Women of the World

Bassima

Bassima, a Palestinian Muslim from a rural village in the West Bank and a Regional Field Officer for the IOCC, started as a volunteer health education trainer with Catholic Relief Services and now works in a supervisory position as a community educator. 

Her desire for education motivated her to work on 8th, 9th and 10th grade curriculum simultaneously so she could finally finish her studies.  In spite of cultural obstacles, Bassima was the first woman in her family to work outside the home and the first woman in her village to drive a car.  She has become a respected figure in villages throughout the West Bank in matters regarding health and social issues and has gained the trust of both women and men through her unyielding passion to help others, her credibility and persuasive personality.