As the conflict in Syria escalates, millions have been forced to flee, leaving behind precious memories of home. Meet one Syrian woman who was able to save her children from the brutal war. "I was very scared when I left my country. People were screaming everywhere. I left my home, I left my neighborhood, my childhood, my memories; I left everything," she said.

Bothina Matar taught English in Syria before she and her young family fled the war and resettled in Texas. Now she trains refugee women hired by Gaia, the Dallas-based fashion accessories company where she works, and has become a mentor to other newcomers. Watch and share her inspiring story.  

The situation in Venezuela is increasingly dire. Meet Andrea, one of more than one million Venezuelans who felt they had no choice but to leave everything behind and start a new life in neighboring Colombia. This is her story.

“When the body, mind and soul are in balance, then a person is happy.” After leaving her home and husband in Ukraine due to war, yoga has helped Khrystyna stay calm during uncertain times. The IRC and Citi Foundation support Khrystyna in her business teaching yoga, as she helps others use it to find happiness. Learn more about Khrystyna's story.

After losing her brother and baby due to conflict in Cameroon, Fadi is rebuilding her life by setting up her shop. Now her business is the only one in the village run by a woman.

After fleeing the war in Ukraine for Greece with her family, Alisa wanted to find a purpose that helped her focus on the future. As a trained interior designer, she found home staging for holiday lets in Greece. And with support from the IRC and Citi Foundation, she’s enjoying her new business venture. “When I see the result before and after, I really get a lot of satisfaction because I am pleased with myself and the result.

Families in Somalia are facing theCOVID-19 pandemic, conflict and hunger.