She came to Türkiye at the age of 14 and had to discontinue her education. Today, she is 26 years old and is both a mother and a father to 5-year-old Yusuf* and 4-year-old Lina*. During her most difficult moments, she finds comfort in a particular song. “Emmi” by Lebanese artist and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Nancy Ajram, dedicated to her own mother… It means “my mother” in Arabic. It describes a mother’s love for her child, her efforts, and her determination to never give up despite everything. For Rana, this song is more than just a melody; it is a voice that reminds her of the power of motherhood during her most difficult times.
The most difficult period in her life was when she noticed a delay in Lina’s development. She did not know where to seek support or how the process would unfold. She was faced with financial difficulties, but the uncertainty weighed even heavier. She wanted to take the right step for her daughter’s future, yet she felt alone at the same time. One night, after the children had gone to sleep, she listened to “Emmi.” At that very moment, the song stirred a completely different feeling within her. And her decision was clear: no matter what, she would not give up; she would rewrite her unfinished story for her children.
Shortly afterwards, the family was reached through the collaboration of Save the Children Türkiye and the Association for Social Development and Aid Mobilization (ASAM). Project field workers closely monitored the process. Financial support was provided in line with the family’s urgent needs, and the basic needs of the household and children were met. Medical check-ups were planned upon suspicion of a developmental delay in Lina, and the process continued to be closely monitored to ensure that the necessary examinations were conducted.
For Rana, what mattered most was securing her daughter’s future. Appropriate referrals were made to access healthcare services, and all steps were taken together. “For the first time, both my children and I slept peacefully. My fear subsided. It was one of the happiest moments of my life,” says Rana.
Difficulties have not disappeared in a single day, and Lina’s health journey is still ongoing. However, there is no longer any uncertainty. Project field workers maintain regular contact with the family to monitor the process. Regular follow-up is conducted, and a concrete roadmap exists. Yusuf’s preschool education is also being planned together with project staff, ensuring that the family’s steps towards the future are shaped through holistic support.
Rana attends community engagement trainings organized by project staff, regularly being informed about means of access to available services, particularly education, health, and social services. She may not have become a doctor, but she is currently able to manage the most critical phase in her children’s lives with the precision of a doctor. She is her children’s strongest advocate and guide. March 8 is not a day to applaud powerful women; it is an opportunity to remember the efforts of women who silently bear the heaviest burdens.
A mother’s determination can change the future of her children.
And certain songs are sung for a lifetime.