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Remembering Ismael Ahmed

✇WDET 101.9 FM
WDET Digital Team

Our friend, colleague, and one of Detroit’s great connectors

We’re deeply saddened to share the news of the passing of Ismael Ahmed on January 31st, the longtime host of This Island Earth and a beloved voice on WDET. Ismael was more than a broadcaster — he was a tireless advocate for culture, community, and justice, and his work touched generations across Detroit and beyond.

That same commitment carried into every part of his life. Ismael devoted his life to public service and advocacy, working as a labor organizer and activist and later serving as director of the Michigan Department of Human Services during Governor Jennifer Granholm’s administration. His leadership and commitment to the arts were recognized nationally when President Joe Biden appointed him to the National Council on the Arts.

In Detroit, Ismael’s legacy is inseparable from the Concert of Colors, which he founded 35 years ago. What began as a bold vision grew into a beloved institution celebrating cultural diversity, artistic excellence, and accessibility, bringing communities together through music and performance.

Ismael saw music not simply as entertainment, but as a bridge between people, cultures, and ideas. That belief guided his work, his advocacy, and his relationships. His voice and spirit helped shape Detroit’s cultural landscape, and his impact will be felt for generations.

We extend our deepest condolences to Ismael’s family, friends, collaborators, and to the many listeners who found inspiration and connection through his work. We are grateful to have been part of the community he nurtured so thoughtfully.

A Celebration of Life for Ismael Ahmed will take place during the 35th Annual Concert of Colors, July 15-19, 2026.

Share your memories

WDET will honor Ismael on air in the coming days. We invite you to share your memories and reflections through the online form below or by emailing wdetdigital@wdet.org. You may also leave a voice message through the WDET app on your phone by tapping “Open Mic” in the bottom right corner of your screen.

Condolences and tributes to Ismael Ahmed

“His voice will forever echo in my mind, in my heart, and through my soul.”
Cary Heller
"A loss of this magnitude could only have been preceded by the amazing legacy Ismael built in his lifetime."
Mark Dwyer
"Thank you, Ismael for introducing us to such a variety of world music, you are irreplaceable."
Ewa Kedzierska
“We are truly sad and so very sorry for the loss of him in this world.”
Robin and Paul Satryb
"Some people build walls. Ish built bridges."
Vic Doucette
"This Island Earth is an important weekend ritual in our house. So much impromptu dancing breaks out in our living room!Ismael, thank you for all the happiness you brought to our lives. We will miss you so much..💔"
Jennifer & Mark Beres
"Sending my love to all who will miss his physical presence. Mr. Ahmed was incredibly kind, and the legacy he leaves behind is truly impressive."
Angela Lugo-Thomas
"May Ishmael rest in peace and may those who miss him be comforted by all that he gave us."
Sarah Custack
"This one really hurts. I will miss, you my friend. Thanks for everything."
Robert Buttery
"Our wishes are for peace and comfort to his family and all who enjoyed Ish and his beaming smile."
Al Cholger & Maureen Sheahan
"This is such a shock!!! This man who brought world music to my life. The Concert of Colors. I will miss him dearly. "
Tracy Mobley
"Ismael has a way with words that stick with you, and he truly encourages you to think about the big picture of love and humanity."
Nick T.
I’m really saddened to hear of Ismael Ahmed’s passing. The Detroit community will not be the same without his unique voice. My deepest sympathies to his family and colleagues.
Charlotte
"Every week, throughout a long and particularly hard period of my life, Ishmael’s programming eased my sorrow. Bless him."
Deborah Hefka
"I can’t begin to tell you how devastated I am about the passing of Ishmael...Rest in peace, Ismael. You will be truly missed. My heart goes out to his family and friends."
Denise LaChance
The world just became a much grayer, quieter, and sadder place. Ismael Ahmed brought so much joy and hope with his show This Island Earth was a weekly ray of sunshine. I will truly miss Ismael’s kind voice and wonderful reminders that we planetary citizens are all brothers and sisters.
Agneta Buccellato
What always struck me most was his gentle kindness. A beloved friend and champion of countless people, communities, and cultures, he will be deeply, deeply missed.
Kate Levin Markel
"My condolences to the family. Ish was the greatest at reminded us to take care of each other. His contribution to society was special and his music program was 1 of a kind! Always superior!"
Terry K
“I loved Ismael Ahmed for bringing great, international music to listeners (I was a regular) of ‘This Island Earth’ and Concert of Colors concertgoers.”
Steve Gutterman
“I especially cherished Saturday evenings at home listening to Ismael Ahmed spin global tunes.”
John DoeThomas Matich
"What a loss for Detroiters! I always heard the kindness and gentleness of his soul. He signed off each show, “This Island Earth,” with a beautiful message: “Remember, we are all brothers and sisters on this island Earth.”
Beth Montalvo
"All of us planetary citizens are better for having known him. "
Heidi Schultz

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