In the aftermath of the devastating earthquake that struck Morocco in 2023, the women of Anbdour faced unprecedented challenges. The loss of lives, homes, livelihoods, and access to basic necessities like water and sanitation further exacerbated existing gender inequalities. Amidst this crisis, dedicated facilitators from the High Atlas Foundation (HAF) to the Anbdour Women's Health Group embarked on a mission to empower these women, helping them reclaim their autonomy and self-determination. This article delves into the transformative actions of HAF’s empowerment program, celebrating the strength and resilience of the women involved.

The Facilitators' Approach

The facilitators adopted a deeply empathetic and culturally sensitive methodology, understanding that the lack of agency was not solely a personal issue but one deeply rooted in societal and cultural norms. They designed a comprehensive psychosocial program addressing the women's relationships with their bodies, wellbeing, and sexuality. Recognizing that true empowerment comes from within, they focused on nurturing the women's inner strength and self-belief. The core objective was to give women the right to take the first step, allowing them to ask the right questions and make decisions for themselves.

Their approach was multifaceted, incorporating elements of education, health, and emotional support. Empowerment is a holistic process that involves improving various aspects of one's life. Therefore, their program was designed to be inclusive, addressing not only the immediate needs of the women but also their long-term goals and aspirations.

The Empowerment Process

The facilitators conducted four-hour sessions, twice a day for four days, immersing the women in intense discussions and activities. The initial days were challenging, with the women struggling to balance their household responsibilities with the demands of the program. Yet, as the sessions progressed, a remarkable transformation began to unfold. The women started to open up, sharing their dreams and desires for lives and families. The facilitators encouraged dialogue between the women and their inner selves, hidden truths and profound desires.

The sessions were communal and hands-on, encouraging participation and sharing experiences.Techniques like role-playing, group discussions, and personal reflections helped the women explore their identities and aspirations. They honed in on their emotions, coming to terms with what makes them weak and what makes them powerful. Over four days, they become accustomed to sharing feelings, breaking personal and private barriers. This process of self-discovery was crucial in helping the women realize their potential and build their confidence.

Hygiene, exercise, and healthy eating were integral components of the program and foundations of empowerment. The facilitators introduced simple yet effective practices the women could incorporate into their daily lives, such as regular conversations on managing menstruation with limited access to water and sanitation products. These practices improved the women's health, boosted their self-esteem, and enhanced their sense of control over their lives.

The program also provided education for the children of the participating women, teaching them how to brush their teeth and hair and appreciate their mothers and the gifts of their parents. Simple tasks alluded to foundational and positive change, ensuring the next generation would be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to break the cycle of gender inequality. By investing in the education of the children, the facilitators aimed to create a ripple effect benefitting the entire community.

Breaking Down Barriers

One of the most significant barriers to autonomy was the women's perception of themselves as not being "women" due to their overwhelming responsibilities and lack of time to focus on their own needs and identities. The facilitators worked tirelessly to dismantle this notion, helping the women understand that their bodies and desires were worthy of attention and care. The program's emphasis on self-care and self-love was a crucial step in this deeply emotional and transformative journey.

The facilitators encouraged the women to embrace their identities and take pride in their femininity. They organized workshops on inner love and inner beauty, allowing the women to rediscover their sense of self and come to terms with the concept of loving and appreciating themselves before others. These activities were not superficial; they enabled the women to feel good about themselves and confident in their appearance and minds.

Transformative Power

The women's empowerment program in Anbdour is a testament to the transformative power of collective action and solidarity. The facilitators' approach empowered the women and helped them develop a profound sense of community and mutual support. The program's impact extended far beyond the individual, challenging and changing broader societal norms.

As the women grew stronger and more confident, they began to support each other and work together toward common goals. They formed support groups and networks, sharing experiences, offering advice, and providing encouragement. Witnessing real emotion at the psychosocial workshops was profound, as these workshops were one of the first spaces where the women had ever been allowed to cry. This sense of community was vital in sustaining the women's journey, providing them with a safety net and a source of strength.

The program also positively impacted the wider community, as the women started to take on leadership roles and advocate for change. They organized community events, spoke out against gender-based violence, and worked towards improving the living conditions in their village. Their actions inspired others and demonstrated the power of collective action.

The story of the Anbdour Women's Health Focus Group is one of extraordinary resilience and strength. As Iris Marion Young beautifully notes, "Self-determination is the ability to make choices and take control of one's life, and it involves attitude and abilities, self-awareness and creativity" (Young, 2002).

This operation serves as a powerful reminder to the importance of women's empowerment programs, highlighting the need for continued support and investment in initiatives that promote gender equality and a sense of self. The strength and determination of the facilitators and the women of Anbdour are a beacon of hope and inspiration, showing us that in the midst of adversity, anything is possible. These incredible women have forever embedded themselves in our minds, teaching us the true meaning of courage and perseverance.

Jhordawna Richa is a student from the University of Virginia and an intern at the High Atlas Foundation