Nadia's Initiative Hosts Graduation for Participants in Pilot Programming at the Women's Center in Sinjar

Earlier this month, Nadia’s Initiative celebrated a significant milestone at the Women’s Center in Sinjar, hosting a graduation for the inaugural class of participants from the “Women’s Empowerment Through Education and Vocational Training” project. More than 120 women and girls successfully completed various courses at the Center, which opened earlier this year. The graduation ceremony honored 53 women from the literacy course, 27 high school girls from the basic computer course, 20 women from the salon training program, and 26 women from the sewing course.

This project was made possible through collaboration between Nadia’s Initiative and our trusted local partner, Sunrise NGO, and with the generous support of the L’Oreal Fund for Women. Each course empowered the participants with new skills, knowledge, and self-confidence. Those who completed the salon training gained hands-on experience in cosmetology, including makeup, hair styling, and nail care. To support their economic empowerment, these participants were provided with small business grants, which will help local women start up or expand their businesses.

The impact of these programs extends far beyond professional skills. For the women in the literacy course, learning to read and write was a transformative experience that fostered self-esteem and independence. One participant shared, “I no longer need to bring someone with me to the hospital to help me read the signs,” while another noted, “Now, when my children talk about their success, I truly understand the meaning of the word.” These stories highlight the profound impact of education on their lives, as well as the importance of the Center in creating an environment for personal growth, building friendships, and increasing their sense of belonging.

The Women’s Center has quickly become a transformational place for women and girls in the region, including survivors of ISIS captivity, offering them a safe place to heal, build relationships, and reclaim their lives. As we look to the future, Nadia’s Initiative is committed to expanding our programming to serve thousands more women in Sinjar, empowering them through education, livelihood support, mental health and psychosocial support, and capacity building in leadership and advocacy. In line with our community-driven and survivor-centric approach, these programs will continue to be driven by the most pressing needs of women in the local community. Together, we are building a brighter, more resilient future for Sinjar’s women and girls.