2013
A songwriter's start
Fiili's creative journey began as a songwriter, where his lyrics and storytelling resonated widely with audiences, earning more than 100 million views across digital and social media platforms. His early success in music laid the foundation for a distinctive narrative voice that would later shape his work in film.
2020
The transition to filmmaking
Driven by a passion for visual storytelling, Fiili transitioned into filmmaking after participating in intensive workshops organized by the Somali Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Somali Film Agency, and renowned Somali filmmaker Abdulkadir Ahmed Said. These programs introduced him to the language of cinema and inspired him to pursue filmmaking as both an artistic practice and a tool for cultural preservation.
2021
Doha Film Institute
Fiili further developed his craft through the Doha Film Institute's Screenwriting for Beginners program under the mentorship of Anthea Devotta and Amna Al-Binali. The training strengthened his approach to character-driven storytelling and screenplay development, equipping him to tell compelling stories rooted in Somali realities while engaging universal audiences.
2022
Arday
Fiili wrote the successful television drama series Arday, a project that established him as one of Somalia's emerging screenwriters. The series gained widespread popularity for its relatable characters and contemporary storytelling, further cementing his reputation within the country's growing creative industry.
2024
Hopeless
His directorial breakthrough came with the award-winning short film Hopeless, which he wrote and directed. The film screened at several international film festivals, earning recognition for its emotional depth, cinematic language, and honest portrayal of contemporary social issues.
2025
Barni
Fiili produced the feature film Barni, which premiered at the Red Sea International Film Festival before continuing its international festival journey with selections at the New York African Film Festival, the Saint Paul International Film Festival, the Locarno Film Festival, and Festival Cinémas d'Afrique Lausanne. The film further established his presence on the global festival circuit and reflected his commitment to championing Somali cinema on the international stage.
