Introduction:
To mark International Women’s Day on March 8th, the Better World Organization, in collaboration with partners such as Coardiad, the Women High Consul in Erbil, SoS Kinderdorf Organization, and UNFPA Iraq, orchestrated a gathering. The primary aim was to empower women, encourage community involvement, and recognize women’s invaluable contributions to society. The event comprised a dedicated marketplace solely for female entrepreneurs, offering them a platform to exhibit their small businesses and bolster economic empowerment. Additionally, a lively Kurdish cultural festival was hosted, providing attendees with an immersive experience encompassing music, comedy, traditional games, and cuisine. Environmental awareness was also integrated into the festivities through activities like tree planting, fostering a welcoming atmosphere for families. As we ponder on this event, we reaffirm our commitment to advancing women’s empowerment and fostering stronger community bonds.
Agenda of the Festival
• Opening Remarks and Speeches
• Kurdish Floklor Song
• Stand Up Comedy
• Kurdish Daff Group
• Music Group
• Opening Women Bazar
• Open space for fun family games/
• Kurdish Folklore games from
• In addition to the Planting activity
• during open space activities
Event Highlights:
• Empowering Women Entrepreneurs
• Cultural Experience:
• Environmental Consciousness
• Community Engagement
The event started with excitement and energy, with speeches that got everyone excited and set the tone for a day of celebration and empowerment. Attendees were welcomed with uplifting Kurdish Folklor songs, which not only entertained but also made everyone feel proud of their culture and brought them together. These songs highlighted the beauty of Kurdish heritage, fostering a sense of unity among participants.
A notable highlight of the event was the exclusive Bazaar designed specifically for women entrepreneurs. This unique marketplace provided these enterprising women with a dedicated platform to showcase their diverse range of small businesses and products. By offering them this special space, the initiative aimed to bolster economic empowerment among women by enhancing their visibility and creating opportunities for business expansion.
The Bazaar served as more than just a marketplace; it symbolized a supportive community where women could network, collaborate, and thrive. It encouraged the exchange of ideas and experiences, fostering a sense of solidarity among female entrepreneurs. Additionally, the presence of various businesses in the Bazaar created a vibrant atmosphere, attracting attendees and generating interest in women-led enterprises.
Furthermore, the Bazaar played a crucial role in challenging traditional gender norms and stereotypes surrounding entrepreneurship. By highlighting the talents and achievements of women in business, it promoted a more inclusive and diverse representation within the entrepreneurial landscape. This not only empowered individual women but also contributed to broader societal shifts towards gender equality and economic inclusivity.
As the day progressed, attendees were treated to a vibrant Kurdish folk festival, featuring performances of traditional music, engaging stand-up comedy, and exhilarating displays by the Kurdish Daff Group and Music Group. These cultural showcases offered attendees a rich and immersive experience, fostering appreciation for Kurdish heritage and traditions.
In addition to the vibrant cultural festivities, the event took a thoughtful approach to environmental consciousness by integrating activities focused on environmental conservation, such as planting trees and plants. Participants enthusiastically joined in these hands-on efforts, showcasing their commitment to sustainable practices and emphasizing the crucial role of environmental stewardship in preserving the health of our planet. By incorporating these eco-friendly initiatives into the event, organizers aimed to raise awareness about the importance of sustainability and inspire individuals to take proactive steps towards protecting our natural environment. This emphasis on environmental responsibility served as a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness between human actions and the health of our planet, reinforcing the collective responsibility we share in ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
The event also provided ample opportunities for community engagement, with open spaces for fun family games and Kurdish folklore games. These activities encouraged interaction and camaraderie among attendees, fostering a sense of unity and belonging within the community.
In reflection, the International Women’s Day celebration was a testament to the power of collaboration and collective action in advancing women’s empowerment and promoting community cohesion. As we look towards the future, we reaffirm our commitment to championing the rights and contributions of women, creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
