The first phase of IM Women officially began with trauma-healing workshops and seminars for 35 displaced Marawi women. Aimed at helping participants regain a healthy mental state fit for political and economic participation, the women did team-building and art activities that allowed them to process their experiences in relation to the Marawi siege.

IM Women conducts its trainings at the Marawi City Livelihood Center generously provided by Mayor Majul Gandamra of Marawi City. The Livelihood Center has become a safe space where the women can weave without worry. The women’s children are welcome to stay there as well while their mothers train.

Psychosocial and livelihood skills training for the first batch of women is contained in the memorandum of agreement signed by Spark Philippines with Sinagtala Weaving Center last January at the Austrian Embassy, with Ambassador Bita Rasoulian and Jamela Alindogan as witnesses.

This was made possible by the successful fundraising dinner hosted by Ambassador Bita Rasoulian last November 2018 at her residence.