From Adversity to Triumph: Empowering Dler

Introduction:

Meet Dler Awsman, a remarkable individual whose indomitable spirit and resilience have conquered unimaginable challenges. As a Yazidi internally displaced person from Iraq, Dler survived the horrific genocide by ISIS in 2014. Despite the odds stacked against him, Dler's pursuit of education and his passion for making a positive impact on the world has never wavered. He recently graduated with flying colours from the College of Idaho, majoring in International Political Economy, and has been accepted into the Sociology MA: Political Economy and Globalization program at the University of Tennessee with a full ride! Now, he needs your help to take the next step in his journey!

Chapter 1: Triumph Over Adversity

Dler was born into a Yazidi family in northern Iraq in 1999. His early years were marked by turmoil, as he witnessed the American invasion of Iraq in 2003 and the ensuing instability following Saddam Hussein's regime removal. The period between 2005 and 2007 brought the Iraq Civil War, during which Dler's religious minority group and region faced hostility from Al-Qaida and other terrorist organizations.

At the age of 15, Dler endured the harrowing ordeal of surviving the Yazidi Genocide perpetrated by the Islamic State in 2014. Trapped on Mount Sinjar with his family and hundreds of thousands of his community for over seven days, he eventually sought refuge in the northern Iraqi city of Sulaymaniyah, living for more than three years as an internally displaced person (IDP). This period of displacement was fraught with challenges, and Dler, at a young age, worked as a bakery worker and farmer to support his vulnerable family.

These critical, traumatic, and transformative experiences sparked profound questions within Dler and ignited an intense interest in understanding the political, economic, and social phenomena that gave rise to these atrocities and many others that have characterized the 21st century. Moreover, Dler aspired to find avenues to amplify the voices of marginalized and oppressed communities and individuals who have been victims of such heinous acts.

Despite the daunting struggles he faced and the heartbreaking loss of loved ones during the genocide, Dler discovered a deep well of inner strength that fueled his resolve to persevere. Driven by his desire to give voice to the voiceless and seek answers within himself, he embraced an unwavering determination to forge a brighter future through education and intellectual growth. The transformative journey of change and empowerment commenced when he received his acceptance to the UWC schools in 2017.

Chapter 2: A Beacon of Hope at UWC Adriatic

In March 2017, Dler was selected as one of the first two Yazidi students to join the esteemed United World College of Adriatic (UWC Adriatic) in Italy. This institution is among the 19 UWC schools worldwide committed to using education as a catalyst to unite people, nations, and cultures for a peaceful and sustainable future.

As one of the pioneering Yazidis within this global movement, Dler's intellectual horizons expanded, fostering new friendships and bridging cultural divides. Despite the challenges posed by language and differing worldviews, he embraced an active role within the UWC community, enriching his own growth in the process.

Beyond academic excellence, Dler became an instrumental force in shaping the UWC Adriatic community through his involvement in small projects alongside fellow UWCers, contributing to social services and advocating for various human rights issues in the Middle East. His passionate advocacy also extended to championing the rights and concerns of the Yazidi community.

The following are some notable moments from Dler's UWC journey that have left an enduring impact:

Dler delivered a powerful presentation on his personal experiences during the Yazidi genocide, shedding light on the atrocities perpetrated by ISIS and the broader issues facing Iraq in the 21st century.

During this week-long project in Turin, Italy, Dler and his peers addressed lesser-known global issues that often go unreported in mainstream media. His presentation focused on the war in Iraq and the Yazidi genocide, offering a poignant account of his survival and journey to education.

Dler, along with his friends Fatima Zahra Al-Maliani and Maria, spearheaded a week-long initiative to support the Romani community in the eastern Romanian city of Baia Mare. This underserved community faced severe poverty and addiction issues, and Dler and his team collaborated with a local church to provide rehabilitation and empowerment programs.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N_5nx5Lva0I

Chapter 3: Excellence at the College of Idaho

Following his successful graduation from UWC Adriatic, Dler embarked on a new chapter in the United States, attending the College of Idaho as a Davis UWC Scholar, with the privilege of a full scholarship for his four-year liberal arts education. Dler seized the opportunity to participate in the CofI PEAK program, enhancing his intellectual and professional abilities, and nurturing his aspirations of becoming an educated advocate for humanity and a catalyst for change.

Driven by a keen interest in social, economic, and political phenomena, Dler pursued a major in International Political Economy, complemented by minors in history, religious studies, and natural sciences. This comprehensive education broadened his intellectual horizons, allowing him to comprehend intricate global political and economic issues with nuanced perspectives.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Dler emerged as an active leader, dedicating himself wholeheartedly to the vibrant Yotes community. His peers elected him as a student senator for three consecutive years, a testament to their trust in his leadership capabilities. Furthermore, as an Activities Assistant Coordinator, he played a pivotal role in organizing two orientation weeks and four club fairs, fostering a sense of unity and engagement among the college community.

Dler's contributions were recognized with notable accolades, including the prestigious Thomas E. Shearer Award, which honored his extraordinary service to the ASCI and the College. Moreover, the Department of Student Affairs bestowed upon him a Certificate of Appreciation, acknowledging his exemplary dedication to the campus community.

Not confining his commitment to the College of Idaho campus, Dler extended his impact to the broader local community. As a student intern with the Redline Research Project, he made significant strides in uncovering numerous Restrictive Racial Covenants, advocating for their removal and ultimately contributing to the passage of important legislation. Through his diligent efforts, Dler also played a pivotal role in raising awareness about racial inequality in Idaho

#A report by Idaho Capital Sun that features Dler and his fellow students:

https://idahocapitalsun.com/2022/07/05/acknowledging-boises-past-student-research-helped-create-law-to-allow-removal-of-race-covenants/

# A video by the CofI Department of Communication that explains the Redline Research Project, in which Dler took part:

https://youtu.be/7iIcNQ6y-HQ?t=108

Chapter 4: A Voice of Inspiration - Graduate Speaker 2023

Dler's exemplary and empowering story has been a source of inspiration for his Yote community and fellow students alike. This profound impact led to his selection as the graduate speaker for the year 2023. During his commencement speech, resonating with the entire college community, he exemplified how resilience and perseverance enable a person to achieve what may seem "impossible."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y0NZ33KsLx4

Chapter 5: Empowering Dler's Future

At this crucial juncture, Dler stands on the cusp of his next academic endeavour at the esteemed University of Tennessee. However, being an international student, he encounters financial constraints during the summer break, requiring $1500 to facilitate his relocation to Knoxville, establish his living arrangements, and acquire essential supplies for the upcoming semester. With our collective support, we have the incredible opportunity to embolden Dler's aspirations and invest in a future change-maker. Every contribution, regardless of its amount, will play a significant role in bolstering Dler's confidence as he embarks on this momentous chapter of his life.

Conclusion:

Dler Awsman's remarkable journey from surviving the Yazidi genocide to becoming a beacon of hope and inspiration is a testament to the human spirit's resilience. By supporting this GoFundMe campaign, we can collectively invest in a future change-maker who will continue to advocate for those whose voices have been silenced. Together, we can empower Dler to make a meaningful impact on the world and create a brighter, more compassionate future for us all. Join us in supporting Dler's dreams and aspirations today!