Inspirational Women – Zahra Ibrahim, Director of Barking and Dagenham Somali Women’s Association

How did you get to where you are today?
Commitment, Perseverance, and determination has got me where I am, although I think I have long way to go still. I am former child refugee. I became a child refugee at the age of 9, when my father was suddenly taken as a military officer in Somalia and my mother, sibling and I were left with no support and protection. One day, I heard my mother crying in the bathroom. She came out and I looked at her eyes steadily and said “it is going to be alright, I will make sure of it” in Somali. I never looked back since.

What barriers do women face in particular along the career path you’ve chosen?
I have chosen to work in the third sector for the reasons that I will help and support someone at a point of difficulties in their life so that they can help themselves and others around them. I have done this for the past 15 years and I am proud of the number of people I helped and supported. VS is a place where you commit to a cause you care about and go and do it! Most people I met in the VS ‘helping to make a difference’ in what they believe in and get up for, in the morning.

One of the barriers that people in the sector face is low pay and often do more than one job. Sometimes you got to become the work you’re doing so that you can achieve your goals.

The sector depends on funding from trusts, foundations and donations, which is getting harder and harder, so it is difficult to sustain the good work for people in need in the community. Often, there is no job security as it depends on short contracts and you are constantly looking for support.

Other challenges are family and work balance. I have 5 children whom are 3 teenagers this is my first job, I design support services, manage delivery and secure funding for the charity to stay afloat.

This is a big responsibility but I do it because I am passionate about making a difference, contribute positively and create harmony in between people and communities.

How/have you been able to challenge these barriers?
I have overcome some of the barriers, but it is constant battle to make sure my staff and volunteers and service users are looked after and provided for.

What does Women’s Day mean to you and why is it important?
International Women’s Day is about celebrating women’s achievements, but this year is even more special for two reasons. Firstly, it is the anniversary of 100 years for Women’s Vote, no matter your political persuasion it is something to celebrate. It is something I value and treasure for, some part of the world voting is privilege and women often don’t get their voice heard.

Secondly, as here in Barking and Dagenham, we are proud of the “Dagenham Girls” who fought for equal pay and gender equality at Ford Dagenham. So I am proud my borough’s history and what those women before us have achieved.