Deeqa, Fardowsa, and Leyla share a few things in common: they are disabled and are survivors of gender-based violence. Their experience of living with disability meant they were no strangers to adversity. Displaced women with disabilities often face stigma and discrimination in their communities. Due to their specific needs, they may also face social exclusion from their peers and experience isolation in their homes. They can encounter multiple environmental and social barriers when accessing services and assistance and face a greater risk of protection concerns including violence and exploitation. With no support system and limited resources, they face overwhelming challenges. 

“Some of the challenges we face every day in the camp include not being able to participate or be fully included in activities and also lack of full acceptance by the community,” Leyla, 38, explains. Her husband is also disabled and together, they have 12 children. 

“In particular, women and girls with disabilities may face a disproportionate risk of GBV,” added 22-year-old Fardowsa who had a life-changing accident when she was four. 

NoFYL’s protection programs play a vital role in providing targeted support to individuals like these three women. With support from UNICEF, we are empowering 60 women and girls like Deeqa, Fardowsa, and Leyla with tie & dye skills training at our women and girl’s safe spaces in Bardheere & Belet-Xaawo, Gedo. The 6-month skills training began in February 2024 and aims at giving the women and girls life-changing and income-generating skills. By learning new skills, they are opening doors to opportunities that help them generate income to support themselves and their families. 

Tye-dyeing is a manual method of producing patterns in textiles. It is done by tying portions of the fabric in such a way that it does not absorb the dye. The process involves folding, twisting, pleating, or crumpling fabrics, binding them with string, and subsequently applying the dye. 

The opportunity to get out of the house and meet and learn with other women has transformed Deeqo’s outlook on life. “I used to sit at home and couldn’t go anywhere and had negative thoughts all the time,” Deeqo said. “But since I joined the training, I look forward to going to the safe space where women come together, socialize, listen to each other’s experiences and most importantly learn new skills. Coming her made me hopeful again,” says the 19-year-old divorced mother of three children, beaming as she shows off one of the fabrics she had expertly tied and dyed.  

Before joining the skills training, Fardowsa’s dream of becoming independent seemed out of reach – even impossible. However, the skills she has learned means it may one day be realized. 

“Before, I felt a sense of inferiority compared to other individuals, as I have disability. Now armed with tie & dye skills, I hope to train others. I can imagine a better future,” she said. “I have become very hopeful. I see my life in a better way.” For Deeqo and Fardowsa, the tie and dye skills training has provided much-needed hope and a renewed sense of purpose. Every day, they look forward to honing their skills, knowing that they are taking significant steps towards a better future for themselves and their families. 

“Few months ago, this was impossible.” says Leyla, while holding a piece of white fabric, intricately tying it in preparation for dyeing. “It’s a really good feeling to achieve things that first seemed impossible!” 

Upon completing the skills training in July 2024, participants will receive start-up kits to help them establish a small business to sustain them. For Fardowsa and her fellow participants, the program has opened new horizons. They have already planned their next steps: “The three of us have decided to combine our kits and skills to start a small business selling tie-dyed clothes to the community,” says Fardowsa.  

“We also plan to offer tie-dye training to other women in our camps for a fee,” Leyla Interrupted. “We might even do it for free,” she quips with wry humor. 

The three disabled women’s journey not only brought them newfound independence but also served as a wellspring of inspiration for others living with disabilities in their community. Their resilience has become a source of motivation, proving that with determination and access to opportunities, one can overcome life’s most challenging obstacles. With tailored support, they are gaining skills and confidence to build a brighter, more independent future.  

Life is still hard for them, but they now live with hope and dignity. “I hope NoFYL continues to help so that more women like us can take care of themselves,” said Deeqo. “It’s the only opportunity that women have, and the only safe space they can access to come together, learn new skills and get psychosocial support. There are no other services like this,” she finished. 

In addition to the skills training, NoFYL provides psychosocial counselling and sessions on gender-based violence to help the women cope in a society where disabled women often face stigma and hostility.  

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