May 1, 2025 News

At 23 years old, Martin from Iraq is the sole provider for his entire family. Caritas Czech Republic helped him open a clothing store

Martin is a successful young entrepreneur; with the help of Caritas Czech Republic, he opened his own clothing store in Karakosh, Iraq. He moved to the city after its liberation from ISIS. Through his work, he earns a living not only for himself but also for his father and two brothers with disabilities.

After the liberation of Karakosh, Martin returned to the city and opened a shop in its centre

Martin returned to Karakosh, the centre of Iraq’s Christian community, after its liberation from the rule of the so-called Islamic State, which had occupied the city for two years. Today, Martin lives in the city with his large family, which faces a difficult situation, as the family’s father and two sons, Martin’s brothers, live with disabilities. Martin is the only one who works and hence supports the entire family with his income.

Martin used to work as a labourer, but about two years ago, with the help of Caritas Czech Republic, he managed to open his own clothing shop in the centre of Karakosh. The new job helped him provide for his family, but in the future, he hopes to move the store to a different location to increase his earnings. Martin mentions that many people have left the area, and as a result, the income is not as high as it could be.

“I work in the shop alone, six days a week, I only have Sundays off. But often, my father comes to keep me company, he drinks tea with me and lifts my spirit,” says Martin about his work.

Caritas Czech Republic provided Martin with training and financial support

Thanks to the training, Martin learned how to manage his business and gained other business skills as well. The training also helped young Ghufran to get back on her feet. After completing it, Martin received a financial contribution from Caritas Czech Republic, which allowed him to buy clothes to sell. Later, he received two more grants from Caritas Czech Republic and its partners, which enabled him to expand his business.

“Thank you so much for your help. Your support was so great that words of thanks are not enough,” adds Martin, addressing Caritas Czech Republic. Saman from Iraq went through a similar journey as Martin. 

Caritas Czech Republic in Iraq

Caritas Czech Republic was able to help Martin thanks to the support from the Agenzia Italiana per la Cooperazione allo Sviluppo (AICS) in cooperation with Condivisione fra i popoli (CFP) within the project for the social and economic inclusion of vulnerable Christian minorities in Iraq.

In Iraq, we supported small enterprises and family businesses. For instance, thanks to our support, Rama was able to restore his family carpentry business and now makes furniture for houses all across the region.  