Yezidi Women Challenge Cultural Norms Through Economic Engagement
Hanan is a 21 year old displaced Yezidi woman who is a café worker at FYF’s Sugar is Sweet Bakery and Café. She reflects on the progress of Yezidi women in the aftermath of the genocide:
“Before the genocide, I was living a simple and peaceful life with my family in Tel Qasab, Sinjar. I had no worries and didn’t know what real fear was. In 2014, I experienced real fear when ISIS attacked Sinjar and my family fled to Khanke IDP camp. The genocide destroyed our mental wellbeing, which continues to be challenged in the camps where we live in a state of constant insecurity.
As we only had my father to provide for our family through his unemployment salary, I wanted to gain more skills and find a job to support my family. I joined several courses at FYF’s Enterprise and Training Center (ETC), including sewing, knitting, baking, and music. I first became an artisan and made Chonky Animals®. Then, I was given the opportunity to work as a cafe worker at the Sugar is Sweet Bakery and Cafe. My work enables me to earn an income and support my family and younger siblings.
I personally believe that women, especially Yezidi women, have progressed a lot after the genocide, as they are now working equally alongside men. Women are really strong and essential to any community’s growth. I think that FYF has contributed to improving many women’s lives through its services and support.”
