IOM X: Embracing Opportunities at Home

When Abdikarim Aden and Jawahir Ahmed thought about a brighter future for themselves, irregular migration was the only solution that popped up in their minds. But an information campaign led by the International Organization for Migration’s in Hargeisa, their hometown, helped them discover new ways to achieve their dreams.  

Held over two days in October, the IOM X campaign brought together more than 200 young men and women to share their stories and reflect on safe migration, and public action to curb exploitation and human trafficking. 

The air buzzed with anticipation as young people from various backgrounds came together, sharing hopes and dreams. Abdikarim and Jawahir entered the room with dreams of leaving their country behind but left with a renewed belief in the potential that lies within their own communities.  

During the event, attendees listened to inspiring stories, including one of a young woman who built a successful tailoring business and a man who carved a path in the electrical sector. These narratives were not just stories; they were lifelines showing that countless possibilities awaited them in Somaliland. 

Abdikarim commented on his transformation, saying, “we often see a better future in irregular migration. But I realized that there are so many opportunities waiting for us here [at home].” 

He recalled the moment he heard a success story that resonated deeply with him, igniting a newfound passion for learning skills that could improve his life. “I felt a spark of hope,” he reflected, “as if a door had opened in front of me.” 

Jawahir related to Abdikarim’s journey, recalling her own aspirations: “Before this event, I thought that leaving Africa was my only option for a better life. I dreamed of earning money and changing my situation. Now, I’m focused on building my skills instead.”  

Inspired by the real-life experiences shared during the campaign, she began to see that her dreams could flourish right at home, without risking a perilous journey abroad. “It felt like I was given a map to my future,” she said. 

Abdikarim and Jawahir stepped up as advocates for their peers in their home communities, eager to share what they had learned. Abdikarim encouraged his fellow youth, saying,“I want to urge young people like me to recognize the meaningful opportunities available here. By focusing on building technical skills, we can create a better future in our own communities,” Abdikarim said. His message was a rallying cry for self-empowerment and community resilience, a theme echoed by many in the audience. 

The IOM X campaign, rooted in Communication for Development (C4D) methodologies, engaged the youth in a way that sparked hope and purpose. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, applause and moments of reflection. By providing space to share stories that were relatable and real, the event created a space where young people could dream about their futures, grounded in their skills and ambitions. 

Through their participation in the IOM X campaign, Abdikarim and Jawahir have not only transformed their own outlooks but can also drive change within their community. They are determined to advocate for narratives that celebrate local potential and success, showing that meaningful achievements can be cultivated right where they are. 

As the IOM X campaign moves forward, Abdikarim and Jawahir remain committed to inspiring their peers.