In their own words: a voice from Syria

3/1/2021

I struggled with the assignment to write about the work of providing for refugees in winter in Syria. What could I say that hadn't already be said, about the dismal wet and cold (plus new COVID-19 uncertainty) and the heroic efforts of those tirelessly working to improve the situation? I reached out directly to the Mercy Corps team in Syria. Knowing their time is precious, I asked them to just tell me: what does it feel like, taste like, smell like, sound like — to be there, right now? One Syrian team member, whose identity cannot be shared due to security risks, described their experience to me. Their words captured the paradox of hope and despair embedded in their work — despite English not being their first language, I wanted to change these words as little as possible. Combined with recent photographs, I think it is a kind of poem about the nature of being human.

Read the story.

All photos credit to Mercy Corps

Half Sky Writing was born from Half Sky Journeys

My name is Ila Asplund. My vision is to increase the impact of organizations advancing gender equity and social justice. I do this through creating in-person and digital engagement experiences, storytelling, and thoughtful communications strategies for my clients. In previous years, I also provided international journeys to give travelers the opportunity to meet and engage with global leaders who are improving life for women.

Since 2020, I have joined the digital marketing team at Mercy Corps — an international aid organization working in 40+ countries to help people survive crises and thrive in the longterm. From time to time, I write web articles and other digital pieces, in addition to my main duties managing the email outreach program. My work keeps me plenty busy, but sometimes I find a moment to draw or write or create and share that on Instagram or here on this website.
You can reach me at ila@halfsky.org.