By Olivia Wells | Programs Director
Dear Friends and Supporters,
Happy New Year! As we reflect on 2024, FYF is proud to celebrate a year of transformative impact. At the same time, like many other organizations, we are concerned by recent US Government decisions that have significantly affected our programs and the hard-working FYF team. Dozens of our staff members have been furloughed and beneficiary cases have been halted for the time being due to this decision. While we are hopeful that our US-funded projects will be restored after the three-month governmental review, we are also asking friends and supporters to help us during this time of uncertainty.
In 2024, FYF empowered women through artisan and vocational training programs and provided education, protection, and mental health support to vulnerable communities. Our efforts have reached hundreds of women, children, and youth. Together, we’ve helped build brighter futures through economic empowerment, skills enhancement, and holistic trauma recovery. Looking ahead to 2025, we remain steadfast in our mission to foster resilience, restore hope, and create sustainable opportunities for those most in need. Thank you for standing with us as we continue this vital work!
EMPOWERING WOMEN THROUGH SKILLS ENHANCEMENT
Artisan Training Program: 16 women honed their craft skills, creating unique Chonky Animals and handmade products—opening doors to economic independence and sustainable income.
Bakery Training Program: 10 women learned valuable baking skills, gaining the tools for long-term economic stability and creating a path toward financial empowerment.
Skills Training in Crafts, Sewing, and Baking: 72 women completed hands-on vocational training, learning crafts, sewing, and baking skills that support their families and offer hope for a brighter future.
At FYF, we believe that empowering women with skills training and income-generating opportunities drives lasting change. By breaking the cycles of poverty and fostering financial independence, we create a future where women can thrive and reach their full potential.
BUILDING BRIGHTER FUTURES WITH FYF
At FYF, we believe in the power of education to transform lives and communities. In 2024, we reached 166 displaced women, girls, and boys in Khanke, offering English, Arabic, and Financial Literacy classes to help them build brighter futures.
Our English Access Microscholarship Program in Sheikhan supported 144 youth, equipping them with the language skills and confidence to pursue higher education and job opportunities.
Critical Thinking & Creative Learning: At FYF, we prioritize fostering critical thinking by encouraging students to analyze, question, and solve problems. This approach develops the skills they need to overcome challenges and thrive in all aspects of life.
Together, we’re building a future where vulnerable women, children, and youth can reach their full potential.
PROTECTION & MENTAL HEALTH: HOLISTIC TRAUMA RECOVERY
In 2024, FYF provided essential protection and mental health services to help rebuild lives after trauma:
Raising Awareness: 172 people participated in sessions preventing child, early, and forced marriages, while 136 learned about women’s and minorities’ rights.
Engaging Men for Change: 137 men took part in anger management and positive masculinity sessions, fostering healthy relationships and positive coping mechanisms.
Mental Health & PSS: 1,175 individuals received case management, therapy, legal aid, and psychosocial support to heal and regain hope.
Legal Support: 202 individuals attended sessions on the Yezidi Survivors Law, and 87 survivors received support to apply for reparations.
Together, we restore dignity, hope, and opportunity.
MORE THAN JUST A TOY: A STORY OF RESILIENCE
In the aftermath of unimaginable hardship, Kafia was tasked by FYF's Executive Director to begin working on FYF's new project: hand-crafted children's chunky stuffed animals, starting with a sheep and a bear. The FYF Chonky Animal® line has now grown into a powerful initiative, providing displaced Yezidi women with sustainable income.
For these survivors, crafting is more than just a skill—it’s a source of healing and empowerment. The income they earn helps cover essentials like school supplies, medical expenses, and other critical needs.
Every toy carries a story of resilience and hope. By purchasing one, you’re supporting Yezidi women as they rebuild their lives.
Order from anywhere in the world and join us in making a difference: https://freeyezidi.org/chonky-animals/
CELEBRATING CULTURE AND ACHIEVEMENT
To mark the end of an incredible year, FYF hosted a Traditional Day Party for our students in the English Access Microscholarship Program in Sheikhan.
Our students showcased their cultures by dressing in traditional clothing, preparing delicious traditional dishes, and sharing what makes their traditions both unique and interconnected. It was a beautiful celebration of diversity, social cohesion, and the hard work our students have put into their studies in 2024.
We’re so proud of the progress our students have made during the first year of the program. Here’s to another year of learning, growth, and community building!
Thank you for standing with us as we continue this vital work. Together, we are making a difference, one life at a time.
Sincerely,
Pari Ibrahim
Executive Director
Free Yezidi Foundation
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