The group of Rohingya women we’ve been working with over the past few days face a lot of challenges. One of them is light – there is very little light on their block, and no formal security barriers between them and the rest of the camp. Their safety is often at risk.
When we spoke with the women about their biggest challenges, they often talked about their safety. Having lost their husbands, these women often feel vulnerable.
So we had an idea, and one that we’ve tested a few times in places like Uganda and Somalia – headlamps!
Thanks to The Shine On Project, we gave out Watts of Love headlamps to some of the most vulnerable women in the group.
And they were so excited – they said they would use it for many things, including working inside, sewing, walking at night, and going to the latrines. “It will be very useful!” they said.
The headlamps were put to use right away, assembling the sewing machines. It was exciting to see that they wanted to use them for sewing, because it’s quite dark inside their shelters.
We so easily take for granted the ability to flip a switch and illuminate a room. For these ladies, that’s simply not possible. This was a small tool that makes a big difference – giving them the freedom and confidence that light provides.
