Aisha, Qaali, and Sheikh’s Stories: Leading Change Through Community Protection
Asha Siidow lives in Deeq Rabbi Camp she is member of the Community Protection Group established by SWCCA with the support of SIHA NETWORK narrated before joining the Community Protection Group (CPG), I never imagined that my voice could make a difference. Coming from a minority background, I often felt unheard and unseen in my community. But everything changed when I was given the opportunity to be part of CPG.
As a woman from a marginalized background, I have faced many challenges that included limited access to education, cultural restrictions, and the constant fear of insecurity in my neighborhood. I grew up believing that women had little role in decision-making, and standing up for myself seemed impossible.
However, when I was recruited into the CPG, my perspective shifted. At first, I was hesitant and wondered if I could I really contribute and whether my voice would matter. But through the training and mentorship I received from SWCCA, I gained the confidence to take action. I learned about human rights, GBV prevention and response, Prevention of SEAH allegation, conflict resolution, and how to advocate for my community’s safety. More importantly, I learned that empowerment starts with believing in yourself. One of my proudest moments was helping a young girl escape a forced marriage. Because of my training, I was able to intervene, engage with local authorities, and ensure her right to education was protected. That day, I realized the true power of standing up not just for myself, but for others who needed support.
Being part of the CPG has transformed my life. I am no longer just a woman from a minority background; I am a leader, a protector, and a voice for change. My community now sees me as a role model, and I have inspired other women to join and take active roles in community protection. I want every woman to know that change is possible. No matter where you come from, you have the strength to make a difference. If I can do it, so can you. Together, we can build safer, stronger communities for all.
Supported by SIHA NETWORK
Qaali she is part of the Community Protection Group established by SWCCA with the support of SIHA NETWORK narrated her story.
In the heart of an internally displaced persons camp, Qaali’s, a young woman with a physical disability from a marginalized minority group, once struggled to find her place. Having fled conflict with her family, she faced not only displacement but also social exclusion due to her disability and ethnic background.
Opportunities were scarce, and her voice often went unheard. But when SWCCA introduced the Community Protection Group (CPG) initiative, Qaali saw a chance to change her circumstances and those of others like her. Despite initial doubts from the community about her abilities, she applied and was recruited into the CPG.
Through training on human rights, conflict resolution, and advocacy,Qaali grew in confidence. She became a key advocate for persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the camp, raising awareness about their rights and pushing for more inclusive policies. Her presence in the group challenged perceptions, proving that disability is not inability.
One of her most significant achievements was successfully advocating for accessible pathways within the camp, making movement easier for PWDs. She also facilitates dialogues between community leaders and displaced persons with disabilities, ensuring their voices are included in decision-making.
Qaali’s story is one of resilience and empowerment. From being marginalized to becoming a protector and advocate, she not only transformed her life but also inspired others to rise above their challenges. Today, she serves as a role model, showing that with opportunity and support; even the most vulnerable can become agents of change.
Real impact happening in the IDP camps
Sheikh Mohamed was a well-respected religious leader in his village, known for his wisdom and deep connection with the community. For years, he provided spiritual guidance, but he often felt helpless when it came to addressing the growing concerns of insecurity, displacement, and human rights violations affecting his people. Everything changed when he was invited to join the Community Protection Group (CPG) which is local initiative by SWCCA aimed at strengthening community resilience and promoting peace. Initially hesitant, Sheikh Mohamed soon realized the program offered much more than he had imagined.
Through CPG, Sheikh Mohamed received training in human rights, conflict resolution, mediation, and advocacy. He learned how to engage with local authorities, document cases of injustice, and peacefully resolve disputes among community members. The training also helped him recognize the importance of inclusive leadership, ensuring that women, youth, and marginalized groups had a voice in community affairs.
Armed with his newfound knowledge, Sheikh Mohamed became a bridge between the authorities and his community. He started organizing awareness sessions at the mosque, educating people about their rights and the importance of reporting violations. His credibility as a religious leader helped build trust, encouraging more community members to come forward with their concerns.
Under his leadership, the village is seeing a significant reduction in conflicts. Instead of violence, people sought mediation through the CPG. Cases of forced displacement and unlawful arrests were challenged through proper legal channels. Sheikh Ibrahim also collaborated with humanitarian organizations to bring aid to the most vulnerable, ensuring that displaced families received food, shelter, and medical assistance.
One of his greatest achievements is advocating for elimination of gender-based violence, dialogue with local leaders and security forces, to ensure IDPs and other marginalized group live with dignity and protection. After joining CPG, Sheikh Mohamed is not only a respected religious leader but also a champion of peace and human rights. His success has inspired other religious leaders to join CPGs, recognizing the power of community-led protection efforts. His story stands as a testament to how knowledge, collaboration, and leadership can transform a community from fear to empowerment.
By leveraging his influence and trusted position, he actively engaged in discussions, workshops, and outreach programs, ensuring that community members understood their rights and the available protection mechanisms. His inspiring journey of involvement in the project not only strengthened his leadership but also empowered his community to seek justice, access social services, and promote a safer environment for all. His commitment and dedication have transformed many lives, proving that awareness and collective action can drive meaningful change.