Disclaimer: Aliases have been used in this testimony to protect the identity of the individuals involved

The village of Talilit is situated in the Al Haouz province, within the rural commune of Amizmiz of Morocco. This mountainous region is where a significant number of individuals perished and lost their homes as a result of the earthquake that struck Morocco. Two sisters-in-law, Amal and Laila, were among those who experienced the consequences of the catastrophic earthquake that disrupted their lives and those of their community. They resided in the same home, sharing not only a physical space but also the emotional burden of rebuilding their lives in the wake of the devastation.

While both women were profoundly affected, Amal's resilience and determination were particularly noteworthy, inspiring those around her. Her name, which translates to "Hope" in Arabic, was particularly apt, as she personified the essence of hope and resilience in the most profound manner. The psychosocial empowerment workshop served as a cathartic experience, enabling her to transcend the trauma and stress associated with the earthquake and embark on a new chapter of life.

The four-day Psychosocial Empowerment Workshop was a transformative experience for her. During the workshop, she developed the confidence and practical skills needed to pursue her goals, ultimately motivating her to start her own WhatsApp business. She began to apply what she had learned about resilience, goal setting, and adaptability. The workshop helped her envision a future in which she could create change, meaning that the workshop had inspired her and equipped her with the mindset and tools to succeed in her business journey.

Given the limited access to technology and resources in the village, the odds appeared to be stacked against her. Nevertheless, Amal was determined not to allow this to impede her progress. She elected to utilize the sole technological instrument at her disposal: the social media platform WhatsApp.

Notwithstanding skepticism from her neighbors and family regarding the feasibility of conducting business online—a concept alien to their village—Amal remained undaunted. She taught herself how to navigate the platform, connected with vendors, and gradually began to establish her own e-commerce enterprise by joining a company called Oriflame via WhatsApp. She commenced the sale of perfumes and makeup, showcasing her products to customers situated beyond her village.

Her journey was not without challenges. She faced difficulties in learning how to communicate with clients, manage orders, and overcome the logistical issues of delivering products from a rural area. However, with each sale, Amal gained confidence.

Her success not only provided a new income source for her family but also inspired her sister-in-law, Laila, to embark on her own journey towards healing and resilience. Laila started to believe in her inner potentials and believe in herself more As she began to invest in herself, her confidence slowly blossomed. Through Amal’s determination, both sisters-in-law learned the power of adaptability and hope.