SPARK has been running campaigns in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq for over seven years, working with local and international partners to address key challenges faced by youth. These campaigns have addressed a wide range of challenges—from social behaviours like short-temperedness to the lack of work opportunities and the risks of illegal migration. Throughout, they have consistently centred on youth, offering them space to speak out, influence change in their communities, and advocate for peaceful, moderate approaches to social issues.

In February, campaigners from the Work for Work campaign under the Networks of Change II programme had a particularly active month. From media training in Erbil to events in Ranya, Chamchamal, and Halabja, they engaged directly with young people through workshops, career fairs, and discussions. These activities, organised in partnership with the Civil Development Organisation (CDO), focused on career development, job readiness, and the role of youth in shaping their future.

A Gateway to Work – Chamchamal

The first event, A Gateway to Work, was held  in Chamchamal with over 50 young participants attending practical sessions on writing CVs and cover letters, searching for jobs, and preparing for interviews. The workshop aimed to equip them with essential skills to improve their employability and job prospects. After the workshop Chiya Adnan, a 24 year-old participant shared his thoughts on the workshop  stating, 

“Now I can attend job interviews more confidently as I’m familiar with effective CV writing and cover letter technique.” 

The event created a supportive environment where young people could ask questions, share experiences, and receive tailored advice on navigating the job market. It also encouraged a mindset shift, helping participants view career planning as a proactive and achievable process. For many, it was a crucial first step towards building a more secure professional future.

A Bridge to Experience – Halabja

In Halabja, the campaign held an internship fair that brought together more than 100 young people and five private sector companies from industries such as construction, education, medical services, and manufacturing.

The event gave youth a chance to directly engage with employers, ask questions, and learn more about available internship and job opportunities. It also encouraged companies to look at local youth as a valuable asset for their growth.

The strong turnout demonstrated a real appetite among young people for hands-on experience, and the fair reinforced the need for stronger links between youth initiatives and the private sector to create more accessible pathways into employment.

Youths Are Solution Finders – Ranya

In Ranya, the campaign culminated in a symposium that brought together students, universities, local authorities, and private sector leaders to explore how to better support youth employment and strengthen career networks. The event opened with a panel discussion on cross-sector collaboration, where speakers shared insights on aligning education with the needs of the labour market and the importance of developing practical skills early on.

The second half of the day shifted focus to youth-driven innovation through a hackathon. Seven student teams took the stage to pitch ideas aimed at improving community engagement and economic opportunities for young people. It was a moment that placed youth not just at the table – but at the forefront of problem-solving.

For many attendees, the event marked their first time interacting with both public and private sector representatives in such an open and constructive environment.

“These kinds of activities are crucial for youth,” said 19-year-old Basoz Muhamad, reflecting on the value of the experience. “They strengthen relationships between students from different departments and offer a great opportunity to network with both private and public sectors.”

Her takeaway echoed one of the day’s key goals: to break down silos between disciplines and sectors and build a more connected ecosystem of support for young people.

Among the standout hackathon participants was 22-year-old Ayub Ali, who, along with his teammates from Raparin University, proposed a project focused on equipping youth with career planning tools at the high school level. “Today we were able to present effective ideas that contribute to youth employment,” he said proudly. “I’m pleased that our project was among the best.” His enthusiasm captured the spirit of the day – one defined by practical creativity, ambition, and a shared belief in youth as part of the solution.

Looking Ahead

These events stood out because they gave young people a real chance to participate, connect, and take initiative. From building core career skills to engaging with employers and presenting their own ideas for change, participants walked away with new tools—and a clearer sense of direction.

The Work for Work campaign is helping young people see themselves as more than jobseekers. They’re contributors, problem-solvers, and future leaders. By focusing on practical support and meaningful collaboration across sectors, the campaign is helping to build a more responsive and inclusive path to employment.

SPARK and its partners will continue to support youth-led efforts that strengthen communities and expand opportunities, keeping young people at the centre of long-term development across the region.