerment and self-sufficiency.

We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their background, language, or life experience. Through our programs and services, we work to break down barriers and create pathways to success for all community members.

Our Core Values

These values guide everything we do and shape how we serve our community.

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Compassion

We approach every interaction with empathy, understanding, and genuine care for others.

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Inclusion

We welcome everyone and celebrate the diversity that makes our community strong.

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Excellence

We strive for the highest standards in all our programs and services.

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Community

We believe in the power of community and work to strengthen connections between people.

Our Story

Founded in 2022, the Centre of Excellence was born from the vision of co-founder Abdul Qadir Ali (AQ), a Somali-born refugee and transformational coach with a lifelong mission to support marginalised communities. Having experienced the trauma of conflict and displacement firsthand, AQ channelled his journey of healing into creating a safe, empowering space for others.

Driven by empathy and cultural understanding, AQ’s approach is rooted in lived experience. His passion for working with Black men and boys, helping them reclaim confidence, purpose, and success on their own terms, has deeply shaped the Centre’s ethos.

What began as a response to personal and collective struggles has grown into a trusted, community-led hub that welcomes people as they are. The Centre offers more than just services — it provides dignity, belonging, and hope.

Whether it’s through one-to-one coaching, workshops, or group programmes, the Centre is committed to uplifting those who often go unheard. Every initiative reflects AQ’s belief that healing begins with being seen, and transformation starts when people are supported to rise.

Our Leadership Team

Meet the dedicated professionals who lead our organisation and drive our mission forward.

Hawa Abdi

Co-Founder & Director

Hawa has led innovative community programmes that break down barriers to education, mental health support, and employment.

Abdul Qadir Ali (AQ)

Co-Founder & Director

Rooted in lived experience, AQ’s empathetic approach focuses on helping Black men and boys reclaim confidence, purpose, and self-defined success — shaping the Centre’s core values.