The year that changed us.

Reflecting on a Year of Genocide and Our Commitment to Empowerment: A Message from Sitti Social Enterprise**

As we reflect on the past year, the global community continues to grapple with the horrifying realities of the Gazan genocide and its aftermath. This past year has been marked by devastating conflicts in various regions—events that have shattered communities, displaced millions, and deepened our collective understanding of the human cost of violence. For Sitti Social Enterprise, this year has been a time to re-evaluate our mission and remind ourselves of the importance of empowerment, justice, and healing.

At Sitti, our work has always been deeply connected to communities affected by conflict. We were born from the need to create sustainable, dignified livelihoods for refugees in Jordan’s Jerash Camp, many of whom are survivors of generational trauma and displacement. Though our primary focus is economic empowerment, our work is also an act of resistance against oppression and injustice. This year, as we witness new and ongoing genocides, we recognize that our role extends beyond economic impact; it’s about fostering resilience, creating hope, and standing in solidarity with those who have been silenced.

The Unfolding Tragedies of Genocide

Genocide isn’t just a word from history books—it’s a living, breathing crisis that continues to unfold in places like Myanmar, Ethiopia, Sudan, and Ukraine. The deliberate targeting of ethnic and religious groups, the forced displacement of people from their homes, and the erasure of cultural identities have been stark reminders of the world’s moral failings. At Sitti, our hearts are heavy with the stories we hear from across the globe—stories of families torn apart, children left orphaned, and entire communities erased. The sheer scale of human suffering is difficult to comprehend.

But amidst this pain, we are reminded of the strength and resilience of those who have endured the unimaginable. We have seen it in the Palestinian refugees we work with everyday, who—despite decades of displacement—have found ways to maintain their cultural heritage, build businesses, and fight for their rights. We have seen it in the faces of survivors around the world who continue to advocate for justice, even when the world turns a blind eye. These survivors are a testament to the indomitable human spirit.

Sitti’s Response: Empowerment in the Face of Injustice

The atrocities we’ve witnessed this year further fuel our mission at Sitti to empower marginalized communities. Our focus remains on providing long-term opportunities for women in refugee camps to support themselves and their families. Through our artisanal products, we are able to offer not just a source of income but also a sense of purpose and pride. This year, we expanded our programs to include more training in business skills, leadership, and community organizing, ensuring that women are not only breadwinners but also leaders in their communities.

We recognize that economic empowerment is not a panacea for the deep scars left by genocide, but it is one piece of the puzzle. When women gain control over their economic futures, they are better equipped to advocate for their rights, protect their families, and contribute to the rebuilding of their communities. For many, it is the first step in a long journey toward healing.

Solidarity Across Borders

One of the core principles we hold at Sitti is solidarity. In a world where it’s easy to feel helpless in the face of such vast injustice, solidarity is our guide. We are committed to standing with those whose voices have been silenced—whether they are Palestinian refugees, Rohingya, Sudanese, or any other group facing persecution.

This year, we launched several initiatives to raise awareness about ongoing genocides and to amplify the voices of survivors. Through partnerships with other social enterprises and human rights organizations, we are using our platform to educate and inspire action. We’ve sponsored events, facilitated conversations, and highlighted the stories of those on the frontlines of these struggles. For us, it’s about more than selling soap—it’s about leveraging our business for good, creating a ripple effect of awareness and change.

Looking Forward: Hope Amid Despair

As we move into a new year, we hold on to hope. The road ahead is long, but we believe that change is possible. We are inspired by the incredible work of grassroots organizations, human rights defenders, and ordinary individuals who are doing everything in their power to stop the cycles of violence and rebuild their communities. We are reminded that, while genocide destroys, the human spirit can rebuild.

At Sitti Social Enterprise, we will continue to do what we can to empower, support, and stand with those who have been affected by violence and persecution. As a small social enterprise, we know that our impact may seem small in the grand scheme of things, but we believe that every action counts. Every woman who gains financial independence, every story that is told, and every product that is sold as part of our mission is a step toward a more just and equitable world.

In the face of genocide, we stand firm in our belief that hope, resilience, and empowerment can be the building blocks of a better future.

With solidarity and hope,
The Sitti Social Enterprise Team