In early November 2025, OlamAid organised a two-day emotional resilience training in Chișinău, Moldova under the project “MHPSS & Protection Mothers" – aid for displaced mothers from vulnerable groups and minorities. Led by OlamAid's professional Gianina Mamciuc and carried out in partnership with the MilleniuM Training and Development Institute, the workshop brought together service providers from rural areas of Moldova who support people in vulnerable situations.
This activity forms part of OlamAid’s broader capacity-building efforts designed to strengthen the skills and wellbeing of professionals working with refugees, particularly women in Moldova. Through cooperation with ZWST and funding from Aktion Deutschland Hilft, OlamAid implements recovery and mental-health capacity-building trainings that aim to create a sustainable, positive impact on the refugee community. By equipping service providers with new knowledge, emotional tools, and supportive practices, the project ultimately enhances the quality of care available to those seeking safety and stability.
Titled “How Does My Heart Feel?”, the workshop offered participants a rare opportunity to slow down and reconnect with themselves. Over two immersive days (1–2 November 2025), participants engaged in body-based exercises, symbolic card reflections, conscious breathing, and art therapy. Together, they explored the current state of their hearts - what burdens them, what nourishes them, what brings light, and what calls for change.
The atmosphere was calm, attentive, and deeply human. Many participants expressed relief at having space to pause, while others described moments of insight during the art-based activities. The theoretical segment expanded on themes such as the heart as an emotional compass, empathic resonance, emotional overload, and the essential role of self-regulation and self-compassion. Creative expression, embodied awareness, and intentional stopping points were reframed not only as therapeutic tools but as essential practices of emotional hygiene for frontline workers.
One participant shared:
“Gianina helped me realise something important – that I need to work on some problems I have. The atmosphere she creates makes it easy to open up and reflect."
Such reflections highlighted how meaningful it was for service providers to feel supported, seen, and equipped with practical strategies they can use both personally and professionally.
This training marks an important step in OlamAid’s mission to strengthen the emotional resilience of those supporting vulnerable communities. By nurturing the wellbeing of service providers, we contribute directly to more compassionate, sustainable care for refugees across Moldova. Upcoming activities will continue to deepen these skills, expand access to recovery-oriented tools, and strengthen the network of trained professionals who are creating long-term impact within their communities.
