Opening of the Women for Women International Women’s Opportunity Centre
Women for Women International Women’s Opportunity Centre (WOC) in Pristina, Kosovo.
Women for Women’s first Women’s Opportunity Centre was officially opened on 23rd June 2011 and brought together programme participants, trainers, past graduates, staff and both local and international supporters. A gloriously sunny day started with the official opening ceremony, where the newly appointed Country Director of our Kosovo Office – Iliriana Gashi was joined by Carol Jackson from the Private Equity Foundation as well as Molly Cronin from Sharon Davis Design Studios who supported the Women’s Opportunity Centre with generous funding and pro-bono design.
See photos from the opening ceremony.
Molly Cronin highlighted, ‘This is not just a building – it will be a safe space for women to meet and share and continue their learning.’
Ramize, a programme participant, said: ‘In the beginning I was only interested in learning about gardening, but through the Women for Women course I decided to take some of my produce to market and on the first try I made 46 Euros. It was so good to be able to buy things for my family and now I lead a cooperative of women making food for sale at the market. I can only say – Women, participate in as many fairs as you can!’
The ceremony was closed with a beautiful rendition of ‘Songbird’ by singer and UK supporter of Women for Women International – Laura Comfort
Supporters then also had the opportunity to tour the new WOC facilities and visit different training activities and classes in an open house, including an opportunity to view our life skills classes, vocational classes and letter writing.
Women’s Opportunity Centres (WOC) are the next step in helping women survivors of war
Women’s Opportunity Centres are safe havens for women and are at the very heart of the community, filled with women who are gaining new skills and taking control of their lives. Anchored by our core programmes, these centres are a source of support, pride, and strength for women and a hub of ongoing activity, learning, and commerce for their communities. They represent our commitment to helping women survivors of war transform themselves and their communities, not just for a year or two, but for a lifetime.
Listening to the needs of our participants
Through surveys we have found that programme participants want more continued support after they graduate. The networks and friendships they form whilst participating in the one year programme are vital to their emotional and psychological wellbeing and development and a safe place for them to meet and continue these relationships in a more informal environment was highlighted as a key need.
Learn more about our women in Kosovo.
