We run gender-based violence awareness program and train community mobilisers to run them in their own community and language.

With the funding from UNHCR in 2025, we have run GBV awareness program in 5 different communities: Iranian, Sudanese, Somalian, Myanmar, and Rohingya, sensitizing a total of 530 refugees. We had 27 community mobilisers joined our training of trainers program.

Testimonies from the community mobilisers

I feel happy and proud to be able to talk openly about Gender-Based Violence in my community. It is a very sensitive topic that many people are often afraid to discuss. By raising awareness, I feel that I am helping my community understand that violence is wrong and that everyone deserves safety and respect.

This experience has made me feel more confident and courageous. Before, I was afraid to speak about Gender-Based Violence, but now I feel empowered because I have the knowledge and support to raise my voice and help others.

I hope that refugees can live in a safe community free from fear, where people speak up against violence and support survivors with kindness, dignity, and respect.

- Nurtaz (Rohingya), Penang Refugee Network (PRN)

I feel happy and encouraged to be able to openly share and talk about Gender-Based Violence with my community. This opportunity allows me to raise awareness and help people better understand their rights and where to seek support. Although it can sometimes be challenging, I feel empowered and proud to speak up, support others, and be part of positive change in my community. Speaking openly about this topic in my community was new for me, and it was encouraging to see people become more aware and engaged.

In the future, I hope for a community where Gender-Based Violence is not tolerated and survivors feel safe to speak up and seek help. I also hope for more awareness programs, stronger protection systems, and better access to services for survivors. Moving forward, I wish to continue building my skills so I can keep supporting my community and contributing to meaningful and lasting change.

- Amal (Somali), Somali Refugee Centre (SRC)

Being given the opportunity to be trained and empowered to run a Gender-Based Violence program in my community filled me with a strong sense of responsibility and purpose. Creating a safe space to talk openly about Gender-Based Violence helps break the silence, reduce stigma, and raise awareness within the community. This experience increased my confidence and motivation, strengthening my belief that informed voices can inspire change and support those who may feel unheard. It is not only about sharing knowledge, but also about listening, empathy, and collective reflection.

I hope for continued open conversations, stronger support systems, and a community where Gender-Based Violence can be prevented through awareness, education, and collective action.

- Asma (Iranian), Iranian Refugees and Asylum Seekers Society (IRAAS)

I felt concerned because Gender-Based Violence is still a serious and often misunderstood issue in our community. However, I also felt hopeful that discussing it openly would bring greater understanding and encourage people to take action to stay safe. This experience motivated me to continue raising awareness so that more people can better understand their rights. I feel more empowered and confident as a result.

Being able to lead and speak during this awareness-raising activity helped me build my skills, strengthen my confidence, and deepen my understanding of the issue. It showed me that I can play an important role in creating a safer environment for others in the community.

I hope that more community members will recognize the importance of addressing Gender-Based Violence, including how to prevent it and how to support survivors. Above all, I hope our communities become safer spaces where everyone—especially women and children—can live free from violence and fear.

- Mang (Kuki, Myanmar), Kuki Democratic Student Front (KSDF)