Supporting refugee women

This is what it's all about.

EmpowerVan was founded to help refugee women in camps across Greece and Europe protect themselves and regain their autonomy. During the pandemic, the founder, Claude, decided to move to Greece to support refugee communities through movement and sport.

The project offers self-defense and empowerment courses that not only teach women practical skills but also strengthen their self-confidence and help them assert their rights. EmpowerVan focuses on long-term support and creating a safe space where women can learn to defend themselves and raise their voices.

The goal of EmpowerVan is not just to provide short-term help but to give women the tools they need to defend themselves and improve their quality of life sustainably. Through crowdfunding, EmpowerVan aims to expand and reach more camps, helping as many women as possible.

My project is special because ...

This project is special because it not only provides short-term support to women in refugee camps but also empowers them in the long term. Through self-defense and empowerment, they learn practical skills that help them protect themselves, boost their self-confidence, and regain their autonomy. In an environment often marked by insecurity and violence, the project offers a way for them to claim their rights and raise their voices.

It should be realized because it has a direct, positive impact on these women’s lives. With the right tools and a safe space, they can actively improve their living conditions. Such initiatives are essential for promoting gender equality, strengthening the rights of refugees, and creating lasting change. Your support makes this difference possible.

Switzerland is also an important part of our network, as it plays a central role in promoting projects that support women’s rights and refugee assistance. With EmpowerVan, we want to not only help women in refugee camps but also build a bridge between Switzerland and the affected regions.

Through crowdfunding, we aim to gain support from Switzerland and beyond to further expand our project and reach more camps. Switzerland is a key part of our commitment and vision for EmpowerVan.

This is what I need backing for.

The funds raised will be directly invested in conducting empowerment and self-defense courses for women in refugee camps and other marginalized communities. Specifically, the money will be used for the following areas:

Seminar and Course Materials: We need materials for practical self-defense units, such as mats, protective pads, and training aids, as well as resources for delivering theoretical knowledge on communication, de-escalation, and self-protection. Transport and Logistics: Since our courses are held in various refugee camps and communities across Greece, a portion of the funds will cover transportation costs, travel, and accommodation to bring the team to different locations. Qualified Trainers and Professionals: Part of the budget will go towards compensating experienced trainers and specialists who conduct these essential courses. Their expertise in self-defense and empowerment is crucial to providing the best possible training for participants. Van Costs and Infrastructure: To ensure we can work in safe, accessible, and appropriate spaces, some of the funds will be used for renting seminar rooms or organizing outdoor activities and for infrastructure in the van. Support Programs and Psychological Assistance: Many participants also need psychological support to cope with traumatic experiences. A portion of the funds will be allocated to such professional services. Future Expansion: If the project is successful, the funds will also support the expansion of the programs to additional refugee camps and disadvantaged regions across Europe. Every donation helps strengthen the safety, confidence, and autonomy of women, giving them the opportunity to actively defend their rights.