SCORING GIRLS* IRAQ
Who we are
SCORING GIRLS* Iraq is an open and free program for girls between the ages of 8 and 18 who live in internally displaced persons camps or in host communities in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. We use football as a starting point to create safe spaces where girls can build self-confidence, experience community, and strengthen their social skills. We see ourselves as an inclusive, multi-ethnic, and multi-religious project that supports girls, broadens their perspectives, and empowers them to actively participate in social life.
What we do
In Iraq, we offer weekly football training sessions and workshops that promote physical health, self-confidence, and resilience. The girls learn to connect across ethnic and religious boundaries, build friendships, and develop key skills such as teamwork, fairness, and conflict resolution. In addition, we empower them through educational activities on gender-based violence, mental health, and social participation. Role models – including successful female athletes and committed community members – inspire the participants* and open up new perspectives. Additionally, we organize outings and excursions to cultural and sports events and support girls, when needed, in accessing psychosocial support at our HÁWAR.help Women’s Centers.
How we work
Our work in Iraq is based on respect, equal opportunities, and mutual appreciation. We create safe spaces where diversity is embraced and differences are seen as strengths. Cooperation and solidarity are at the center, as is the principle of making decisions together with the girls and their communities. Solidarity, inclusion, and empowerment form the foundation of all we do.
Target Group
Our target group consists of girls and young women between the ages of 8 and 18 who live in internally displaced persons camps (IDP camps) or in host communities. Many have experienced displacement and forced migration, including survivors of the 2014 genocide against the Yazidis committed by the so-called “Islamic State.” A large proportion grow up under precarious conditions, face discrimination, and therefore have limited access to education, healthcare, and social participation. Even the younger girls who were born after these events are shaped by their families’ experiences and affected by the aftermath of the genocide.
„I am convinced that with the SCORING GIRLS* we are addressing the ‘roots’ of the issue — and that we need to expand the projects not only within Germany, but also beyond, where children have just as much a right to dreams and aspirations.“
Tuğba Tekkal
TESTIMONIALS
“Since I joined SCORING GIRLS*, my life has fundamentally changed: I’m motivated to learn skills for the future.”
SCORING GIRL* Sonya
When I play football, I feel like it’s how it used to be – when everything was carefree. These moments give me hope and joy. The sense of togetherness I experience at SCORING GIRLS* motivates me to become better.”
SCORING GIRL* Niran
“When we come here, we can forget all our worries. We meet new people and can make new friends. It was always my dream to become a soccer player.”
SCORING GIRL* Rojin
“Sports are very important for the girls. Especially for their physical health, because they are still growing and should develop a healthy and resilient body.”
Trainer Sipal
PARTNERS
SCORING GIRLS* Iraq is supported by:
PRESS
SCORING GIRLS* Iraq has been featured in the following media outlets:
