September 4, 2025
News
In the aisles of a shopping mall in Mosul, Iraq, Mahmoud moved steadily between shelves and deliveries, overseeing the sale of chips and snacks. Like many young people in Iraq, Mahmoud once faced unemployment and uncertainty. But thanks to an on-the-job training programme supported by Caritas Czech Republic, he found a stable job and a clearer path forward.
Building a foundation through experience
Mahmoud’s journey began through a 31-day on-the-job training programme in Mosul. Prior to the training, Mahmoud had worked informally in small shops. “It was daily work, not a private business or anything stable,” he explained. But after receiving Life Skills training from Caritas Czech Republic at a vocational training centre, he was placed in a supermarket for a month-long internship. His performance and eagerness to learn quickly made an impression on the employer, who offered him a full-time position.
Over time, Mahmoud became responsible for managing the chip sales department. His duties included handling incoming deliveries from large suppliers, organizing inventory, and ensuring customers could find the products they needed.
“I learned how to communicate with customers and sales representatives,” Mahmoud says. “Now I know how to support people when they’re looking for something specific, how to handle trade and protect the product. I like the business side of this work.”
He also appreciated the clean and professional work environment. “It’s comfortable here. I come every day.”
Looking ahead with ambition
Mahmoud lives with his family of nine, and his job has brought stability to their household. Like many young people in Iraq, he faced significant challenges due to unemployment and displacement, but the job training gave him direction.
He now hopes to save money and open his own stationery business one day. “I want to start something for myself, something I enjoy,” he says with determination. “I will marry and support a family of my own, so I need to prepare for the future.”
Reflecting on the programme, Mahmoud expressed his gratitude. “This experience with Caritas Czech Republic was a great thing in my life. It gave me the support I needed. I completed the training, and I’ve now been working here for eight months.”
Lasting impact in Iraq
With targeted training, mentorship, and opportunities for real employment, Caritas Czech Republic helped young Iraqis find the employment they needed to restart their lives and contribute to their communities. Unemployment remains the biggest issue in Iraq today and that is why these types of initiatives are vital.
Caritas Czech Republic’s work contributed to the economic recovery and social inclusion of vulnerable communities across Iraq. Through training, job placement, and the promotion of small businesses, we helped individuals rebuild their lives in Iraq.
