Sisters' Stories: Iman’s journey to self-confidence and new opportunity

Every week, our ‘Sisters’ Stories’ series shines a spotlight on one extraordinary woman who we support through our range of on-the-ground projects.

The latest inspirational woman to tell you about is Iman, who comes from Duhok. She first got involved with the Lotus Flower earlier this year when a friend encouraged her to take part in our inaugural Peace Sisters project.

As part of this groundbreaking programme, 50 women and girls are learning skills in peacebuilding, mediation and conflict resolution, in order to help restore harmony across fractured communities. After attending seven Peace Sisters training sessions, Iman got the chance to help lead the workshops for other community members – an experience she found hugely rewarding.

“I have learned so much by taking part in this project, and it has helped me interact and socialise with lots of people from different religions and social backgrounds,” says Iman. “I also developed the ability to express my opinions in class – even though that has always seemed scary before. I also got rid of the fear of being on stage and giving presentations, which gave me more confidence in myself.” 

The Peace Sisters project, in partnership with the German Consulate in Erbil, includes skills in leadership, critical thinking and communications, as well as negotiation and integration, plus self-esteem issues and social rehabilitation. One of the first known schemes to focus on women becoming mediators and active community leaders in this way, it targets men and women in camps and host communities, as well as religious leaders, civil society organisations and NGO representatives.

Iman adds: “Above all, I had a lot of fun doing this project, and it showed me how bringing change must start with ourselves. I hope the Lotus Flower continues doing activities and projects like this to help others develop their skills, and share in such a positive atmosphere.”

For Iman, the skills she learned through Peace Sisters has led to an exciting new chapter, as she is now working as an English teacher on our Men and Boys Trauma project. As part of this programme, we are working with Khaima to support 30 men and boys through activities such as psychological counselling, art therapy and recreational activities, as well as the English classes which Iman is proudly delivering.

Now that’s a story of personal growth we can all aspire to…