In the hot summer of 2018, I arrived at a Yazidi refugee camp near Duhok, intent on empowering the families there. It was then I met Ahlem, a 14-year-old girl with kind eyes and a remarkable talent for art. We sat in her family's small white trailer, escaping the July heat, and delved into her world of paintings. Her artwork, a vivid representation of Ezidi identity, portrayed the recent genocide, cultural richness, celebrations, traditional clothing, sacred practices, and the struggles of life in the camps.

During our discussions, Ahlem's words left a profound impact on me. With her family's consent, we selected artwork for sale and kept some for her. Ahlem set the prices, and through social media, we showcased her work to the world. Her story and art resonated globally, attracting interest from celebrities and art lovers in Brazil, Australia, New York City, and Los Angeles.

We sold digital copies of her paintings, covering shipping costs and ensuring Ahlem received all profits. Today, Ahlem continues her artistic journey, her talent acknowledged and cherished. Our bond, formed in those significant moments, endures, maintained through our ongoing communication on Facebook.