In 2009, I arrived in the United Kingdom seeking refuge from the instability in my homeland of Iraq. Since obtaining refugee status, my life’s mission has been dedicated to advocating refugee empowerment, defending human rights, and actively pushing for substantial reforms in immigration and criminal justice legislation. My efforts extend to ending Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) and passionately advocating racial and gender equality, both within the nation’s borders and on a global scale
My journey in the fields of international development, human rights and charity has been both diverse and inspiring. I’ve had the honour of contributing my skills and expertise in various capacities across respected organisations including Hibiscus Initiatives, Women for Refugee Women, Danish Refugee Council, British Red Cross, and the International Centre for Migration Policy Development. Throughout my career, I have successfully secured and implemented programs funded by the UK Department for International Development (DFID), the Foreign Office (FCO), the European Commission (EC), and the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO). These initiatives have had a significant impact on vulnerable communities and contributed to improving their lives.
My journey has been marked by both challenges and deeply fulfilling rewards. I take pride in my contributions to projects and initiatives that have demonstrably improved the lives of individuals on a global scale. These experiences have not only enriched my understanding but have also ignited an even greater passion within me for the cause of human rights and achieving social and racial justice.
During my time at the British Red Cross, one of my significant achievements was successfully managing a multinational child refugee protection program delivering multiple awareness-raising campaigns on issues like trafficking, the best interest of the child, and family unity and multidisciplinary assessments to ensure the well-being of vulnerable individuals. I played a crucial role for promoting the foster care system at local, national, and European levels to provide essential support to unaccompanied refugee children and ensure their overall welfare.
My primary focus centers on driving legislative reforms that directly impact the experiences of migrant women within the criminal justice and immigration systems.
In my capacity as the Head of Policy and Public Affairs at Hibiscus, I hold a crucial position in shaping the organisation’s policy and advocacy work. My primary focus centers on driving legislative reforms that directly impact the experiences of migrant women within the criminal justice and immigration systems. I led on the organisation of a Westminster Hall debate aimed at addressing the concerning issue of the criminalisation of victims of VAWG from ethnic minority and migrant communities. This initiative brought together UK Members of Parliament to engage in a critical dialogue, urging the government to instigate comprehensive changes in law, policy, and practice. The goal is to prevent the unjust criminalisation of Black, ethnic, minoritised, and migrant victims of VAWG, ensuring their rights and well-being are safeguarded.
Since joining Hibiscus as the Head of Policy and Public Affairs, I have been dedicated to driving positive change and making a meaningful impact. My efforts have not gone unnoticed, as I proudly led Hibiscus to be nominated for a national organisation award in 2022, organised by Criminal Justice Alliance. This recognition is a evidence to the hard work and dedication of my team in advocating for the rights, tackling racism and ending unjust treatment of migrant women within the criminal justice system.
One of my most significant achievements during my time at Hibiscus was the development of a comprehensive national policy recommendation action plan aimed at addressing the inequalities faced by migrant women within the criminal justice system. This initiative has been a critical step towards ensuring fairness and justice for a marginalised group that often faces numerous challenges. Through rigorous research, collaboration with stakeholders, and an unwavering commitment to human rights, I led the team to develop the Double Disadvantage Action plan calling the UK government to put an end to the disparities and injustices that migrant women encounter within the criminal justice system. The recommendation not only focuses on legal reforms but also addresses systemic issues and barriers that hinder access to justice for these women. The policy recommendation emphasises the importance of implementing a holistic, gender and trauma-informed approach, incorporating aspects of gender equality, social justice, and racial inclusivity. It calls for better representation of migrant women’s perspectives in policymaking, the provision of culturally sensitive services, and the establishment of support networks to ensure their rights are protected throughout the criminal justice process.
The impact of this policy recommendation action plan extends beyond national borders, as it serves as a model for other countries and organisations striving to create fair and just systems for vulnerable populations. My work at Hibiscus has been deeply fulfilling, and I am driven by the knowledge that our efforts have the potential to transform lives and uplift migrant women. The nomination for a national award and the creation of the national policy recommendation action plan are milestones that energise myself and my Hibiscus to continue advocating for a society where the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their background,, immigration statuses are respected and upheld.
I am deeply committed to amplifying the voices of migrant women and advocating for their rights on both national and international platforms. I firmly believe that through strategic policy reform and collaborative efforts, the sector can build a future where equality, justice, and inclusivity are the cornerstones of our societies. Throughout my journey, I have witnessed the resilience and strength of many individuals who have faced adversity and displacement. Their stories have inspired me to keep pushing for a fair and just world where all individuals, regardless of their background and immigration statuses can live with dignity and safety. In my passion to make a difference, I have strived to ensure that the story of refugees and migrants like me is heard and understood by a broader audience. My passion for social justice and racial equality has driven me to advocate for policy changes that foster inclusivity and empower those who have been marginalised.
While my journey has been challenging, it has also been incredibly rewarding. I have had the privilege of helping others and contributing to the betterment of society. My work is not just a profession; it is a purpose that brings me immense joy. I am grateful for the chance to share my story, and I look forward to contributing further to the causes that are close to my heart.
