Zahra Jaghoori Al Zahra Association Inc. SA A dream with a purpose Zahra Jaghoori Al Zahra Association Inc. SA

Introduction Al Zahra Association Inc. SA started from a dream in 2008-2009. I came from Afghanistan in 2000 as young refugee with heart full of determination. I was hungry and thirsty for knowledge when my father decided to arrange my marriage in order to study at university as a condition of my love for learning . Suddenly I was married in age of 18 and pregnant with my first child when I realised that my dreams were crushed and destroyed by family violence and false community expectations. I could not finish my degree and was not allowed to work or participate in any external activity. It was then when I dreamed of helping myself and every young women from our community to reach their full potential and improve quality of life by accessing education, meaningful activities, sports, socialisation and independence in supportive cultural and spiritual community environment.

Dream with a Purpose Challenges Lake of support Cultural issues Accessibility Resources Communication Fear of unknown Finance Strategy

Strength Hope Purpose (vision and mission) Creativity Collaborative leadership Mindfulness and focus Spiritual beliefs Acceptance Asking questions Usage of existing resources volunteers selflessness

Rules No idea is a bad idea Be creative Take risks No criticism allowed Respect Leadership is learned

Building support and network People support Community leader and elders support Government and services support Internal and external resources Networking Training and education Building trustworthy relationship Looking for funding

Summarize Al Zahra is still learning to dream big and go for it We made more mistakes then success We are working hard to establish further We are open to constructive criticism and love to learn and grow we accept diversity and respect every one We are ambassadors of peace with big dreams We are determined to make a positive difference and bring the dream in to reality

Next Steps Possibilities are endless Thank you Establish venue Leadership and management Competency Self sufficient funding strategies Generating developmental strategies and support our members, volunteers and committee to get equipped with skills, knowledge and relevant education Building networks and partnership Start turning ideas in reality Qualitative service delivery Promotional activities Marketing Using existing resources Ethical work norms Flexibility Purpose focused organisation Thank you