LocationsAs the lead Site Engineer for the Domeez electricity substation in Mosul, Nibras is challenging gender stereotypes about women working in construction in Iraq.
Nibras, 33
When you were a child, what was your dream job?
I always wanted to be an engineer. Since childhood I loved building. And my wish came true! I would also like to work for the UN one day.
How does your family feel about your job?
They are proud of me when they see me creative and working, achieving my dreams
What do you love about your job?
My job requires to work with accuracy and precision and I love this. Also, this job helps me rebuild my country after it experienced conflict and suffering under ISIL. And I get to work with the best technicians in various fields. I don’t work late so I have time to be with my family in the evening.
What is the most difficult thing in your job?
Nothing is difficult, thank God!
Do you have any hobbies outside of work?
Yes, I love traveling and visiting historical sites like. I would love to visit areas such as The Palace of Suleiman Al Qanuni in Turkey and the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt. I’d also like to visit the Great Wall of China, The Louvre Museum in France and Venice.
What advice would you give Iraqi woman who wish to work in construction or project management?
I would tell them to go for it. I encourage and support all women intending to work in this field because it’s a wonderful job.
Why equality between men and women is important to women?
Because there is no difference between them, women are half the society and should have the same opportunities. Some people think the work that I do is a man’s job, but I disagree.
What’s the best advice you have ever received?
Never give up.
About the project
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Photos: UNDP Iraq/Claire Thomas
