With a shortage of public spaces for displaced women and girls to gather, as well as a lack of employment opportunities, it can be incredibly difficult for them to rebuild their lives. Our Baking Sisters initiative increases women’s capacity-building, skills development, financial independence as well as their self-confidence.
The project is managed and operated by the women themselves – with the initial equipment, structures, capital goods and raw ingredients provided by the Lotus Flower. As well as retaining any profits as an income and furthering their cooking skills, the project enables the women to gain vital business knowledge which they can use to develop their future careers.
Vitally, this extensive community space helps foster relationships, confidence and community spirit. The project is also supported by leading British chef and restaurateur Asma Khan, who helped us launch the project at Essyan camp – as you can see in this video.
Photo Credit: Asma Khan, @asmakhanlondon
CASE STUDY
Suad is a Syrian refugee and a survivor of domestic violence. As a single mother she struggled to provide for her four children, which affected her mental health. After receiving psychological support from the Lotus Flower, she was also selected to take part in Baking Sisters, and says: “Now I help run the Lotus Flower Bakery, so I can provide for my children. Spending time with other women and girls has been very beneficial. I am much stronger now, and feel happier as I can support my kids.”