Breaking stereotypes: woman opens home construction business in Jordan 

Her journey started when she decided to break gender stereotypes and challenge society by working as a carpenter to support her five children.

She decided to turn her hobby of doing maintenance around the house into a career, and realized that she could put her skills to use and generate an income.

After attending one of WFP’s rehabilitation trainings which focused on home maintenance, painting, and carpentry, Warda knew she could change the lives of so many people within her community as well by encouraging them to work with her. She now introduces herself as a “professional in painting, wood and wall maintenance.”

In 2019, Warda was nominated for the Women Stop Hunger Awards which advocates for economic equality for women and gives them resources for a path towards a hunger-free world. To Warda, winning the award was a turning point. With a prize of EUR10,000, she was able to carry out numerous projects and overcome major challenges.

Warda was able to establish her own home maintenance and construction business. Through her new business, “NOJOOM” – meaning ‘stars’ in Arabic – she hired women and men from her community, providing them with training and a source of income. Warda used the award to further expand her business; she bought premium tools like a steamer to clean walls and purchased a car to facilitate her team’s transportation to clients.    

“I encourage all women to work because it will help you succeed. Women can reach the highest ranks, they shouldn’t be ashamed of any kind of work, they should not let obstacles like society and stereotypes stand in their way”, she says.