June 21, 2021
News
Our Logistics Assistant, Shirman Mohammed, is 25 year old. He is from the Syrian town of Qamishlo and began his Internship with Caritas Czech Republic in Iraq September 2020. He is currently enjoying his one-year anniversary. We spoke with him about his year with Caritas and how he became a Logistics Assistant.
What did you do before working at Caritas Czech Republic and how did you end up in Iraq?
I am from Qamishlo, Syria, a place that we affectionately name the city of love.
Due to the crisis and fighting, I was unable to complete my Petroleum Engineering degree in Syria, as the city where my university was located was under ISIS control. I've been in Kurdistan, Iraq, for more than seven years now.
It was at Salahaddin University in Erbil that I studied Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering. With an average of 75 percent, I was the third-best student in my college when I graduated in 2019. At Caritas Czech Republic in Iraq, I'm now a logistics assistant for the organization.
How did you get this job at Caritas Czech Republic and did you face any employment challenges?
I started as an intern at Caritas Czech Republic.My journey with Caritas began when I took a course with the Spark Organization. The top students would have an opportunity to get an internship with an NGO or a company. I was one of the top students, so I was given a chance to begin my internship at Caritas first in the Livelihood department for four months, then in the Logistics and procurement department for few other months. And after gaining experience and passing interviews, I was promoted to be the Logistics Assistant.
Challenges of employment in Iraq and all Middle East are somehow the same.
As it is difficult to find a job even if you are qualified especially for the recent graduates.
Why did you choose to work in the field of humanitarian aid?
Growing up, I lived in a community that was plagued by poverty. So, I've always wanted to be on the front lines, helping those who are most in need of support and assistance, whether it's because of the economic situation or war.
What have you learned through your experience as an intern at Caritas?
I've mastered a variety of skills that have enabled me to work in the humanitarian sector. In the livelihood department I learned how we are going to support vulnerable communities through different projects such as providing framers with agricultural materials, establishment greenhouses, small and medium enterprises, and multi-purpose cash assistance. In the logistics and procurement department, I learnt all procurement processes, including asset tracking and storage, fleet management, payment follow-up, contacting and negotiating with suppliers, and monitoring and managing Caritas offices and guesthouses.
What do you like the most about your job?
I enjoy the fact that I am able to work in the humanitarian area. As a result, we may play a significant part in reclaiming the lives of vulnerable communities by collaborating with a strong team that you support and that supports you back.
Do you want to add anything?
Because the humanitarian aid plays a critical role in rehabilitating and revitalizing communities and improving people's lives, I encourage anybody who wishes to make a difference, assist, and support communities worldwide to join this sector!
