Awaz Simo is a project manager with ForumZFD Iraq. She is a board member and one of the founders of Dak Organization for Ezidi Women Development. She focuses on peacebuilding and conflict transformation in Duhok, Erbil, and Ninawa Governorate. She oversees and supports local partner organizations in projects related to civil peace services. Awaz has a bachelor’s degree in agriculture in the field of Animal Production from Duhok University (2013) and a master’s degree in international management from LCC International University in Klaipeda, Lithuania (2022).

IVLP Impact Award Project: Importance of Youth Participation and Mobilization in Preventing Violence Against Women and Girls

The project will build the capacities of youth and strengthen their participation in preventing violence against women and girls in their communities. Several workshops and open discussions will be organized to build youth capacity and increase youth awareness in applying nonviolent actions to their daily lives.

Awaz has carefully selected a core group of 10 women participants for her program. These women are young graduates who are currently unemployed and actively seeking opportunities to enhance their skills. They were chosen from a pool of potential candidates who demonstrated a strong interest in personal development and community involvement, aiming to strengthen their capacities for better job prospects with organizations.  

Awaz has held two workshops so far. The first workshop focused on "Communication and Active Listening Skills," blending theoretical and practical learning methods. Using the Alternative to Violence Program (AVP) exercises, the session engaged participants in reflective activities that helped them better understand their personalities and the relevance of the topics being taught. The second workshop covered key topics such as writing professional CVs, preparing for job interviews, and understanding the value of international programs like the IVLP. This session aimed to increase awareness and empower participants with practical skills for job readiness. 

 

 

“I hope that I can support a group of ambitious females from my community to be strong, to get ready for stepping into the community and achieve positive changes in their life and their community. My goal is to walk with them throughout the project to raise the awareness of their community with regard to preventing domestic violence and building a peaceful community.”- Awaz Simo

IVLP Exchange Experience 

Awaz participated in the IVLP Project Preventing and Combating Domestic Abuse and Violence organized by the U.S. Department of State and Meridian International Center, in partnership with the World Affairs Council of Maine, Iowa International Center, and the New York Program Branch.

Awaz's exchange experience led to the creation of her project. The program focused on the strong positions youth have in their communities to prevent different forms of violence.  Participants met with organizations and agencies that play active roles in shaping a peaceful future for youth at the local level. These included Finding Our Voices, the Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence, Monsoon Asian and Pacific Islanders in Solidarity, Children and Families of Iowa, and Iowa Coalition Against Domestic Violence in Iowa.

“IVLP was indeed one of the most amazing programs I have participated [in] so far. I deeply encourage more people to take part in IVLP because it is a lifetime journey that [fosters growth] personally and professionally [with the opportunity] to spend excellent moments in the beauty of USA's culture, people, life, and education, in different states.”- Awaz Simo

U.S. Communities Visited

Washington, DC; Des Moines, IA; Portland, ME; New York City, NY

Country: Iraq

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