KIMIA ESMAEILI

I founded the 'Sahra Group', a non-profit organization that aims to empower women and children in underdeveloped areas through employment, education and environmental protection. I was inspired by my previous volunteer work in disaster-stricken regions, where I saw the needs and challenges of the local communities. As the leader of this group, I oversee various aspects of its operation and management. Some of the tasks that I perform include: training and supporting local producers, especially female heads of households, who can add value to their products; designing and marketing products and packages that meet the market demand and reflect the potential and diversity of the producers; selling the products to organizations and companies; attracting sponsors, volunteers and influencers to promote the group's activities; and holding events to showcase the group's impact and achievements. I have invested my own money and time into this group, because I believe in its mission and vision. I am proud of what we have accomplished so far, and I hope to expand our reach and influence in the future. I am passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of women and children who face poverty, inequality and environmental degradation.

I have a long history of volunteering for various causes, but I became more committed to it after witnessing the devastating effects of the 2019 flood in northern Iran. I felt compelled to use my skills and knowledge to help the people and the environment that were affected by the disaster. My volunteer work has focused on three main areas: relief, reconstruction and development. In the relief phase, I coordinated with other volunteers and organizations to provide immediate assistance to the flood victims. I helped identify and distribute public aid, medical supplies and livelihood necessities to those who were displaced or returned to their homes. I also managed and planned the construction of temporary housing structures that were culturally appropriate and hopeful. In the reconstruction and development phase, I continued to support the recovery of the affected communities. I built health and educational facilities to improve their quality of life, health and education. I assessed their needs and secured funds to offer livelihood packages to orphanages, people in need and charities. I also initiated small weekly campaigns to clean up the Hirkani forests from garbage.