For three days, participants engaged in comprehensive training led by experts from the Turkish Directorate of Disaster and Emergency Management (AFAD). The program aimed to equip women with the necessary skills to handle and recover from various disasters, whether natural, man-made, or technological.
“We chose women from the start, recognizing their unique vulnerabilities and their critical role in helping themselves and others during disasters,” remarked Maria Stefanidou, co-founder of GO Alive. “Targeting the youth is essential for ensuring a safer future for all.”
An Engaging and Interactive Training Experience
The training was meticulously designed to be both educational and engaging, featuring a blend of hands-on activities and interactive sessions. Participants delved into essential topics such as disaster preparedness, risk management, and recovery strategies. The
training emphasized real-world applications and included activities like simulated disaster scenarios and teamwork exercises.
“We received invaluable insights from the trainees, which will help us improve future sessions,” noted Gözde Gür Gürbüz, one of the AFAD trainers. “The enthusiasm and participation were truly inspiring.”
Addressing a Critical Need
Statistics show that women and children are 14 times more likely to die in disasters than men, highlighting the urgent need for targeted education and empowerment. This program is a part of a broader effort to address these disparities by providing women with
the tools they need to survive and thrive during crises.
Future Plans and Continued Collaboration
The initial training in Greece is just the beginning. GO Alive and its partners have planned future sessions, including an upcoming event in Italy in October focusing on school evacuation drills, and a final assessment meeting in Portugal by June 2025. Additionally, GO Alive aims to train 250 more women in Greece on disaster awareness.
“Our country faces numerous disasters, making education and preparedness crucial” emphasized Maria Stefanidou. “As a civil society organisation, we are committed to informing and educating the youth, who are our primary target group.”
A Collaborative Effort with AFAD
AFAD, the Turkish Disaster and Emergency Directorate, played a pivotal role in the training. Established in 2009, AFAD is dedicated to effective emergency management and civil protection in Turkey. The AFAD team from Manisa, including search and rescue technician Serdar Aksu and provincial director Osman Pihtili, provided expert guidance and training.
Gözde Gür Gürbüz, reflecting on the success of the program, expressed gratitude towards GO Alive for their excellent cooperation. “The training was full of effective methods and friendly faces ready to learn and participate” he remarked.
The participation of our CEO and HR in this initiative shows our organisation’s commitment to empowering young women in disaster situations. By sharing their experiences from Greece, they aim to inspire and prepare more women to face adversity with confidence and resilience, ensuring a safer and more prepared community.