'Every Challenge is an Opportunity to Learn and Grow'

“The support I received was the light that illuminated my path.” With these words, 29-year-old Alaa Rifqi from Baaj in Ninewa captures the turning point that transformed his life.

Alaa has lived in Baaj since childhood, surrounded by a community and environment that shaped his values and worldview. Yet despite this foundation, his days often felt unstructured and unproductive.

“My day passed without a clear plan,” he recalls. “I spent hours on my phone, moved between random tasks, and by evening, I realised I hadn’t achieved anything new.”

He struggled with habits that were hard to break, making decisions under stress, and not communicating effectively with others. At times, these challenges left him frustrated, but never defeated.

“I felt frustrated,” Alaa says, “But I learned to overcome it and continue my path with greater strength.”

Everything changed when Alaa joined the five-day vocational and life-skills training delivered by World Vision through the Nexus Accelerator Fund (NAF) project.

Held from 23–27 February 2025 in partnership with the Vocational Training Centers (VTCs) in Ninewa, the programme brought together 80 youth, including 45 persons with disabilities or caregivers.

Through practical, interactive modules, ranging from emotional intelligence and communication to critical thinking, problem-solving, and structured decision-making, participants strengthened both their employability and their confidence.

Activities such as role-plays, group discussions, and storytelling helped them apply what they learned in real-life situations.

The training not only built individual skills, but contributed to stronger community resilience, linking youth, women, and people with disabilities to local vocational systems and better livelihood opportunities.

A New Chapter Begins

For Alaa, the impact was immediate and life-changing. “My life has changed for the better. I now have the ability to handle all challenges,” he says.

He now organises his days, manages stress calmly, makes decisions with confidence, and builds healthier relationships. “I have a daily schedule to organise my life, complete tasks, and build new personal relationships,” he explains.

Growing Beyond Himself

The training also deepened Alaa’s understanding of education, life skills, and social participation. It improved the way he interacts with family, friends, and community members.

“I felt proud when I noticed my life changing for the better as a result of my efforts and ongoing support,” he shares.

Alaa still faces challenges, balancing responsibilities, managing pressure, and regulating emotions, but he now approaches them with clarity and determination.

He sets priorities, breaks tasks down, uses communication skills to resolve conflicts, and takes short breaks to stay calm and focused.

His dreams for the future are simple yet powerful: to continue developing himself, build strong personal and professional relationships, and leave a positive impact on those around him.

His advice to others is both practical and inspiring: “Do not give up or despair. Every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow. Organise your time, develop your skills, and trust that consistent effort will lead to achieving your goals.”