Ayten Pacariz: Hero from Ottakring stands up for women!

Ayten Pacariz: Hero from Ottakring stands up for women!

In the colorful diversity of Vienna, personal stories sometimes shine particularly brightly. One of these stories is that of Ayten Pacariz, the MeinBezirk heroine from Ottakring. Pacariz, who has been the operational manager of the “The Neighbors” association since 2014, is passionate about integrating women from different cultural backgrounds into Austrian society. At a successful ceremony she was recently named a hero by MeinBezirk, W24 and presenter Mel Merio, which gives the work she has done the necessary recognition.

The association “The Neighbors” has made it its mission to support isolated women. Pacariz is often invited to the women's homes to help them orientate themselves in their new environment. “Many people are retreating into their own four walls,” she explains, adding: “Language barriers and new customs in particular pose major challenges.” It is all the more important that women receive advice in their own language, which makes the offer from “The Neighbors” particularly valuable. They offer advice in Arabic, Dari/Farsi, Chechen, Somali and Turkish.

Together against isolation

A central concern of Pacariz is to reduce women's fears. They often fear that they will lose their culture and their roots through integration. The “neighbors” therefore convey that you don’t have to give up anything that is dear to you. Through regular visits and individual plans that are drawn up over a period of several months, families can be supported and supported in a targeted manner. The work of “The Neighbors” is not just emergency aid, but an effective empowerment program that strengthens women's self-confidence and independence.

The challenges women face are diverse. Pacariz reports: “There is often resistance, not only from the women themselves, but also from male family members who are afraid of having an independent partner or daughter.” In some cases, these patriarchal structures are deeply rooted. The association also offers support in difficult life situations, for example in the event of divorce, if this is desired.

A role model for many

Last year's BAMF study shows that many migrant women are limited in their integration due to a lack of language skills and care obligations. This is also a point where the “neighbors” start. Increasing the labor force participation of migrant women is also an important goal. Targeted programs such as “Strong at Work” are intended to help them gain a foothold in the job market. Pacariz sees herself as a trailblazer who uses her own experiences in social professions to help other women.

The next episode of the “Vienna Heroines” series will be broadcast on Sunday, June 29th, from 7 p.m. on W24. Those interested can find further information about the club on the website www.nachbarinnen.at. The work of Ayten Pacariz and her team is a ray of hope in times when social integration is more important than ever. Especially now, when pluralism and diversity are at the top of the agenda in society, the commitment of Pacariz and the “neighbors” is a valuable asset.