Iraqi artist puts her talent to use in IDP camp

When conflict broke out in Mosul, Sinjar district, Hakima Hajie Malko’s family fled for safety and her education came to an abrupt halt.  The family currently live in Kabarto One camp for the internally displaced in Duhok governorate.   A star student, Hakima, now 21 years-old, said her greatest wish was to return to studies and develop her talent as an artist in order to support her family. 

“Our living conditions were not appropriate for me to continue with my art,”

Hakima said. “But I persisted and continued to develop and exploit this talent to support myself and my family.”  She began working as a volunteer for one of the non-governmental agencies inside the camp and because of the family’s poor financial situation Hakima was referred to the cash-for-work programme.  She was interviewed by the Baghdad Women Association and accepted for work within the camp. 

“It was like a dream come true,” continued Hakima.  “I wanted my art to make me self-reliant and to be able to help out my family.” The living conditions in camps are basic and utilitarian, so Hakima set about bringing some colour to the camp through her drawings. “I also wanted to create a more joyful place for the camp residents through my coloured drawings.  It brings me happiness to see my handprint in several places around the camp,” she added.

The future looks a lot brighter for Hakima who has gained a new confidence as a result of this opportunity. “I see for myself a beautiful future doing the work that I love.  I want to thank Baghdad Women Association and UN Women for their support and opportunity to develop my skills and help other women in the camp”.  Hakima has a message for all women. “It’s never too late to start to do what you love, even if you are 50 years-old, there is no such thing as ‘too late’.”