The Power of “Girls Supporting Girls”: Hanan’s Journey

When new girls walk into the center for the first time, 16-year-old Hanan is the first to greet them. She welcomes them warmly, shows them around, introduces them to teachers, and ensures they never feel alone. But just a year ago, she would never have imagined herself in this role.

Before joining the Girls’ Life Skills Package, supported by UNICEF, Hanan often found herself hesitant and uncertain, afraid of making the wrong choices. Decision-making was difficult, and she lacked the confidence to take the initiative. She wanted to help others but didn’t always know how to connect with them.

Hanan went through a transformative journey after joining the Girls' Life Skills package. Through interactive discussions, engaging exercises, and building friendships with girls her age, she discovered the power of leadership—not as authority, but as solidarity and encouragement. She learned to trust her instincts, express her opinions, and recognize that sometimes, leadership begins with simply being confident with her choices.

“Before attending the Girls’ Life Skill package, I had difficulty making decisions. I was always hesitant and often made the wrong choices. However, thanks to the training, I am now able to make decisions correctly and no longer make poor choices,” Hanan expressed.

One moment stood out for her. A new girl arrived at the center, quiet and hesitant. Instead of just offering a tour, Hanan started a conversation—asking about her interests, her fears, and her hopes. That simple interaction changed everything. Later, the girl confided in her that Hanan’s kindness made her feel safe, helping her settle into the program with confidence.

The Girls' Life Skills Package offered and tailored by UNICEF and its partners didn’t just equip Hanan with skills—it gave her a sense of belonging. The group of girls who once felt like strangers soon became her closest support system and the safest space. “One thing that stood out to me was that we were a group of girls who worked together as one, united and supportive like sisters,” she said.

The Girls’ Life Skills Package also introduced her to vital resources, such as how to seek help when needed, contact support networks, and stay safe online. She embraced leadership, not just by leading group activities but by becoming a mentor and source of encouragement for her peers. “I brought happiness to my team’s hearts and always encouraged them to hold on to hope and not give in to sadness, because optimism is the key to success.”

Now, Hanan is thinking beyond the center. She dreams of creating a wider network where girls can continue supporting each other outside the training sessions, reinforcing the lessons they’ve learned and ensuring no girl feels alone. “I highly recommend that all girls join this training because they will truly benefit from it, just like I did.”

Through the Tailored Girls' Life Skills Package supported by UNICEF, adolescent girls are developing the tools they need to navigate challenges, build confidence, and take initiative in their communities. More importantly, it creates a space where girls uplift one another, forming a network of solidarity and strength.  Hanan’s journey reflects the power of girls supporting girls—one small act of kindness and leadership at a time.