Journalism Under Fire: Yemen’s brave journalists and the importance of solidarity

Being a journalist in Yemen is anything but easy given its repressive and volatile context. Yemen, this too often forgotten country, has been embroiled in a devastating civil war since 2014, resulting in one of the largest humanitarian crises with millions of people in dire need of humanitarian assistance. Yemen ranks at the bottom of most Human Rights indices and is one of the most dangerous environments for journalists. Despite the immense risks, journalists persist in their mission to shed light on the conflict, hold power to account and inform the public.

Wael, is a Yemeni journalist and founder of a not-for-profit online health platform that aims to report on health and well-being topics. It is not an easy task as access to healthcare information and resources are very limited. The majority population is uneducated especially women and in communities in rural areas. Wael wanted to educate the public holistically on health including both physical and mental health as well as to raise awareness on reproductive health.

However, Wael unwavering dedication came at a hight price. In Yemen, pressure and harassment on human rights activists take a heavy toll. He was soon harassed by the authorities who viewed his human rights-driven reporting with suspicion. They fabricated a case and throw him into prison. He was only released after paying a fine. Wael recalls those trying times: “It is already extremely challenging to report and make a living as a journalist in Yemen. Everything is a struggle. The constant fear adds even more stress. I could not bear this fearing atmosphere any longer. After my release, I was utterly broken and hopeless. I wanted to run away and leave the country. But as a Yemeni, the doors are closed to us and obtaining a visa is difficult. So I reached out to my friend who leads the organisation MENA-can which have a program to support journalists in danger. After a few weeks, I was able to travel to Tunisia. I could finally rest and establish new friendships. It was a transformative experience to be in Tunisia, a much more liberal country. They are very advanced in term of women’s rights and political transition compare to our situation. In Yemen, it is difficult to connect with the outside world and peers. The situation is incredibly dire and we often feel overwhelmed. I wish Yemeni journalists could have the same opportunity.”   

MENA-can stood firmly in solidarity with journalists and human rights defenders. We recognized that those who peacefully promoted freedom, justice, and peace often found themselves threatened, facing harassment, slander, or even physical violence. Baytoona is a solidarity program. For Wael, Baytoona provided a lifeline, providing him a safe and inspiring space where he could re-energize, receive tailored support, and engage with like-minded allies to reinforce his local actions for change. He stayed few weeks before to leave back stronger to Yemen.

MENA-can is a transformational hub providing capacity-building and a network of support facilitating knowledge exchange and connection for impact on local, regional, global level. 

The MENA region, with its diverse expertise and resources, offers invaluable opportunities for capacity building and network support. Whether it’s fostering skill development, facilitating knowledge exchange, or establishing robust connections, MENA stands as a pivotal hub for empowering individuals and organizations. Leveraging its rich tapestry of talents and industries, MENA excels in cultivating capabilities and nurturing networks, contributing significantly to professional growth and collaborative success on a global scale.

Inspiring and unlocking potential in Tunisia, women using tech to wider perspectives and opportunities

Sonia, like many young people in the MENA region and in Tunisia was a young graduated unemployed. She struggled to find opportunities and start despairing and thinking to go away. 

Initially hesitant and uncertain, she approached MENA-can for guidance. Through one-on-one coaching in personal development and design thinking, she found her passion ignited and her confidence soaring. She was able to hone her ideas into tangible actions and broader perspectives and job searches. She starts thinking broadly of her resources and start using technology as a tool for personal and professional growth.

With the support of MENA-can, she delved into tech literacy and entrepreneurship tailored for women. This opened doors to a world she hadn’t explored before, where she learned digital research skills, marketing strategies, and how to leverage technology for social impact.

Empowered by this knowledge, she started selling online natural products from her community. This brought her not only an income but more broadly new horizons. Her story resonated and she initiated a supportive network for other women to launch similar online businesses in their communities. Women began utilizing technology to showcase their crafts, whether it was handmade textiles, traditional artwork, or culinary delights. This collective action not only bolstered the local economy but also instilled a sense of pride in preserving and promoting their cultural identity.

Sonia’s journey symbolized the potential for change when technology, mentorship, and determination converge.

Through tailored capacity-building, MENA-can can inspire and help change-maker like Sonia to identify their passions, strengths, and areas for growth. By providing guidance in areas such as leadership development, project management, advocacy, and community engagement, MENA-can equips aspiring change makers with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively address social issues.

Empowering Kid Change-Makers in Bangladesh’s Most Marginalized Communities 

Dhaka, the bustling capital of Bangladesh, is home to over 24 million people. Despite its vibrant culture and rapid urbanization, the city also hosts one of the world’s largest populations living in slums. In these overcrowded, impoverished communities, children face the harsh realities of extreme poverty, lack of access to quality education, and the growing threat of climate change.

Many of these children are born into hardship, their voices silenced by circumstance. In a world where their stories often go untold, MENA-can saw a unique opportunity to turn them into change-makers.

A New Beginning: Empowering Young Voices 

In collaboration with a local school and community leaders, MENA-can launched the Kid Journalist Change-Maker Club, designed to empower children from 8 to 14 years old by training them in the art of storytelling through photography. These children, who wake up every day to the challenges of slum life, were handed more than just cameras—they were given a voice.

Through this project, 20 children learned how to document their environment, families, and communities, transforming their everyday struggles into inspiring stories of resilience and hope. The project was an awakening, as these young participants realized the power of their own narrative.

Storytelling Through Photography 

Their photos captured their world—their parents crafting handmade goods, streets filled with refuse, family members cooking, and neighbours supporting each other through small businesses like local grocery stalls… Each photograph they took was a window into their reality, showcasing moments of survival, strength, and shared dreams.

“It was truly inspiring to witness the energy and passion of these children brought to the project. Their curiosity and creativity seemed boundless—they had so many ideas about the stories they wanted to tell and the moments they wanted to capture through photography. By giving them the tools to express themselves, we empowered them not only to share their experiences but to envision solutions for a better future. It reminded us all that, no matter the challenges, young voices have the power to ignite change if only they get the chance…” said Saoussen the project’s leader.

Fostering resilience and participation

This project wasn’t just about teaching children how to use cameras; it was about preparing them to face these challenges head-on. It fostered confidence and unlocked the leadership potential of these young change-makers. Parents, teachers, and community members no longer saw these children as victims of their circumstances, but as active participants in shaping their community’s future.

Why This Matters 

At MENA-can, we believe that change-making is a mindset. It’s about seeing solutions where others see problems. These children, despite the challenges they face, embody that spirit. In the face of adversity, they found ways to tell their stories and inspire others to act.

By equipping them with the tools and skills to express themselves, we fostered a sense of ownership, creativity, and leadership. The Kid Journalist Change-Maker Club is a shining example of what happens when young people are given the opportunity to be the change they wish to see.

Continuing the Journey 

The success of the Kid Journalist Change-Maker Club in Dhaka is just the beginning. MENA-can is committed to expanding this program across the MENA region and beyond, empowering more children in marginalized communities to share their stories. We believe that every child has the potential to be a change-maker, and with the right support, their stories can spark global impact.

Together, we can turn stories into action, empowering the next generation of leaders to build a brighter future for all. 

Join us on this journey of empowerment, creativity, and change!