As our car wound through the roads of Ourika, past homes nestled in the mountainside, I couldn’t help but marvel at the resilience of the people who call these mountains home. It was the last day of the psychosocial workshop at Ijarifen Bouladaame Village, and on our way there, I had the privilege of engaging in a thoughtful conversation with Fatima-Zahra, the Lead Empowerment Trainer and facilitator of the psychosocial workshops.

Through our discussion, I learned about the profound impact the earthquake had on communities where psychosocial workshops are held. More importantly, I gained insight into the critical role HAF (High Atlas Foundation) plays in empowering vulnerable groups who participate in these workshops.

Upon arriving at the village, we were warmly welcomed by the women who had gathered for breakfast, joined by the cooperative outreach members. They immediately invited us to sit and enjoy tea. This gesture reminded me of what Fatima-Zahra had shared earlier: HAF provides breakfast and lunch during the workshops.

Witnessing this scene, I realized that offering meals does more than just incentivize attendance; it fosters a sense of community, encouraging participants to bond and get to know one another in a relaxed atmosphere before the workshop begins. Sharing a meal creates the right environment for open conversation and sharing.

Having attended numerous workshops in the U.S.—albeit with different objectives—I had expected a formal, somewhat rigid setting filled with superficial interactions and a largely silent room. However, despite not understanding Darija, I quickly noticed the difference here.

The workshop facilitator, Fatima-Zahra, kindly provided me with summaries of the conversations and activities, but what stood out was the genuine engagement of the women. They eagerly shared their stories, participated in activities, and conversed freely, creating a lively and supportive atmosphere.

The spirituality session was the highlight for me. As a Muslim woman living in a non-Muslim country, I appreciated the emphasis on spirituality as a key component of empowerment in the psychosocial workshop.

The women seemed to find profound comfort in their faith, discussing where they stood spiritually, envisioning where they wanted to be, and exploring the barriers holding them back. Fatima-Zahra led them through affirmations, stressing the power of positive thinking and giving them time to reflect and practice these affirmations.

The workshop concluded with reflections and actionable goals that the women could incorporate into their daily lives. These takeaways are intended to continue empowering them long after the workshop ends.

My own takeaway was that the workshop wasn’t about providing solutions to all their challenges; rather, it offered insight into how they can reclaim control over their lives despite the hardships they’ve endured. It also equipped them with practical tools to unlock their full potential.

The day ended with heartfelt expressions of gratitude and a demonstration of Moroccan hospitality through music and food—a fitting close to a day centered on community and empowerment.