Amaanah Celebrates Big Sisters Circle Graduation.

Last week, Amaanah Refugee Services proudly celebrated the graduation of its Big Sisters Circle participants. The event marked the culmination of months of hard work, growth, and determination by women from refugee and immigrant communities, each striving to build stronger futures for themselves and their families.

The Big Sisters Circle program provides refugee and immigrant women with essential tools, mentorship, and skill-building opportunities to help them navigate their new lives and achieve personal and professional growth. This graduation represented not just the completion of the program but the beginning of a new chapter for the graduates.

Christina Degbo, Senior Program Manager for Women’s Empowerment at Amaanah and the leader of the Big Sisters Circle program, addressed the attendees, speaking with pride about the graduates’ accomplishments.

“This day is a celebration of perseverance,” said Christina. “Every one of these women has overcome immense challenges, and today they stand here stronger, more confident, and ready to take on the future. This program isn’t just about learning skills—it’s about building a foundation for lasting success, and these women have done that with grace and determination.”

The event was highlighted by a keynote address from Humaira Madawa, a community advocate and champion for women’s empowerment. In her speech, Madawa shared words of encouragement and inspiration, urging the graduates to take pride in their journey and embrace the opportunities ahead.

“You are not alone in this journey. The pain you’ve endured will shape you, but it will not define you. You are stronger than you realize.”

Afterwards, Madawa said “It was an incredible honor to be a Keynote Speaker at the ceremony. Thank you Ahmad Alaswad for giving me this amazing opportunity and privilege. All over the world, women and girls are at the center of the Refugee crisis. Now more than ever, they need support to survive and build new lives.”

Christina expressed her gratitude for Humaira’s participation, saying, “We were honored to have Humaira with us to share her wisdom and encouragement. Her message was a powerful reminder that while we celebrate today, there is so much more potential to unlock.”

Speaking on the broader significance of the Big Sisters Circle program, Amaanah’s Executive Director, Ahmad Alaswad, offered his reflections. “This program exemplifies Amaanah’s mission of empowering individuals and fostering resilience,” he said. “The graduates today are proof of what is possible when we invest in people and provide them with the support they need to succeed. These women inspire us all with their strength and courage, and we are proud to celebrate their achievements.”

Ahmad also acknowledged the collective effort behind the program’s success. “None of this would be possible without our incredible team, led by Christina, and the unwavering support of our volunteers and community partners. This event is not just about the graduates—it’s a celebration of what happens when a community comes together to create change.”

The ceremony concluded with the presentation of certificates to the graduates, a symbolic recognition of their dedication and hard work. The room was filled with applause, smiles, and even a few tears as family members, friends, and supporters joined in the celebration.

Amaanah’s Big Sisters Circle graduation was a day of celebration, gratitude, and hope. It highlighted the transformative power of programs that focus on equipping women with the resources and confidence they need to thrive. The event also reinforced Amaanah’s unwavering commitment to building stronger communities and supporting those who need it most.