As part of the FTN II project, under the framework of the Community Mobilizing Programme, community activists aim to make a positive change for their communities. The community activists of RDFL supported the working group "الايادي البيضاء" (White Hands) in developing the FTN II community project into a centre aimed at supporting and empowering women in the Al Solh neighbourhood of Baalbek by providing a safe space where they can acquire useful skills and knowledge. While offering such a centre enables individual women to improve their self-esteem and their knowledge on a range of topics, it also serve to bridge divisions between communities. The aim of the centre is to bring together Lebanese and Syrian women, two communities who have had tensions between them.
The activities
The activities that will be offered in the centre are determined by the needs and wishes of women in the area. They range from sewing and knitting to psychological support and language classes. There will also be awareness sessions on gender-based rights and trainings on conflict sensitivity. Through implementing such activities, the participation of women will reach beyond the centre, and empower them on different levels in their daily life. Due to this goal, الايادي البيضاء (White Hands) gave the centre the name " نساء قادرات", meaning "Capable Women".
The opening
On the 9 April, an event marking the opening of the centre took place. It was open to the public and attended by locals from the area, representatives from NGOs working in the area, representatives from the municipality as well as forumZFD and partners. The opening ceremony featured speeches from key individuals involved in the project, as well as a theatrical performance by the Playback Theater Troop 'Red Bridge'.
forumZFD is looking forward to following the progress of the centre and the impact of its activities.