In Kryvyi Rih, our women’s initiative group “Druzhba”, meaning Friendship, once again held an event for girls and women

This time, it was a lecture on legal awareness. The topic is complex, sensitive, and directly relevant to everyone. But because the session was organized by members of the initiative group themselves, they were able to present important information in a simple, clear, and accessible way.

When you live in a community and face similar challenges, you understand how to share information, who to involve in the discussion, and how to make it engaging, effective, and truly aligned with the realities and needs of Roma women.

Where to seek help, what to do when you are not being heard, how not to remain alone in difficult circumstances, and how to protect yourself and your children — these are common questions that Roma women often have to navigate on their own and without support. That is why it is important for us to help them understand that they have great strength and are capable of protecting themselves. When you understand your rights and know where to turn, you gain confidence and feel less afraid in difficult situations.

After the lecture, the women shared their impressions and said that what could have been a formal event became a warm meeting where everyone could speak about her own experiences and feelings without shame or judgment.

Women who completed our trainings with the support of CARE Ukraine have become community leaders. They understand the context, recognize everyday challenges, and know how to speak about important issues in a way that truly resonates and helps. They support others, explain, involve specialists, and teach women how to protect themselves and change their lives. Step by step, they are strengthening our communities.