Semra* joined our STEP 5 programme as a very quiet and reserved woman. She was fully covered and seemed distant at first. A mother of four, she remained silent and withdrawn during the Life Skills sessions.
Later, in a private conversation, she began to open up. She shared that her husband was in prison due to an incident that had taken place in a neighbouring country. Eventually, she also told us that her father-in-law had passed away, though she preferred not to speak about it in front of the others. Once she had gained our trust, she revealed that she suspected her father-in-law had been murdered in a case of blood feud.
After his death, all the responsibilities of daily life fell on her shoulders — caring for her mother-in-law, raising her children, driving, shopping, and managing everything on her own. Despite these heavy burdens, she made remarkable progress in the sewing course. Gradually, she became more open and positive, and began to connect better with the other women in the group. She even shared her dream of opening a sewing shop together with her sister-in-law.
However, quite suddenly, she withdrew again. We sensed that something was wrong. We invited her for coffee outside the group setting and asked gently what was happening. That was when she shared a heartbreaking truth: she had discovered that her husband had another wife — and even children — with her. To make matters worse, the whole family, including her mother-in-law, knew about it. This left Semra feeling deeply hurt, betrayed, and humiliated.
During this already difficult time, her own father passed away, and her mother became seriously ill. Sadly, she was unable to travel to be with them. Throughout this painful period, we stayed in close contact with Semra, offering encouragement and emotional support through regular conversations.
Although she remains vulnerable, she has become more open and receptive. Our conversations continue to have a positive impact on her. We are proud of her for completing both the sewing course and the practical training, despite all she was going through.
Semra still dreams of opening her own sewing workshop and has asked for our help with the necessary documentation. She told us, “If you are with me, I’m not afraid to go forward.” We believe in her and trust that she will take the next step towards making her dream come true.
* Name changed
