Queen Rania visits Al Badia Society for Women’s Development

AMMAN — Her Majesty Queen Rania on Tuesday visited Al Badia Society for Women’s Development in Khashafiet Al Shawabkeh in Sahab District where she met with representatives from three local societies working on women’s empowerment and their economic development.

During the meeting, which was also attended by a number of beneficiaries, Queen Rania listened to a briefing about Fida Jordan (FJ), a Finnish NGO that has been operating in Jordan since 2004 and supported the establishment of several local societies.

Her Majesty discussed with the beneficiaries their successes that were achieved thanks to local societies’ partnership with organisations such as FJ, which has branches across 30 countries and firmly believes that poverty does not only mean the lack of financial resources but also the lack of knowledge. 

Queen Rania also stressed the importance of promoting best practices in economic empowerment for women and discussed ways that encourage them to play an active role in the development of their communities.

Katja Koykka, project coordinator of Fida Jordan, also attended the meeting, according to a statement from Her Majesty's office.

During the meeting, Al Badia Society President Basema Shawabkeh showcased its successes in training and awareness programmes. 

In addition, Shawabkeh highlighted the society’s contribution in providing alternative sources of income for local women by selling handicrafts, accessories, jams and other homemade food items, the statement said.

Dajana Al Saed, president of Hawd Al Kawthar Society, highlighted its work in Hai Nazzal that positively benefitted area residents, noting that its partnership with FJ facilitated the creation of workshops that train women on small business management, childcare and lifestyle quality improvement skills.

Also in attendance was Haydar Halaseh, president of Ghosoon Al Rahma Society, who discussed how the society’s work in Karak Governorate influenced women in Khashafiet Al Shawabkeh by allowing for trade between them.

He said the society also works with children, youths and women by providing training and programmes focusing on tolerance, peace and acceptance. Instilling these values in children, Halaseh stressed, will pave the way for a generation that does not resort to violence for problem solving, attitudes that will reflect on the community as well.

Rasha Batarseh, local project coordinator of FJ, said the NGO's core activities in Jordan include psychological, social, health and vocational training of local partners, as well as facilitating sustainable community development principles and practices.

Alien Omeish, training coordinator at FJ, briefed Her Majesty on its training programmes and highlighted its aims to empower local communities by equipping people with knowledge to better serve their own communities more effectively.

During the visit, the Queen toured the society’s beauty salon, equipped by FJ, which trained eight women from the local community. 

Queen Rania also viewed handicrafts made by local women and visited a workshop for local women trained by Kais Karadsheh, owner of KK Handmade Artwork and Accessories. 

Karadsheh explained that the products are sold in several fairs in Amman and have generated extra income for the women. 

Mohammad Qudah, a student who also benefited from the training, explained that the courses polished his skills and helped him earn extra income.

Her Majesty concluded her visit to Khashafiet Al Shawabkeh with a visit to the residence of Enas Al Quda, a beneficiary and an active member of Al Badia Society, the statement said. 

Quda shared with Queen Rania her inspirational success story and how she was able, with the help of Al Badia Society and FJ, to produce award-winning jams and pickles, contributing to her family income and eventually building a home.