Alhamdulillah for the opportunity to have integrated Islamic Mental Health and Psychosocial Support once again into Teach Peace Build Peace Movement’s training program focused on the aftercare of children and youth returnees, and their families.

Considering that this is our second training (with the first one being almost three years ago followed by the pilot implementation), it’s a win to have this time not just those who’ll be directly working with communities but also those who can work towards the much-needed institutionalization of the aftercare program. This is especially timely with the growing global call to integrate MHPSS into all sectors, including peacebuilding.

The 5-day training also became an opportunity for participants to not just gain beneficial knowledge and skills needed for aftercare implementation, but also to reflect on their own well-being and to learn and correct common misconceptions about Islam. It was truly heartwarming to hear non-Muslim participants share the realization that Islam is actually a peaceful way of life encompassing all dimensions of well-being, and that their learnings can be applied even in their personal lives, Alhamdulillah.

There was a time when we felt so frustrated and helpless, not knowing how we can address better not just Islamophobia but also the extremism that gives a very wrong depiction of Islam. Who would’ve thought we’d reach this day when it would be different GOs, NGOs or CSOs recognizing the need and requesting for partnerships. And, who would’ve thought an advocacy I loved doing in my youth would be something I’d still get to do with my family now. SubhanAllaahi wa bihamdih, countless times.

Thank you to our dearest TPBPM family, their co-implementers, GCERF and Australian Aid, and TPBPM peace partners from different sectors, including the returnees and their families themselves. Much work is still needed, but with more and more stakeholders coming together, we’re hopeful we’ll all get there together…with, through, and for The Almighty. Ameen.