Tree days of learning, strength and community - workshop with Baho Neza-ambassadors

We have now completed our three intensive and inspiring workshop days together with the Baho Neza ambassadors. I would like to begin by saying how incredibly proud and impressed we in Sweden are by their commitment and work. Their drive, sense of responsibility and desire to grow mean an enormous amount to the organisation. It is especially valuable that Mudi now takes part in our board meetings and can give us a direct and vivid insight into the daily work on site.

The purpose of the workshop has been to strengthen and deepen the ambassadors’ knowledge so that they feel confident and secure in their role when they meet the women in their groups. Through increased knowledge and shared learning, they are better equipped to share information, lead conversations and support the women in matters related to health, children, everyday life and the future.

During the three days we have worked a lot with physical training. We have trained endurance, but also played games that strengthen focus, concentration, cooperation and self-confidence. Through counting exercises, dance and facial expressions, we have practised listening, patience and a sense of safety in the group. It has been both fun and challenging, and the energy has been fantastic.

After the training, we have talked about diet and the importance of nutritious food. We have particularly highlighted the value of fruit, vegetables and protein, but also discussed breastfeeding during pregnancy, common misconceptions and the risk of malnutrition. We have talked about how important it is to eat more when the body is under heavy strain, for example through work or pregnancy.

We have also had conversations about the environment and responsibility – about not littering and about how today’s waste, such as banana peels and yoghurt cups, can be reused. For example, they can be used for planting, which sparked both curiosity and creativity.

An important and moving topic has been respect. We have talked about how respect is not created by hitting children, as that only makes them afraid. Just as children should respect their parents, parents should also respect their children. The ambassadors say that they often talk with the children about their rights. Many children know that they have the right to food, play and schooling – but far from all of them receive this in practice.

When asked whether they hug their children, the ambassadors answer that there is no time for that. It is a response that lingers and serves as a reminder of how different living conditions can be.

We have also talked about the dangers of alcohol and smoking, and about how important it is to brush teeth every time after eating. Lidivine asks a question about women who feel a strong craving for “beer” during pregnancy. I explain that alcohol is not good at all during that time, but notice that it is difficult to understand – yet another sign of how important information work is.

The days have ended with computer training. For Mama Shema, it is the first time she has ever sat in front of a computer, and it is moving to see her take her very first presses on the keyboard. The other ambassadors have also continued practising typing and becoming more confident with the technology.

These three days have been filled with learning, conversations, laughter and reflection.