June 2023
Breaking Barriers, Building Dreams: Naima’s Journey of Education and Empowerment with Hiraal YC.
Hiraal Innovation Hub under BIHD is a facility that provides young people with essential services, including literacy skills, life skill training, computer skills, coaching and mentorship, and reproductive health services such as counseling, HIV testing, and sanitary kits. Each year, over 500 young people graduate from the center and continue their education.
Success story, the sky is the limit for Naima
Naima Mohamed’s success story is truly inspiring. Despite leaving school in 8th grade, her determination to continue her education led her to the Hiraal Youth Center in January 2022. She joined an English class and initially doubted the quality of education in free spaces. However, as she explored the center, she realized its value and added a math course to her studies. Her gratitude for the opportunity to learn in such a supportive environment shows her perseverance and the positive impact of the center on her education and personal growth.
Naima’s is a testament to the transformative power of education and opportunity. After attending English classes at Hiraal in March 2022, she expressed how the center had been a game-changer for her, beaming with pride. Following six months of training in English and math, Naima joined the Shibis Health Institute in Garowe for a six-month first aid course. Her journey exemplifies how access to education opens doors for personal and professional growth.
Naima’s journey into the professional world is truly remarkable. After joining the Shibis Institute in July 2022, the course motivated her to continue learning. Realizing the need for computer skills, she took and passed the entrance exam, rejoining Hiraal’s computer classes. Her determination and commitment are inspiring and reflect the impact of Hiraal’s supportive environment on her educational journey.
Naima’s journey is truly inspiring. After attending the computer class at Hiraal in May 2023, her newfound skills empowered her to excel in her assignments. Participation in life skills courses led by the SRH team gave her lessons in human rights, communication, gender issues, and leadership. These experiences helped her grow confident, leading her to run for chairperson of the students’ council, where she won — proving girls can be powerful leaders too.
Naima’s experience at Hiraal has been transformative. She overcame her fear of public speaking through leadership and mentorship training. Today, she continues to grow as a volunteer at Hiraal, mentoring others and sharpening her communication skills. Her story truly reflects the center’s lasting impact on personal and professional development.
Naima mentoring other students at Hiraal in June 2023