August 11, 2025
News
In the busy aisles of a shopping mall in Mosul, Iraq, Emad moves confidently between neatly stacked shelves and rows of textiles. Just a few years ago, Emad was one of many young people in Iraq struggling with unemployment and a lack of opportunities. Today, at 24 years old, he manages the textiles department in a supermarket, which he was able to do thanks to an on-the-job training programme supported by Caritas Czech Republic.
A turning point through training
Emad’s journey began with a 31-day work-based learning programme, part of Caritas Czech Republic’s broader efforts to support meaningful employment opportunities for individuals looking to rebuild their lives.
“The training changed everything for me,” Emad recalls. “Before, I was doing daily work,nothing stable. But this training opened a new door. I went from being unemployed to having a sustainable job.”
During his time in training, Emad was placed directly in the supermarket where he now works. There, he learned how to handle customers, manage products, and understand the principles of retail including pricing, presentation, communication, and sales strategies.
From trainee to department head
Emad’s commitment and enthusiasm did not go unnoticed. By the end of his training period, the employer offered him a permanent position. Over the past year, he has grown into a leadership role, now managing the entire textiles division and overseeing product sales, price setting, and departmental coordination.
“It was a challenge at first,” he admits, “but I achieved it. Now I manage this section independently. I’ve even helped expand it, what started as a small department is now a major section of the store.”
Emad’s favourite part of the job includes learning how to manage sales and communicate with customers, especially elderly people. “Now I’m looking to the future as I want to open my own business one day,” he states with determination.
Support that creates impact
Emad lives with his large family of 15, including his married brother and young nephew. Having a steady job means more than just income; it brings stability to the household and hope for a better future.
Reflecting on the training experience, Emad acknowledges its value: “I learned a lot because I was active, I pushed myself. It’s also important to have employers who are ready to teach.”
Unemployment remains one of the biggest challenges facing youth in Iraq today, making programmes like this essential for equipping young people with the tools to build their own futures.
And for Emad, the journey is only just beginning. “I want to gain more experience,” he says with a smile, “and then start something of my own. This is just the first step.”
Caritas Czech Republic in Iraq
Caritas Czech Republic supported economic recovery and social inclusion across Iraq. By focusing on training, job placement, and small business development, we empowered individuals and strengthen communities.
Caritas Czech Republic and its partners helped individuals turn short-term training into long-term employment such as Emad. Together, we can continue to help people get the access they need to rebuild their lives with even more than just one month of training.
We supported Emad thanks to the financial support of Prospect ILO –International Labour Organization in Iraq with the support of the Government of Netherlands.
