Forced to flee Syria, Jihan faced years of hardship and isolation in Iraq. Through Women for Women International’s adolescent girls’ program, she regained confidence, built new skills and now believes in a brighter future.
My name is Jihan Azad, and I am 17 years old. I live in Erbil in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) with my three siblings and parents. My problems began when the country I once called home, Syria, turned into a battlefield. I was in the third grade in school and really liked reading. We had a nice home with a garden that I loved so much, along with family and friends who made our social life enjoyable. One day, everything changed. We were forced to flee to Iraq to escape the gunfire and chaos back home. There was no time to carry our belongings or important documents; we just wanted to be safe.
When we arrived in Iraq in 2019, we encountered challenges finding a place to stay within a refugee camp. Unfortunately, we couldn’t secure a spot and had to rent a home in Erbil instead. This situation drove us to overwhelming economic difficulties, a language barrier, and a deep sense of social isolation. As the eldest child, I felt a heavy burden of responsibility on my shoulders. I stepped up to assist my mother with chores such as cleaning the house and washing dishes as she supported my sick father and younger siblings. It was heartbreaking not to be able to get legal documentation or continue my education during such a tough time in our lives.
In July 2024, my mother, who had participated in the Stronger Women, Stronger Nations program, told me about the adolescent girls’ program. At first, I was hesitant, but I saw it as an opportunity to change my life and decided to join.
I have been in the program for eight months now, and it has significantly changed my life. The supportive trainers and positive environment helped me reclaim my confidence and acquire valuable social and economic skills. Throughout the program, I learned about self-esteem, personal responsibility, and the importance of financial independence. I became more outgoing and developed a strong network of friends who uplifted and encouraged me. Most importantly, the sessions equipped me with the knowledge and confidence to guide my family on matters that had once felt out of reach for me. I had never imagined taking on such a role, but the experience gave me a newfound sense of purpose and improved my mental well-being.
After enduring years of psychological stress, including the loss of loved ones and my parents' struggles with illness, I gradually overcame the isolation. While my family sought medical and psychological support for my distress, it was the emotional support and empowerment I received through the WfWI program that I began my healing journey.
After several attempts to return to school, I lost hope, but I see a bright future ahead. I will obtain my documents one day and continue my studies. For now, I am filled with hope and ambition. I dream of becoming a successful salon owner and using the skills I have gained to build a business that will support my family. I now believe in myself and have a clear vision for my future. I am grateful for the opportunities that WfWI has provided me, and I encourage other girls to join the program to experience the same transformation. I am proof that girls can be hopeful and rebuild their lives with the proper support and opportunities. As I continue my journey, I remain committed to growing my skills, supporting my family, and inspiring other girls to take control of their futures.
