Raghad Alkurdi
Raghad Alkurdi, a young woman from Souf Camp, has always been passionate about coffee and dreamed of becoming a barista. But societal expectations and cultural stereotypes made her ambition feel daunting. In her community, barista work was traditionally seen as a male role, and pursuing it as a woman required courage and determination.
Through the Youth Entrepreneurial Pathways for Resilience program, supported by the Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair Refugee Education Fund, Raghad enrolled in the Hospitality Diploma, choosing the barista track. The program provided hands-on technical training, life skills workshops, and mentorship, equipping her with both practical expertise and the confidence to navigate a male-dominated field.
Raghad recalls, “I wanted to quit on the first day—I felt out of place. But my trainer told me, ‘Your presence here is changing the game.’ Now, every cup I make is proof that women belong in this field too.”
Her journey not only transformed her career prospects but also sparked broader conversations in her community about gender roles and opportunities for young women. Today, Raghad thrives as a professional barista, breaking barriers and inspiring others to pursue their passions, regardless of societal expectations.
Her story is a powerful reminder that with determination, mentorship, and targeted support—made possible through the Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair Refugee Education Fund—young women can challenge norms, pursue their dreams, and redefine what is possible.
