In the Spirit of Ramadan and International Women’s Day: Celebrating Refugee Women in Cisarua

Cisarua, 9 March 2026 – Ramadan is a time often associated with reflection, compassion, and community. This year, the holy month coincides with International Women’s Day offering opportunities to promote strength and resilience.

Such was the case in Cisarua, a quiet area known for hosting refugee communities. In observing the spiritual act of fasting, the women showed that they were not only surviving, but leading, creating, and uplifting others around them.

During a recent visit on 9 March, UNHCR had the opportunity to meet remarkable refugee women whose initiatives are making a tangible difference within their communities. It was a particularly important occasion as UNHCR was accompanied by Guzelya Marisova Djani, a social entrepreneur, author, advocate, and UNHCR supporter. She witnessed first-hand the resilience as well as a deep commitment to empowerment and collective growth.

One of the highlights of the visit was Craft Creation, a women-led organization dedicated to equipping refugee women with practical skills in handicrafts. In this space, creativity becomes both a form of expression and a pathway to independence. Women gather to learn and produce handmade items such as crochet pieces, keychains, bracelets, coasters, and bags, using materials like wool and rattan. Beyond the products themselves, Craft Creation offers a safe and supportive environment where women can rebuild confidence, share knowledge, and support one another.
The visit also included meaningful conversations with leaders of several women-led organizations. In an open and reflective discussion, they shared insights into their ongoing work as well as the challenges they face, from limited resources to uncertain futures. Despite these obstacles, their determination is steadfast. These women continue to lead initiatives that foster education, skills development, and emotional support within their communities.

Another inspiring stop was the Cisarua Refugee Shotokan Karate Club (CRSKC), a refugee-led initiative focused on youth development through martial arts. Founded by Meena Asadi, a female refugee karate champion and trainer, the club instills discipline, confidence, and a sense of belonging among young refugees, in addition to the physical training.

During the session, Ms. Marisova Djani joined the students on the mat. As a black belt in taekwondo, she found an immediate connection with the group through their shared passion for martial arts. This moment of interaction highlighted how sport can transcend language and background, build bridges and strengthen community ties.

As Ramadan encourages generosity and reflection, and International Women’s Day calls for recognition and equality, the stories from Cisarua stand as powerful reminders of what community-driven resilience looks like. The refugee women here are not only navigating challenging circumstances. They are actively shaping opportunities for themselves and others.

Their strength, creativity, and leadership illuminate a path forward: one built on hope, solidarity, and the belief that even in displacement, communities can thrive.