Iraq

Rêber Jahwar grew up in Iraq, a country torn by conflict. But that did not stop him from pursuing his dream of becoming a “computer geek” in the traditional sense of the word and enrolling in computer science studies at the University of Duhok. Currently, Rêber works at Women for Women International and manages one of the departments of the country office. He coordinates various activities within the organization, such as monitoring projects, developing accountability tools, and contributing to research aimed at finding marginalized women who could be included in future projects. Previously, he worked at a German NGO, Welthungerhilfe, where he started as a Senior Database Office before rising to become a MEAL expert, managing M&E activities of more than six projects in different areas of Iraq. He has also worked as a software engineer in a private IT company. Rêber discovered his passion for humanitarian work after his country experienced yet another crisis in 2014 when the so-called Islamic State took over large parts of northern Iraq. Rêber has worked as a Database Officer and Analyst, as well as a Monitoring & Evaluation Officer for NGO ACTED and PIN. Rêber strives to connect technology, humanitarian aid, and communities in need and provide leadership to his community. Driven by his passion, he motivates his colleagues with his professional commitment and innovative mindset.

Ahmed Hassoon, a public health consultant, with more than seven years of experience serving vulnerable groups at different capacity for multiple sectors in Iraq. Ahmed earned a degree in General Medicine and Surgery from Baghdad School of Medicine in Iraq. He studied International Health & Development at Tulane School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine in the United States and is an internationally certified Project Manager (PMP) by the Project Management Institute. His certifications include: Disaster Planning, Global Development & Social Justice, International Development, Monitoring and Evaluation from Tulane University, Emory University, the United State Government, and USAID, respectively. While working at the Iraqi Ministry of Health and several major international organizations, he helped during the conflict and post conflict transition after the 2003 war by focusing on health services for war victims, internally displaced persons,, returnees, women, and children. Ahmed currently works for International Relief and Development as a Health Consultant. He also worked as the Iraq Operations Manager for International Rescue Committee, Capacity Building Coordinator for the Iraqi Ministry of Health, IDP’s Clinic Manager for INTERSOS, and Foundation House Officer for the Iraqi Ministry of Health in several Iraqi Hospitals. Through his field work and education, Ahmed developed a wide experience in public health program design, proposal writing, project management, operations, coordination, business development, and grant management. Ahmed has been awarded the prestigious Hubert Humphrey Fellowship (2010) by the United States Department of State for his dedication to public service in Iraq. Ahmed is fluent in English and Arabic.

Host Organization: International Relief and Development