Empowering Women in Sinjar's Agricultural Sector

Like many families in Sinjar before the 2014 genocide, Qaison and her husband lived a peaceful life, earning an income primarily from agricultural activities.

“When ISIS invaded Sinjar, we fled to Sinjar Mountain and then to the camps in Kurdistan region. We stayed in Kadiya camp for about six years. The living situation was extremely difficult in the camp.”

While in the camps, Qaison’s husband passed away from cancer. Her financial situation was severely impacted by her husband's death, as she could not support her two children. She decided to return to her hometown in order to provide a better future for her children. With limited financial resources, she grew a small portion of her land in order to make a decent living.

Nadia's Initiative and implementing partner Mission East contacted Qaison to include her in their second women’s small business incubator and reestablish her livelihoods.

“Now I can grow a larger area in the agricultural land, including the greenhouse… I mentally and physically feel much better than before.”

Due to Qaison’s determination and work ethic, she is ensuring her children can continue their studies uninterrupted.

“My message to all women would be to rise and rely on themselves to get a source of living for themselves and their family.”