Life Skills Training: Ghazal’s Journey From Uncertainty to Purpose

In Sinjar, where years of conflict and displacement have shaped the lives of many young people, rebuilding a sense of direction can feel like an uphill journey. Yet, for some, a single opportunity can become the first step toward a more hopeful future.

Through the Nexus Accelerator Fund (NAF) Project, World Vision Iraq organised Life Skills Training in Sinjar District, Ninewa Governorate. Taking place over eight days, it brought together 34 young women and men aged 18–29. Designed to go beyond traditional learning, the training focused on strengthening communication, emotional regulation, time management, teamwork, and decision-making, while also promoting mental health awareness, resilience, and future planning.

Among the participants was 26-year-old Ghazal, whose quiet determination and openness to growth quickly made her story stand out.

Born and raised in a village near Sinjar, Ghazal’s life, like many others in the area, was disrupted by conflict and displacement. After years of uncertainty, her family returned and settled in the Al-Nasr neighbourhood. Today, she describes herself as an active young woman who enjoys field activities, photography, and learning English.

But things were not always this clear for Ghazal. “Before the training, I didn’t have a job and my time was not organised,” Ghazal shares. “My days felt irregular, and I didn’t have a clear plan.”

When World Vision volunteers introduced the Life Skills training in her community, Ghazal didn’t hesitate: “I felt this was exactly what I needed. I wanted to participate.”

Over the eight days, Ghazal immersed herself in discussions, group exercises, and self-reflection activities that helped her better understand her strengths, challenges, and aspirations. One of the most transformative lessons for her was learning how to set priorities and manage her time.

“After the training, my time became organised, and I decided to study English more seriously,” she says.

For Ghazal, learning English had always been both a dream and a challenge. At times, it brought frustration, but the training helped her reframe that challenge.

“English used to frustrate me, but now I see it as both a weakness and a strength. It motivates me to improve and keep going.”

Beyond practical skills, the experience helped Ghazal reconnect with something deeper, her confidence and sense of purpose.

“Many things became clearer for me, and now I have a good plan to achieve my goals,” she explains. “I can communicate better, and I understand myself more.”

She also highlights the emotional impact of the training: “This course supported me psychologically. It helped me discover what makes me feel comfortable and gave me a better understanding of who I am.”

Today, Ghazal moves forward with a renewed sense of clarity and confidence, taking steady steps toward the future she envisions. “Every step I take forward makes me feel proud,” she says with a smile.

Inspired by her journey, Ghazal now shares what she learned with friends and encourages other young people in her community to seek similar opportunities.

“Do not stay discouraged. Have hope, there is a solution for everything. Trainings like this can truly make a difference.”

The Life Skills Training was more than just a course, it was a turning point for Ghazal. It helped her organise her life, rediscover her confidence, and set a clear path forward.

Her story is a powerful reminder that when young people are given the right support and opportunities, they can rebuild not only their skills, but also their hope.

Through the Nexus Accelerator Fund (NAF) Project, World Vision Iraq is continuing to invest in youth across Sinjar, helping them strengthen their resilience, unlock their potential, and take confident steps toward a brighter future for themselves and their communities.