There’s less than one month left to apply for IranCubator 2.0, and I’d love it if you would consider applying or helping us spread the word. We’ve seen some great ideas come through recently, including an educational program to teach parents about sexism, a self-care application to help teenagers develop emotional intelligence toward women and prevent sexual harassment, and a platform to support working children. But we know there are still many new ideas out there that can make a difference, especially during a time of crisis.
Iran has been particularly impacted by this virus, and this comes on the heels of what has already been a very painful time in recent history, with the November 2018 protests, the subsequent crackdown, and the crash of Flight 752. Our mission at United for Iran has always been to support the people of Iran in whatever challenges they are facing as a society. And in this time of extreme adversity, our work to meet them where they are at continues.
For instance, Shadi Sharifi was one of our partners in the first round of IranCubator and her project – Toranj – continues to be an invaluable resource for victims of domestic abuse in Iran. Toranj is a toolkit app that includes resources for calling emergency services, providing legal support, educational resources and a database of pro-bono counseling clinics in Iran. As Iranians were under quarantine in recent months, the app saw additional use – and while this is hardly something to celebrate, we wonder how much worse things could be if these tools WERE NOT available. I’m grateful for Shadi and the rest of the Toranj team at NetFreedom Pioneers for the critical work they continue to provide, and I believe there are many more ideas out there that can make a difference – and yours may be one of them.
We are putting out the call for 3 different kinds of applicants for this unique project – click the images to learn more:
I know how challenging the last few months have been, and how the difficulties the world has been facing can make us feel powerless. But in times like these, I’m reminded of a quote from the late Fred Rogers, more commonly known as Mr. Rogers, who told a story about when he was a boy and would see scary things on the news. He said:
“My mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’ To this day, especially in times of disaster, I remember my mother’s words, and I am always comforted by realizing that there are still so many helpers — so many caring people in this world.”
That’s the opportunity we have with IranCubator 2.0 – to be helpers. To make a small, but meaningful difference in the lives of people who are struggling. And I believe you or someone you know could have an idea that will help make life a little easier for someone in Iran.
Please consider applying or spreading the word to others who might be interested.
With hope,
Milad Keshtan
Program Director, United for Iran