By Olivia Wells | Programs Director
Dear Friends and Supporters,
This month’s newsletter weaves together stories of resilience, empowerment, and community. From the launch of FYF's new Iraqi Female Changemakers project, empowering minority women across Iraq to lead in civic and political spaces, to our English Access students uplifting youth through sports and creativity at Essian IDP camp, each story is a testament to the power of individuals coming together for collective progress. We also celebrate the achievements of our first cohort of livelihoods graduates, equipped to build sustainable futures, and honor the Yezidi community’s Jama Feast at Lalish—a profound reminder of cultural strength and unity. Join us as we highlight these inspiring steps forward for women, youth, and minority communities in Iraq.
FYF LAUNCHES NEW IRAQI FEMALE CHANGEMAKERS PROJECT
We’re thrilled to announce the launch of FYF’s new initiative, Iraqi Female Changemakers, a transformative project spanning nine locations across Iraq and implemented with a consortium of female-led Iraqi NGOs, including Asuda for Combating Violence Against Women, Baghdad Women Association, and Al-Taqwa Association for Woman and Child Rights.
This project empowers women from religious and ethnic minority communities to become active in civic and political advocacy, working toward protective legislation on issues like SGBV, child marriage, and equal access to jobs and education.
Engaging local communities on key topics—such as the prevention of SGBV and child, marriage, women’s and minorities’ rights, and the importance of women’s civic engagement—this project aims to increase rights awareness and reporting of violations, and encourage positive community support for women’s political participation.
SPREADING JOY AT ESSIAN IDP CAMP
Our talented students from FYF's English Access Microscholarship Program are making a difference. Recently, they organized a special day full of sports, arts, and fun for the children at Essian IDP camp.
The students' community projects are all about uplifting and giving back to their fellow community members, bringing joy and creating positive experiences beyond camp life.
Together, we aim to support the children's mental well-being and provide a creative outlet where they can express themselves freely. Thank you to our amazing students for giving back in such a meaningful way!
CELEBRATING COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT THROUGH SPORTS
As part of our final community initiative in our English Access Microscholarship Program, our amazing students organized a sports day filled with fun activities for children and youth. This event aimed to uplift vulnerable members of the community by promoting teamwork, fitness, and joy through sports.
Our students have worked hard to create positive change, and we couldn’t be prouder of their dedication. Here’s to empowering our future leaders and making a lasting impact on the lives of others!
GRADUATION OF OUR FIRST COHORT OF LIVELIHOODS BENEFICIARIES
We are thrilled to celebrate the graduation of our first cohort of livelihoods beneficiaries from the project “Empowering Religious and Ethnic Minority (REM) Women in Iraq: Holistic Solutions for Sustainable Income Generation.”
After 2.5 months of hard work and dedication, 36 incredible women have completed vocational training in baking and crafts-making, along with courses in English language and financial literacy. This achievement marks a significant step toward sustainable income generation and empowerment for these talented women.
Join us in congratulating them on their achievements and supporting their journey towards a brighter future!
YEZIDIS GATHER AT LALISH TO CELEBRATE JAMA FEAST
Earlier this month, Yezidis gathered at the sacred Lalish Temple to celebrate Jama Feast, one of the oldest and most cherished Yezidi holidays. This week-long celebration unites Yezidis from around the world, featuring special rituals, festive meals, and traditional religious dances.
After being paused for years following the tragic Yezidi Genocide in 2014, Jama resumed in 2018, symbolizing the resilience and enduring spirit of the Yezidi community.
Join us in celebrating the revival of our traditions and the unity that defines our people!
Thank you for standing with us as we continue this vital work. Together, we are making a difference, one life at a time.
Sincerely,
Pari Ibrahim
Executive Director
Free Yezidi Foundation
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By Olivia Wells | Programs Director
By Olivia Wells | Programs Director
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