Mona's Story

I was born in 1979. I am 45 years old and live in Mosul city. I was widowed after losing my husband in a car crash. I  live at home with my three youngest children, and my eldest two daughters are married. After losing my husband, me and my children were left alone with very little support from my in-laws. My husband’s brother told me “my brother has passed away and now you and your family are now no longer my responsibility”.

I started to think about how I could earn an income to support myself and my children. I decided to use my basic sewing skills to work as a tailor for my relatives and neighbours. However, I was unable to generate enough income to support her family. My son started work as a taxi driver to support my family.

I isolated myself and was struggling with my mental health. I rarely left the house other than to purchase basic supplies. One day, my sister, Marwa, started talking to me about an organisation called Women for Women International and the services which they provided.

I was hesitant but made the decision to enrol in the Stronger Women, Stronger Nations programme.

It was the best decision I ever made.

Social empowerment classes have had a positive impact on my mental health. I have improved my communication skills and am enjoying sharing stories with other women, listening to others’ experiences, and learning how to deal with conflicts and challenges in everyday life in a healthy way. I have chosen to pursue sewing as her vocational track, building on the basic skills which I already have.

I dream of starting my own tailoring business after graduating. I hope that more women in my community have the chance to enrol in the programme and have the chance to make positive changes in their lives and do what they love through vocational training.