20 Syrian Young Women Complete “Returnees: Decision and Strength” Program Implemented by SOS Children’s Villages Jordan in Partn
Irbid — SOS Children’s Villages Jordan, in partnership with Al-Shalloul Taekwondo Club and the Lutheran World Federation, concluded a specialized training program targeting 20 Syrian young women aged 18 to 30, as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign. This edition of the program aimed to enhance the readiness of women and girls returning to Syria and empower them to reclaim leadership roles within their communities.
The program, titled “Returnees: Decision and Strength,” was designed as a space to equip young women with both knowledge and practical tools, strengthen their self-confidence, and expand their capacity to actively contribute to strengthening social and community cohesion. It is grounded in a vision centered on leadership, empowerment, protection, and the development of community initiatives.
Over five intensive training days, participants engaged in four key modules that together formed a comprehensive learning journey:
Awareness of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 (Women, Peace, and Security):
Building a deeper understanding of women’s roles in protection, peacebuilding, and reconstruction.
Social Entrepreneurship:
Participants developed four community initiatives ready for implementation upon their return.
Practical Self-Defense Training and Nutrition Program:
Conducted under the supervision of coach Osama Al-Shalloul, focusing on building confidence and strengthening personal protection skills.
Advocacy and Campaigning Skills:
Empowering participants to lead change and effectively voice their issues.
The program witnessed strong engagement and interaction from the participants, who demonstrated clear commitment and a strong desire to develop new skills. By the end of the training, each group presented innovative community intervention plans outlining practical steps for their future contributions within their communities.
SOS Children’s Villages Jordan emphasized that this program aligns with regional and international efforts to support returning women and enhance their participation in reconstruction, noting that women’s empowerment is a fundamental pillar in building more cohesive and stable societies.
Implementation partners also highlighted that the program went beyond theoretical knowledge, offering a practical space to refine participants’ entrepreneurial mindset and strengthen their psychological and social readiness—enabling them to confidently take on the community roles they aspire to after returning.
The “Returnees: Decision and Strength” program stands as an effective model of collaboration between local and international organizations, where empowerment meets knowledge and protection, positioning women as key partners in social and economic recovery.
