The Arab Renaissance for Democracy and Development (ARDD), in partnership with UN Women and with support from international donors, has concluded the first phase of trainings under the Oasis Program, held from 3 to 27 August 2025. The trainings spanned 18 centers across 11 governorates, engaging around 400 women and girls. The sessions were led by a distinguished group of experts, including Dr. Haifa Haidar and trainer Imad Abu Saleh.
Participants in the specialized trainings on civic engagement and leadership, organized under the “Empowering Each Other” project, noted: “These intensive trainings gave us the tools and confidence to become more involved in our communities and contribute to change, while highlighting the importance of continuing such initiatives to reach more women across different governorates.”
The Empowering Each Other project aims to equip women and girls with the knowledge and skills to become trainers in civic engagement and social protection within their governorates, while also fostering awareness and participation among both women and men.
The trainings covered several key areas, including civic engagement, social protection, leadership skills, public speaking, psychosocial support, and the prevention of violence against women and girls. These efforts align with ARDD’s mission to strengthen the leadership role of women and girls in society and encourage their active involvement in community initiatives and decision-making.
ARDD Program Director Eng. Zainab Al-Khalil emphasized that the trainings provide women, including those with disabilities, with the tools and confidence needed to become effective leaders capable of driving real change in their communities. She also noted that future plans aim to reach even more women in the coming months.
Reflecting on her experience, Doaa from Aqaba said: “The training enhanced our leadership role and opened our eyes to the importance of supporting each other as women in society.”
Amal Suleiman from Karak added: “The training boosted my confidence in active participation, expanded my understanding of rights, leadership skills, and positive influence. It was a turning point in my awareness of my role as an active woman and opened new horizons for understanding the tools of change.”
Roweida Al-Zoubi from Balqa shared: “From the very beginning, I benefited greatly from the training. Every lecture was excellent—none like yours.” Meanwhile, Ilham Eid Al-Muhairat from Amman reflected: “The training touched me in a special way. I felt it opened new doors in my life… This type of training is not only useful, but necessary.”
Reem Ahmad Al-Ananzeh from Jerash highlighted how the training enriched her communication and creative thinking skills, stressing the importance of community initiatives in influencing decision-makers.
Similarly, Bushra, Malak, and Rawan from Bani Hashem villages in Zarqa emphasized: “The training course was comprehensive and motivating, encouraging us to engage in community work. We now have the confidence to assert our presence. Hand in hand, we shape decisions and create change.”
In conclusion, all centers witnessed strong engagement from participants, many of whom expressed a sense of value and belonging. They also learned how to identify and analyze community issues and link them to real-life contexts, while fostering collaboration and teamwork. Participants stressed the importance of women’s participation in community life, strengthening their leadership roles, and setting an example in sharing responsibilities within both family and society. They further underscored the need to continue such trainings to broaden the scope of empowerment and positive impact for women and girls across all Jordanian governorates, thereby contributing to a more inclusive and just society.
