Breaking Barriers, Building Peace: The Leadership Rise of Diyar Hasan Sharif

As part of UN Women’s efforts under the Beijing+30 Action Agenda, stories like Diyar Hasan Sharif’s reflect the transformative impact of investing in women’s leadership at the grassroots level. Her journey illustrates how strategic empowerment initiatives are shaping inclusive peacebuilding across Iraq.

Diyar Hasan Sharif was born and raised in Dhi Qar, a region in southern Iraq known for its strong tribal traditions. Growing up in a society that often relegated women to the sidelines, Diyar was no stranger to the barriers imposed on her gender. Despite the challenges, she pursued her education in legal administration at a technical institute and later found her voice as a media professional at Al-Ahwar TV channel.

Her life in a patriarchal society presented a unique paradox. On one hand, she was a woman with dreams and ambitions, eager to carve a space for herself. On the other, she witnessed the marginalization of women in public and social life—a reality she sought to change.

Although apprehensive, she signed up, driven by the belief that the training could enhance her ability to contribute meaningfully to her community. “I wanted to not only learn but also become a voice for the women who were often silenced in my society,” Diyar reflected.

Building Foundations

The two-day training workshops were a transformative experience. Topics ranged from understanding women’s roles in peacebuilding to practical skills in negotiation and conflict resolution. Diyar learned about the UN’s Women, Peace, and Security agenda, as well as national frameworks supporting gender equality and conflict management.

For the first time, Diyar found herself in a room filled with women who shared her vision of breaking societal barriers. The program not only equipped her with skills but also fostered a sense of solidarity among participants.

Equipped with newfound confidence and expertise, Diyar joined the Council of Leaders and Elders in Dhi Qar. Her first major challenge was mediating a water-sharing dispute between two tribes. Utilizing her negotiation skills, she facilitated a resolution that balanced tribal traditions with modern conflict resolution practices.

Her efforts extended beyond mediation. She collaborated with religious leaders to address broader social issues, including care for orphans and impoverished families. “True peace is not the absence of conflict but the ability to resolve it with empathy and understanding,” she often emphasized.

Diyar’s journey came full circle when she transitioned from a trainee to a trainer. She organized a workshop for 20 women, focusing on leadership and conflict resolution. Empowering other women became her mission, as she believed in the ripple effect of shared knowledge.

Her training sessions were not just about teaching skills but inspiring confidence in women who had long been sidelined. “We all have the power to lead, but sometimes we need someone to remind us of our strength,” she would tell her participants.

Impact Beyond the Workshops

<>As a media professional, Diyar used her platform to highlight stories of women contributing to peacebuilding. Her broadcasts showcased the positive impact of women’s leadership in resolving conflicts and building cohesive communities. She also leveraged social media, sharing her journey and motivating others to step into leadership roles.

Her work caught the attention of local and national leaders, further amplifying her message. Through her advocacy, Diyar became a role model, inspiring women across Iraq to defy societal expectations.

Diyar envisions a future where women in Iraq are not just participants but leaders in societal transformation. Her work with the Council and her role as a trainer are stepping stones toward a larger goal: creating an inclusive society where women’s contributions are valued and celebrated.

Her story is a testament to the power of resilience and the impact of empowering one woman to inspire a community. As Diyar often says, “Leadership is not about power; it’s about empowering others to find their voice and create change.”

Through her dedication and courage, Diyar Hasan Sharif has become a beacon of hope in her community, proving that even in the face of adversity, one person can make a difference. Her journey is not just her story, it is a movement for change.