Anwar Koli Changed Her Community!

Anwar Koli is a 21-year-old woman living in the crowded Rohingya refugee camp (Camp-01 East) in Cox’s Bazar. Life for her, like many young women in the camp, has been full of struggles and uncertainty. She lives with her mother, an older brother, and a younger sister. From a young age, Koli loved dancing, singing, and sports. But her childhood changed by sudden shifts in her family life. 

When Koli was fourteen, her father brought home a second wife, and shortly after, he left the camp with his new family. This pushed Koli’s family into deep trouble. Her mother struggled to manage the household alone, and Koli, still a young girl, felt the weight of responsibility pressing on her small shoulders. School became impossible, and she had to leave her studies behind. She wanted to help her family, but at her age, there were few opportunities. 

During these difficult years, Koli came to the Women-Friendly Space (WFS), run by the GBViE project of Mukti Cox’s Bazar. Initially, she just visited to spend time with friends, but soon she began to attend awareness sessions, Psychosocial Support (PSS) meetings, and other activities of the project. Step by step she started learning about women’s rights, communication skills, and ways to cope with stress and challenges. Each session gave her a little more confidence, and she began to believe that she could have a say in her own life.

When a WASH volunteer position opened at an NGO, Koli applied. She was selected and worked there for about a year and a half. Unfortunately, the program ended due to funding issues, and Koli lost her job. She felt disappointed and unsure about the future, but she did not give up. She continued attending the WFS, participating in sessions, and staying connected with the support network she had built.

Her challenges did not end there. Koli’s mother wanted her to marry, which meant giving up her work and the independence she had begun to gain. Koli felt helpless and frustrated. She shared her worries with a case worker at the WFS, who patiently supported her. They met regularly, discussed Koli’s concerns, and explored options. Slowly, Koli’s mother began to understand the importance of her daughter’s dreams and potential. One day, she told Koli, “I will not force you to get married.” That decision changed the course of Koli’s life.

Soon after, a position for a PSS volunteer opened at the WFS. Koli applied and was selected. She received training on mental health awareness, stress management, anger control, and suicide prevention. Today, she facilitates sessions for women and girls in her community, teaching them how to manage stress, express themselves, and seek help when needed. She has become a source of guidance and hope for many young girls who face difficulties in the camp.

Koli’s family has grown supportive of her work, and her younger sister is inspired by her example. Girls in the community look up to her and often come to her when they feel anxious, stressed, or face violence. Koli listens to them, encourages them, and connects them to the WFS so they can receive the help they need.

Anwar Koli says, “Earlier, I used to ask for help. Now, I help others. I have learned that I have the right to make decisions about my own life. Today, many girls in my community come to me when they face any problems. I listen to them and guide them to get support from the Women-Friendly Space. It makes me proud to know that my story can give others hope and confidence.” 

Anwar Koli’s story shows how support, patience, and safe spaces can transform a young woman’s life. It is a journey of courage, resilience, and growth. From a girl facing hardship and uncertainty, Koli has become a confident young woman who helps others find hope and their voices and rebuild their lives. Her journey is a powerful reminder that even in the hardest circumstances, strength, hope, and leadership can emerge.