"Maandeeq: A Collection of Somali Poetry" Available Here!
The Gaas Collective is excited to announce that "MAANDEEQ" is officially available fot purchase! This special anthology features poetry from Somali poets from all over the world, and it celebrates Somali culture, resilience, and creativity. The collection is named "Maandeeq"—the revered she-camel symbolizing completion, blessings, unity, and abundance in Somali tradition.
It is a historic collection of poetry, the first ever diasporic compilation of Somali works, featuring poetry from all over the world. We invite you to celebrate this historic collection with us, and purchase your copy here! Your purchase of this book helps us on our mission of elevating the creative voices of those who too often go unheard. Buy your copy today and take an inside look on the global experiences of Somali poets, a people who hail from the nation of poets.
We would like to extend our gratitude to all of the poets who shared their work in this book, your words shaped this collection and have the power to shape the world. And we would like to thank our cover artist Wasima Farah, who brilliantly captured the feeling of this book in her art.
Thank you for your continued support. Buy your copy of Maandeeq Here!
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Welcome to The Gaas Collective!
We are a nonprofit publishing platform and curated space for creative writing—a home for literature and expression rooted in identity, resistance, and remembrance. Our mission is to celebrate and elevate powerful storytelling, with a special focus on Somali poets and writers whose work draws from rich oral and poetic traditions.
Our mission is to preserve and evolve the art of storytelling as practiced by our elders and reimagined by our generation. Through poetry, we honor different cultures, hold space for truth, and uplift narratives that deserve to be heard. By curating and sharing these voices, we’re not only creating space—we’re building an archive. An evolving record of stories, truths, and dreams that deserve to be remembered.
We believe in the power of language to preserve culture, spark connection, and inspire change. Through curated features and creative collaborations, we’re building a space where art meets purpose, and where every voice has the chance to resonate. We invite you to submit your work and become part of our growing community of published writers, where your voice can be heard and your stories celebrated.
Spotlight Poem
Each week, The Gaas Collective features a powerful new poem from a member of our creative community. The Spotlight Poem is our way of uplifting diverse voices and celebrating the depth, emotion, and artistry found in poetry today. From reflections on identity and belonging to expressions of love, loss, or resistance—these poems speak to the heart of our mission.
We especially welcome and encourage Somali poets—from the diaspora and back home—to share their stories, rhythms, and truths with the world, in English or Somali. Every feature is paired with a short performance video shared across our social media platforms, honoring both the tradition of oral poetry in Somali culture that brings the written word to life, and the talented voices behind the work.
Want to be featured? Send us your work to be reviewed—your words could be next in the spotlight.
This week's Spotlight Poem is:
Submission Guidlines
The Gaas Collective is dedicated to highlighting storytelling, poetry, and art. We welcome submissions from all writers, poets, and artists. Artists who seek to share their voices, preserve their heritage, and join a collective of published writers contributing to an enduring archive of creative expression.
What We Accept
We are currently accepting submissions in the following categories:
Poetry – Any style, including free verse, spoken word, and traditional forms.
Short Stories – Fiction or flash fiction (up to 3,000 words).
Essays – Personal, cultural, and critical analysis.
Submission Requirements
Format: Submit written work in DOCX or PDF format.
Language: Submissions are accepted in Somali and English.
Length: Short stories and essays should not exceed 3,000 words. Poetry has no strict word limit.
Quantity: You may submit up to 3 poems, 1 short story, or 1 essay per submission cycle.
How to Submit
Send your submission via form link.
Include the following in your form:
Your full name
Your completed piece with its title
A short bio (50-100 words)
Your social media handles (optional)
Review Process
Submissions are carefully curated, and we aim to respond within 1-2 weeks. Due to high volumes, we may not be able to respond to every submission individually. If your work is selected, we will notify you by email.
Questions?
For inquiries, feel free to contact us via email, thegaascollective@gmail.com, or by using the inquiry form below.
We look forward to reading your work and sharing it with the world. Thank you for being part of The Gaas Collective!
About The Gaas Collective
Founded by Najib Abbi, The Gaas Collective is a nonprofit publishing platform dedicated to amplifying voices through poetry, short stories, and essays. We believe in the power of storytelling to inspire, challenge, and connect. With a vision of fostering a space for raw, thought-provoking, and boundary-pushing creative expression, The Gaas Collective curates and publishes exceptional works from emerging and established artists alike. Our mission is to showcase diverse perspectives and build a literary community where creativity thrives.
The Gaas Collective is especially committed to highlighting Somali writers and artists, celebrating the richness of Somali storytelling, poetry, and art. Our goal is to create a platform where Somali creatives can share their voices, honor their heritage, and inspire future generations while building an enduring archive of Somali literature and artistic expression.
We welcome submissions from writers and artists of all backgrounds, embracing any work that is bold, honest, and impactful. If you have a story to tell, a poem to share, or an idea that speaks volumes, we invite you to be part of The Gaas Collective.
Let your voice be heard. Let your art be seen.
Get In Touch!
Feel free to reach out to us for any inquiries or collaborations. Kindly leave your name, email, and as detailed of a message as possible. Thank you!