Words of wisdom
Women survivors of war share their wisdom, hope and courage
Despite living in the most dangerous places on Earth, the women we serve band together in sisterhood and hold onto hope – a true act of courage and defiance
Between 2019 and 2022, nearly 40% of countries – home to over 1.1. billion women and girls in 2022 – stagnated or declined on gender equality.
With this global rollback of women’s rights, political polarisation, international aid cuts and the escalation of conflicts, the news provides a constant barrage of devastating images and negative statistics. It’s no wonder many of us feel angry and hopeless.
- Afghanistan is a country where women face growing restrictions on their lives – and have done since August 2021. In the latest Women, Peace and Security Index, it ranked worst of 177 countries for women.
- Recent escalations of violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo have forced us to pause programming for the safety of our team and the women we serve – while many of them have fled to protect their lives and families.
- In Palestine, amidst the fragile ceasefire in Gaza women are returning home to rubble and ruins while the deadly raids continue in the West Bank.
- For years, people in Nigeria have faced abductions, corruption and community violence, where deeply entrenched and restrictive gender norms are the status quo.
Tragically, this list could go on and on.
And yet, the women we work with in some of the most dangerous places on Earth refuse to give up hope. It’s extraordinary.
We asked women in our global team and programmes how they stay hopeful. Here is their advice:
Get ready for challenging times and recognise that each tough day will eventually end and won't last forever.
Always believe in yourself and your abilities, stay hopeful for the future and remember that the strength and unity of women contribute to the foundation of a strong nation.
Be encouraged and calm, knowing that there is light after every dark tunnel. You should remain hopeful, expand your networks, keep your families close and be prayerful.
A woman's power lies in her awareness, courage and resilience. No obstacle can be greater than a woman's will.
You are a pillar and a source of life for your family. Your presence means so much to them. It symbolises hope, happiness and safety. Do not underestimate your abilities, for life goes on.
Learn and strive. Start your project. Learn any profession. Even if you fail once or twice, you can try again. And you can also raise the voices of other women.
Jozela
subtitle:
"With the support and encouragement from the incredible women in my class and our trainers, I’ve discovered how to start my own business, save money with a savings group, and, most importantly, build my confidence."
Ida
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"I am witnessing a significant change in my community. More women are bravely stepping forward to report injustices and fight for their rights."
Mary
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"This newfound awareness has empowered me to advocate more effectively for myself and others, ensuring that our voices are heard and our needs are met. The training has not only boosted my confidence but also fostered a stronger sense of togetherness with my group sisters, reinforcing the importance of solidarity in the fight for disability rights."