Finding a Safe Space in Syria: Hamida’s Story

For more than half of her life, Hamida has been exposed to the trauma, violence and instability of war. The 20-year-old, whose name has been changed to protect her identity, is one of 14.6 million people currently in need of humanitarian assistance due to the ongoing crisis in Syria.

Recognizing that women and girls often bear the brunt of conflict, Global Communities established a collection of safe spaces across northern parts of Syria to promote the protection, empowerment and psychological well-being of those who are most at risk of harm, exploitation or abuse. As a young woman with a physical disability, Hamida is among the most vulnerable groups in the country.

Through our protection programming, she has gained access to gender-based violence prevention and response services, life skills training, recreational activities, peer support and individualized assistance. In her own words, it has been “the ship that brought me to safety.”

Learn more about Hamida’s experience in this animated video, based on an essay she wrote during one of her psychosocial support activities with Global Communities.

This content is part of Future Forward, a thought leadership and storytelling series on how Global Communities is driving change to save lives, advance equity and secure strong futures. To learn more, visit globalcommunities.org/futureforward.