Yusra Bairq is a Yemeni journalist with expertise in producing press materials focused on the economy and humanitarian issues. Passionate about raising awareness of mental health, Ms. Bairq has created numerous impactful podcasts on the topic. She also excels in presenting radio programs and podcasts. She has participated in various training programs in Yemen and overseas and provided training sessions to students at the Faculty of Information in Mare'b and Aden, equipping them with essential news preparation skills and storytelling abilities. As an advocate for women's rights, Ms. Bairq actively participated in press campaigns supporting initiatives such as "16 Days against Violence against Women." She has also been involved in advocating for important causes like "Freedom of the Press in Yemen," "Rights of Yemeni Journalists," and "Access to Information for All." Her dedication to journalism, commitment to addressing critical issues, and passion for advocating change make Ms. Bairq a valuable asset to the media landscape in Yemen and beyond.

IVLP Impact Award Project: Radio Program Providing Psychological Support to Displaced Women

The Project Capsule podcast was a 20-part series dedicated to offering essential psychological support to women impacted by war and residing in displacement camps. Podcast episodes were aired simultaneously on FM Federal Radio Ether in Marib City, Yemen, as well as on the program's Facebook and Instagram platforms. The radio program featured weekly live episodes, with discussions led by medical professionals addressing the prevailing psychological problems experienced by women in the displacement camps. The project enhanced community consciousness surrounding psychological disorders and mental well-being by incorporating thematic discussions and hosting special guests. It eradicated some social stigma surrounding individuals with psychological issues and the practice of psychotherapy.

Click here to listen to Yusra's Podcast on Facebook Click here to listen to Yusra's Podcast on Instagram

 

IVLP Exchange Experience 

Yusra was a participant in the IVLP Project Economic Reporting: Tools and Best Practices for Yemeni Journalists, organized by the U.S. Department of State and CRDF Global, in partnership with the U.S. Department of State Office of International Visitors program branch in New York City, Global Ties Idaho and World Partnerships Inc.

Yusra's exchange experience led to the development of her IVLP Impact Award Project: "My experience with IVLP taught me that, as a journalist, it is crucial to have a deep understanding of the important issues within my community. In doing so, my expertise lies in efficiently seeking out reliable sources and gathering information to create a lasting positive impact on the community. There are important issues that some journalists may overlook, and all their attention goes [towards] political and economic [issues]. Our work as journalists must therefore be in society's [greater] interests."

U.S. Communities Visited

Washington, DC; St. Petersburg, FL; Boise, ID; New York City, NY

"Journalism plays a vital role by delivering accurate information to society, ultimately empowering the community and ensuring that they are aware of their fundamental rights." - Yusra Bairq

Country: Yemen

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