'Be strong, rely on yourself'
Single mother in Mosul runs fava bean cart to support her daughter
MOSUL — In her forties and a single mother to a six-year-old daughter, Umm Reem did not wait for help but started her own business. Every morning, she prepares fava beans, cleans her cart, and heads to the streets of Durkazliya in Mosul by 6 p.m., reportedly making her the first woman to sell fava beans from a cart in the city.
Every morning, she prepares the beans and cleans her cart before heading to the streets by 6 p.m. “I wake up in the morning, put the beans on the fire, clean them well, and once everything is ready, I go out to the street at six in the evening,” she told 964media.
She closes her stand by 10 p.m. and has received steady encouragement from customers who appreciate her initiative. “Many people have supported me in this work, and I see it as better than asking others for help,” she said.
Living in a rented house and facing medical expenses, Umm Reem works hard to provide for her daughter. “I rely on myself, and I don’t need anyone,” she said. “I maintain traditions while working at night.”
She also urged other women to be independent. “My message to women is to be strong, rely on yourselves, and God will always be with you.”
Customer Qusay Al-Handasi expressed admiration for her efforts. “Work is honorable for both men and women. Umm Reem has set up this clean, organized stand, and I salute her efforts. I encourage such work because it is better than seeking help from others,” he told 964media. He added, “Mosul is safe, and women can work anytime, day or night. She is a great example, her food is clean and well-prepared, and we support such businesses.”
