The Return introduces The Hub, an ambitious and transformative project with the objective of becoming a central resource for individuals seeking to return to their homeland. As the largest initiative undertaken by The Return to date, The Hub is meticulously designed to serve multiple functions, most notably as a pivotal support center for returnees.
The inception of The Hub stems from The Return’s board awareness of the needs within our community and the crucial role that the NGO plays in facilitating the reintegration process. Creating The Hub signifies a monumental advancement for our organization and sets a precedent for other entities. It underscores the significance of establishing a substantive presence in our homeland and encourages members of our diaspora to consider investing in both rural and urban locales, such as Ankawa, where The Hub will be constructed.
The Hub is envisioned as a multifaceted development, encompassing several integral components that reflect our cultural heritage and collective identity. The architectural design of the building will be inspired by the cultural heritage of the region between the two rivers, aligning with the symbolism present in The Return’s logo and reaffirming our historical roots.
Structurally, The Hub will consist of six components, all of which are critical to addressing the needs of different returnee profiles: a coworking space, The Return’s headquarters, a community lounge, temporary accommodation, peer organization offices, and a legal support division.
- Coworking Space: In an ultra-connected world, many returnees have the opportunity to work remotely and choose to settle in Iraq. For these young professionals, a quality coworking space is essential. It will enable them to maintain their income while gradually integrating into the local community. The space will also enable a synergy of ideas with local entrepreneurs.
- Headquarters: The Hub will feature dedicated office spaces equipped with the necessary infrastructure and technology to support the organization’s administrative functions. This includes areas for coordination, planning, and communication, ensuring seamless operations and effective management of programs and initiatives. The headquarters will also serve as the primary location for case management operations.
- Community Lounge: Serving as a dynamic space for workshops, social events, and cultural gatherings, the community lounge will function as a safe and dynamic space for returnees. It will facilitate connections between returnees and locals and host essential activities such as language classes, training sessions, and orientation programs to support the integration process.
- Accommodation: One of the critical components of The Return Hub is the provision of temporary and affordable accommodation for returning individuals and families. Furnished apartments will be available to offer a safe and supportive environment during the initial stages of their return journey. This accommodation not only addresses the immediate housing needs but also fosters a sense of stability and security as they transition back to their homeland.
- Peer Organizations Offices: In addition to serving as The Return operational base, The Hub will offer rental opportunities for peer organizations. By leasing office spaces within The Hub, these organizations can benefit from shared resources, infrastructures, and networking opportunities. This collaborative approach not only supports the sustainability of The Return but also contributes to the development of a vibrant and diverse ecosystem of initiatives working towards common goals.
- Legal Support Division: This critical component will offer essential services to both prospective returnees and those who have already relocated. Partner lawyers will assist with administrative tasks, investment inquiries, and tax management, providing comprehensive support to facilitate a smooth and sustainable return process.
The Hub is designed to meet a pressing need within our homeland and for our people. With the support of stakeholders, it has the potential to realize its vision as a comprehensive support center for individuals navigating their return, investments in Iraq, property acquisitions, and ongoing case management. The Return aims to leverage The Hub to significantly enhance its capacity to assist a broader population, ensuring that our efforts to support returnees are both extensive and effective.
Note: the images below have been developed to illustrate the concept and key components of The Hub, but do not represent the final design and architecture of the project. Operational versions of the project will be communicated on an ongoing basis, including once the final site has been selected and acquired.
