LocationsIsraa Kareem: a warrior's journey from illness to leadership
December 8, 2024
A Life Defined by Resilience
At 35, Israa Kareem has become a symbol of resilience and hope in Diyala. A nurse, mother of two, and a cancer survivor, she embodies the transformative power of determination and support. Her story highlights how adversity, when met with the right tools and training, can be transformed into an opportunity to lead and inspire others.
Battling the Dual Challenges of Illness and Responsibility
In 2019, Israa was diagnosed with stomach cancer, an illness that brought physical pain and emotional anguish. Her journey through chemotherapy and multiple surgeries was further complicated by the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Balancing her demanding role as a healthcare worker and a caregiver for her family became an almost insurmountable task. Yet, she persevered, holding onto hope despite the hardships.
A Transformative Opportunity
Amid her recovery, Israa encountered a life-changing opportunity through the UNDP’s “Strengthening the Role of Women Leaders in Community Development” training. This initiative, part of the Building Resilience Through Employment Promotion programme supported by Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the German Development Bank KfW, provided women like Israa with the leadership skills needed to make a difference in their communities.
From Survivor to Leader
The training became a turning point in Israa's life. It helped her regain her self-confidence, harness her inner strength, and develop practical skills to manage her responsibilities more effectively. More importantly, it gave her a new purpose—empowering others facing similar struggles. “The course taught me patience and strength,” she reflected, noting how it equipped her to support others with compassion and resilience.
Inspiring Hope and Strength in Her Community
Israa now shares her journey with patients battling cancer, offering them hope and encouragement. In her role as a nurse, she inspires patients to confront their illnesses with determination, and her story serves as a powerful example of what is possible when strength and support converge. The leadership skills she gained from UNDP’s training have allowed her to extend her impact beyond her family and patients, fostering a sense of hope and resilience throughout her community.
The Broader Impact of Empowerment Initiatives
Her achievements are a testament to the vital role that targeted training programs play in empowering women in Iraq. By enhancing leadership skills and building resilience, these initiatives not only transform individual lives but also strengthen communities, paving the way for sustainable development.
A Vision for a Brighter Future
Thanks to the steadfast efforts of its partners, UNDP continues to provide these vital opportunities, helping individuals like Israa turn personal challenges into stories of leadership and inspiration. Her journey exemplifies the transformative potential of resilience and empowerment in the face of adversity.
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