About us
OUR STORY
Hiwa Foundation is a non-governmental organisation based in the city of Sulaimani, Kurdistan, Iraq. Hiwa Rauf and our director, Nian Abdullah, with the vision to educate and empower the people of the region, founded the organisation in 2013. The couple believe that economic growth alone is not enough to rebuild a society in a region subject to political and social unrest. The organisation is built on the ethos that successful individuals within a society have a responsibility to re-invest in the people, the next generation in particular. The region in which we operate has seen some challenging periods. As we all rebuild the country, we believe it is important to invest in the potential of each individual and in the ability of people to grow, to learn, and with the right support, to transcend their circumstances, however difficult.
Since 2013, Hiwa Foundation has supported a diverse range of local projects, translated publications, produced documentaries and distributed educational materials throughout the region. We want people to have access to knowledge from all over the world, so that they can be educated, inspired and empowered.
Board members
Hiwa Rauf
Co-founder & Chairman
Hiwa Rauf
Co-founder & Chairman
Hiwa Rauf is a successful entrepreneur, holding investments in multiple companies. An innovative and driven business professional, he has over 40 years of experience in the construction industry and the telecom and trading business. His expertise has given him a unique understanding of the economic landscape of the region, and his investments into social enterprises demonstrate a core belief that the education of women and girls is one of the most effective ways to reduce the rate of poverty Having a thorough understanding of a region where the workforce is largely male-dominated, Hiwa strongly believes in the need for positive female role models to be visible to society, particularly for the young people of the region.
“Everyone understands that knowledge is power, but unless this knowledge becomes widely available and accessible throughout communities, social change will not be possible. I want to do my part to support this change, empowering women with the tools to help them access the workplace as equal members of society.”
Nian Abdulla
Co-Founder & President
Nian Abdulla
Co-Founder & President
Nian Abdullah, a chemical engineering graduate, is an experienced human resources consultant and strategist. Since graduating from the University of Baghdad in 1980, Nian has worked across a variety of sectors, from sugar mills to clothing factories, and most recently, a multinational telecommunications company. As a successful career woman, Nian has a particular understanding of the specific needs for the development of the Iraqi workforce, particularly young people just starting out in their professional careers. A highly educated woman herself, Nian believes that only with the right education and support will people be able to thrive in society. It is with this vision that Nian decided to establish Hiwa Foundation, with her co-founder and husband, Hiwa. They both saw a need to serve the people of Iraq, not only with basic civic rights, but also with the tools to inspire and encourage communities to develop coping strategies and mechanisms.
“A healthy workforce is about much more than simply the ability to work. A workforce must also be emotionally healthy, with strong communication skills and the ability to feel inspired and inspire others in their community.”
Rawand Hiwa Rauf
Finance Manager
Rawand Hiwa Rauf
Finance Manager
Rawand Hiwa Rauf stands as a beacon of dedication and expertise in the world of business and finance. He began his academic journey at Komar University, where he pursuit a Bachelor’s degree in Business Accounting. Understanding the pivotal role of advanced education in professional development, Rawand furthered his academic credentials by securing an MBA from the esteemed “ The American University of Iraq Sulaimaniyah”.
From 2009 to 2012, even while engrossed in his studies, Rawand demonstrated an impressive professional drive. He undertook a myriad of roles, navigating the complex terrains of warehouse management, sales, treasury, and finance. These multifaceted experiences endowed him with a holistic understanding of diverse business operations.
In 2017, Rawand took a strategic career turn by affiliating with Eco Pay. But his aspirations transcended the conventional corporate landscape. Demonstrating a compelling blend of business acumen and social responsibility, he associated with the Hiwa Foundation in 2018, illuminating his dedication to philanthropic initiatives.
Rawand’s professional odyssey witnessed another pivotal moment in 2019. Not only did he explore the insurance sector by integrating with Dilnia Insurance, but he also embraced the crucial role of Finance Manager for Hiwa Rauf. Holding this position from 2019 onwards, Rawand has been pivotal in steering the financial strategies and operations of the organization.
In summation, Rawand Hiwa Rauf epitomizes the attributes of a consummate professional. With an illustrious academic background and a rich tapestry of professional experiences spanning over 14 years, particularly in business accounting, he remains a cornerstone in every professional endeavor he undertakes.
Our People
Shiereen Saib
Managing Director
Shiereen Saib
Managing Director
Although Shiereen Saib was born Sulaimani, she was raised and educated in The Netherlands where she obtained her degree in Political Science at the University of Amsterdam. A refugee herself, she has remained a passionate advocate of the strength of diversity and an empowered diaspora, becoming the national coordinator of the Youth Council at the Federation of Refugee Organisations at the age of 16. She has served as a legal consultant at the Dutch Refugee Council, and has over 20 years of experience developing and managing projects for a number of organisations in Europe, centering social participation, empowerment and diversity. In 2014 she returned to her hometown, where she first helped set up the Center for Gender and Development Studies at the American University of Iraq, Sulaimani. In 2016 she became working with Hiwa Foundation, first as a consultant and later as the Head of Programmes.
Shiereen’s involvement in Hiwa Foundation has been warmly welcomed as she has brought with her a wealth of experience in not only project management but also as a trainer and facilitator. She also has broad experience in developing community projects using different forms of art as a starting point. Shiereen has a passion for modern art, travelling and reading.
“As we tend to feel helpless in the face of tragedies of war and trauma, we should not overlook the fact that such circumstances also provide us with the opportunity to bring out the best in ourselves and inspire others to do the same. A community that is trying to heal is also a community very keen to learn, grow and flourish. It is a privilege to be working in a region where people have shown great resilience in the face of adversity.”
Chra Akram
Head of Projects and Training
Chra Akram
Head of Projects and Training
Chra Akram is a highly qualified and experienced professional with a strong passion for project management and youth development. She holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration with a specialization in marketing from the American University of Iraq-Sulaimani. With a proven track record in project management, Chra has honed her skills in project planning, execution, monitoring, and reporting, along with proficiency in project management methodologies and tools.
Chra’s impressive career includes her work at Komar University of Science and Technology before joining the Hiwa Foundation team. At Hiwa Foundation, she established a successful training center aimed at empowering youth by fostering their professional and personal growth. She manages the trainings and programs of the center, ensuring their effectiveness and impact. She has also made significant contributions to the foundation, starting as a Communication Officer and quickly excelling in various projects. Her pivotal role in the development and establishment of new projects within the foundation has been commendable.
Chra’s educational background, coupled with her extensive experience in project management and youth development, exemplifies her belief in a holistic approach to education. She understands that education goes beyond imparting knowledge and skills, and encompasses the overall well-being and supportive environment for youth.
Rooz Muhammed
Creative Project Coordinator
Rooz Muhammed
Creative Project Coordinator
Rooz first was introduced to hiwa Foundation as a student at the College of Fine Arts at the University of Sulaimani, as member an exchange group that went to Germany. After graduating as top of her class in the Graphics and Design department, in the summer of 2018, she joined Hiwa Foundation as the Art & Design officer. She is responsible for the design of all the foundation’s productions. She is also responsible for the coordination of Karge Comics Studio, a joint project between Hiwa Foundation and Paia Agency. Since her teenage years Rooz has been involved as a volunteer in a range of cultural and community projects. She is hoping to start her Masters in the coming years and develop herself more as an artist. She is continuously improving her design skills as well.
“Art of all kinds – music, literature, traditional arts, visual arts – are tools for any generation to express their feelings of identity. In our community, that is affected by many forms of trauma, art gives people a great sense of power. “
Our Partners
