Finalist

Innovative & Entrepreneurial University of the Year Award

University of Alcala

Finalist of the Innovative & Entrepreneurial University of the Year Award

UNIVERSITY O ALCALA - Spain

"FEIMEM: Celebrating Linguistic Diversity, Supporting Migrant Women "


Engage on social media

@feimen2024
(Official FEIMEM Twitter Account)
@fitispos
(Official FITISPos Twitter Account)
@Micone_UAH
(Official Master’s Degree in Conference Interpreting for Business Twitter Account)
https://www.instagram.com/micone.uah/
(Official Master’s Degree in Conference Interpreting for Business Instagram Account)
https://feimem.web.uah.es/
(Official FEIMEM website)

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Summary

FEIMEM (https://feimem.web.uah.es/) is an innovative and ground-breaking initiative that takes a unique approach to empowering migrant women. What sets FEIMEM apart is its recognition of the untapped potential of qualified migrant women who are already integrated into Spanish society. These women, fluent in Spanish and with valuable skills in translation, interpretation, or mediation, become powerful agents of change and transformation. FEIMEM aims to harness their skills and experiences to promote their visibility, empowerment, and access to the job market. It addresses the crucial task of creating an inclusive and equitable society, where these women can thrive and become a driving force for positive change. The strength of this proposal lies in the impressive track record of the FITISPos group, which has been a pioneering force in the field of Translation and Interpretation in Public Services (PSIT) since 2000’s. Their expertise in intercultural communication is unparalleled, having extensively researched the multicultural and multilingual aspects of institutional communication with migrant populations. By drawing on the expertise of FITISPos, FEIMEM is carefully tailored to address the specific challenges faced by migrant women in intercultural communication. This deep understanding allows for an empathetic and effective approach, facilitating their integration and empowerment. FEIMEM is a timely response to the real needs of migrant women, combining their skills with the expertise of specialists, thus creating a synergy that promotes inclusion, celebrates diversity, and strives for equality.

Key People


CARMEN VALERO-GARCES
Full Professor, Coordinator Research and Innovation Group FITISPos and FEIMEM
Modern Philology & Translation. University of Alcalá, Madrid, Spain ,  University of Alcalá, Madrid, Spain



Irene Fuentes Pérez
Collaborator
Modern Philology & Translation. University of Alcalá, Madrid, Spain ,  University of Alcalá, Madrid, Spain



Silvia Daminaova
Collaborator
Modern Philology & Translation. University of Alcalá, Madrid, Spain ,  University of Alcalá, Madrid, Spain



Andrés Felipe Herrera Ramírez
Collaborator
Modern Philology & Translation. University of Alcalá, Madrid, Spain ,  University of Alcalá, Madrid, Spain



Nicole Ndongla
Collaborator
KARIBU



Houria Yousfi
Collaborator
Interpreter& Translator in NGos



Oksana Stoptes
Collaborator
Ukranian Association


Acknowledgements

This project has been made possible through the generous support and collaboration of our funding partners. We extend our deepest gratitude to all who have contributed to its success:
— FITISPos Research Group (Training and Research in Public Service interpreting and Translation);
— University of Alcalá (UAH-ODS)
— Ministry of Equality, Institute of Women, Government of Spain;
— Guada Acoge Association;
— Asociación Cultural «Acudeva» (Cultural Association);
— CEA(R) (Spanish Commission for Refugee Aid);
— Karibu Association;
— Abrazando Ilusiones Association;
— Vlodymyr Vinnychenko Central Ukrainian State University;
— Translatel Ucrania;
— AMAE;
— ARIA-E;
— Accem.

Images

FEIMEM TEAM IN ACTION- UKRANIAN&AFGHAN

FEIMEM COLLABORATORS& ATTENDEES

FEIMEM SPEAKERS & COLLABORATORS

FEIMEM TEAM IN ACTION2

FEIMEM CLOSE TEAM

FEIMEM MAIN SPEAKERS

IMPACT STORY

Impacting lifes

["Breaking Barriers: The Voices of Migrant Women":
In the heart of Spain, a group of determined women from diverse backgrounds unite to share their stories and shed light on the unique challenges they face. Houria, Leila, and Houraa, strong Arab women, begin by describing the linguistic mountain they must climb. Limited Spanish creates isolation and hinders access to basic services. Yet, they find solace in fellow Arab women who, having overcome these barriers, lend a helping hand. Roya and Zeinab, Afghan women, delve into the cultural complexities, where misunderstandings and tensions arise, making full integration a distant dream. Afghan women, with their aspirations and higher education, struggle to align their expectations with Spain's vastly different cultural norms.
Carlota, an African woman, bravely recounts her journey as a facilitator of social inclusion. She highlights the significant barriers of language and social inclusion for African women, but also the rays of hope in the form of strategic resources fostering integration. Meanwhile, across the globe, a crisis unfolds. Oksana and Vita, Ukrainian women, share the impact of the Russian invasion. Spain warmly welcomes thousands of Ukrainian refugees, offering comfort through Reception Centers and the support of Ukrainian associations and parishes.
Despite the challenges, these women persist. They dream of a society where lesser-spoken languages are not barriers but bridges to opportunity. They strive to break stereotypes and forge an inclusive path, leaving their mark on a more empathetic and diverse Spain.

LEARNINGS

Lessons learned

Breaking barriers and embracing new beginnings:
As you embark on this journey, remember that language is a powerful tool for integration. Strive to learn the local tongue and embrace cultural differences with an open mind. Seek out opportunities to practice, whether through formal classes or conversations with native speakers. Connect with like-minded individuals and seek out groups or associations that can offer guidance and friendship.
Education and skill development are key to your empowerment. Pursue vocational training, attend workshops, and explore online courses to enhance your capabilities and improve your job prospects. Be proactive and persistent in seeking opportunities. Offer your unique skills and talents. Consistently engage with your community and let your presence be known.
Celebrate and share your cultural heritage. Use food, music, art, and traditions to connect with others and embrace the beauty of diversity. Remember to tap into local resources, such as community centers and non-profit organizations, to access valuable services and support. Prioritize your mental health and practice self-care.
Understand that the path ahead may have its twists and turns. Be patient and compassionate with yourself, knowing that challenges are a natural part of the journey. Treat yourself with kindness, respect, and allow yourself to grow and adapt at your own pace.
Lastly, as you establish yourself, consider giving back to the community that welcomed you. Offer your time, skills, or resources to support others who may be navigating similar paths. Remember, the impact of your journey can reach far beyond your own life, leaving a positive mark on the world.

FUTURE PLANS

What's coming?

FEIMEM is proud to announce its upcoming book project, a comprehensive volume that will capture the essence of the four diverse activities and workshops organized between January and May of 2024. This book will be a testament to the power of language, culture, and the resilience of migrant women. It will include recordings of the events, along with their interpretations and translations into English, Ukrainian, Swahili, Dari, and Arabic. The written word will bring to life the vibrant discussions, personal stories, and insights shared during those transformative gatherings.
The book will not only preserve the knowledge exchanged but also serve as a powerful tool for further empowerment and inclusion. It will be a resource for migrant women to access the valuable information and guidance shared during the workshops. By offering the content in multiple languages, FEIMEM ensures that language is not a barrier but a bridge to opportunity.
Additionally, the book will feature manuscripts written by the remarkable speakers who led these activities. These written contributions will provide deeper insights into their experiences, expertise, and visions. Readers will have the opportunity to delve into the minds and hearts of these inspiring individuals, gaining a more intimate understanding of their journeys and perspectives.
This project embodies FEIMEM's commitment to long-lasting impact. By making the book accessible through various channels, including digital formats, FEIMEM ensures that its reach is extensive and inclusive. The book will be a living document, with potential for future editions to include additional languages and the latest insights on migration and integration.


KEY STATISTICS

108,11%

Attendees at FEIMEM’s events based on platform registrations.

+15

Collaborating organizations in FEIMEM’s project

+800

Visits of FEIMEM's official web site

124

Participants in the workshops and activities of FEIMEM’s project

+75

Posts on social media

+38%

Of migrant women who participated in the different activities and workshops were made aware of their rights

54

Online participants in the different seminars and workshops organized

+10

different nationalities

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