The knock that could save a child's life
Across Bardhere's displacement camps, one young woman is helping parents make informed decisions about vaccinating their children.
By the time the morning heat settles over Bardhere, Leylo Hassan has already visited several families. Moving between rows of makeshift shelters in the displacement camps, the 22-year-old social mobiliser greets mothers by name, asks about their children and patiently answers questions about vaccination. In many homes, she is a familiar face.
For Leylo, these visits are not simply part of a daily routine. They are an opportunity to help children stay healthy.
"I enjoy working with the community," she says. "When I see mothers bringing their children for vaccination after we have spoken, I feel happy because I know we are helping protect them."
Born and raised in Bardhere, Leylo knows the realities many families face. The camps are home to people who have left their homes in search of safety and support. For parents trying to rebuild their lives, finding food, water and shelter often takes priority. Health appointments can easily be delayed or forgotten.
Earlier this year, when a measles outbreak affected the camps of Iftin, Buulo-Geedi and Habal-Adey, the risks became even more urgent. As health workers prepared to respond, Leylo joined other social mobilisers working across the camps to ensure families had accurate information about the disease and knew where to access vaccination services.
Her work began long before the first child arrived at a vaccination site. Every day, she went from shelter to shelter, speaking with caregivers, listening to their concerns and helping them understand why vaccination matters. Some parents wanted reassurance. Others had questions they had never had the opportunity to ask.
"Some caregivers need more information before making decisions about their children's health," Leylo explains. "When we sit together and talk, they can ask questions and we can explain why vaccines are important."
The conversations are rarely rushed. Sometimes they take place under the shade of a shelter. Other times they happen while mothers prepare meals or care for younger children. Over time, those discussions have helped Leylo build relationships with families across the camps.
She believes trust is at the centre of her work. "If people trust you, they listen," she says. "When they understand that vaccines protect children from dangerous diseases, they are more willing to bring their children for vaccination."
Leylo also works closely with community leaders, whose voices carry significant influence. Together, they encourage families to seek health services and ensure that information reaches even the most remote corners of the camps.
The work can be demanding. Days are long, and reaching every household takes persistence. Yet Leylo remains motivated by the children she meets along the way. Each vaccinated child is a reminder of why her work matters.
Supported by the Republic of Korea, the measles response has helped bring lifesaving services closer to vulnerable families in Bardhere. Behind those efforts are community workers like Leylo, whose determination and commitment help turn information into action.
