“Sewing enables me to pay for my medicines and transportation. Of course, this is not my ambition, but this is what is available at the time being  which mitigates my health concerns and keeps me going on. On the other hand, the psychosocial support sessions make me stronger and adaptable to face the difficulties that life puts in my way,” said Wahiba while exhibiting the garments she sewed.

Wahiba Sifati, 40, enrolled in a sewing course and psychosocial support sessions at the Syrian Family Planning Association (SFPA) in Aleppo in September of last year. She continued to visit the association, where she was able to master sewing and started sewing garments for her neighbours.

Wahiba's life was never easy. She was divorced 23 years ago, and her father, whom she considered her best friend, passed away when she was 18 years old, which negatively affected her psyche. Her grievances were exacerbated by suffering from glaucoma which is a result of high pressure in the eye. If not treated, total damage to the optic nerve occurs, and the eye loses its ability to see.

To elaborate on her medical condition Wahiba said: “I underwent 6 surgeries in both of my eyes, the last of which was one year ago. A poor mental health poses the threat to go blind because of high pressure. However, the psychosocial support sessions at SFPA relieved me psychologically and enhanced my ability to sew and work.”

SFPA is one of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) implementing partners in Aleppo. provides the beneficiaries of psychosocial support sessions with the opportunity to master a handicraft  for economic empowerment, especially the survivors of gender-based violence. However, these initiatives require continued donor funding to ensure their success and continuity.