A Fond Farewell to Yvonne Nawaz: Celebrating 17 Incredible Years with Grampian Women’s Aid
After an incredible 17 years of dedication, compassion, and service, we are saying goodbye (for now!) to our beloved colleague Yvonne Nawaz, who is retiring from Grampian Women’s Aid.
Yvonne’s journey began many years ago in a very personal way, when she first arrived in Aberdeen after fleeing domestic abuse with her three young children. She found refuge in a communal space run by Aberdeen Women’s Aid. Once she was back on her feet and had rebuilt her life, she made the inspiring decision to give something back—starting as a volunteer with Aberdeen Women’s Aid.
Eventually, she moved over to Grampian Women’s Aid, where she found what she describes as “an amazing experience.” Over her 17 years with GWA, Yvonne has witnessed tremendous growth and transformation. She’s seen the organisation evolve from a women-only support service to one that now includes a Children and Young People’s team and dedicated group services—providing a more holistic, person-centred approach to support.
Yvonne has been a constant, supportive presence for so many women on their journeys—from the very first contact to seeing them thrive in group settings and begin new chapters in their lives. “It feels good doing something worthwhile,” she says. “Helping with the small things and being there for the whole journey—it’s incredibly rewarding.”
She also witnessed significant practical changes over the years in GWA, including the move from communal refuge living to private flats, allowing women and families greater independence and dignity during difficult times. She praised the entire GWA team for their compassion and strength, noting the strong sense of support and teamwork that defines the organisation.
Throughout the years, Yvonne has faced her own challenges with health, but praises GWA for their compassion and flexibility. “I’ve always felt looked after,” she reflects. And now, as she steps into retirement, she’s looking forward to some well-earned rest—and maybe even ticking off a few long-postponed tasks at home.
While Yvonne acknowledges that the work can be emotionally challenging at times, she credits the “amazing team” at GWA for their unwavering camaraderie and support. “There’s always someone to lean on,” she says, expressing deep appreciation for her colleagues and the strong sense of unity within the organisation.
She also speaks highly of GWA’s CEO, Aileen, whose leadership she believes has been instrumental in raising the service to the high standard that women deserve. “No one wants to see themselves as a victim,” Yvonne often said. “Thanks to the team, women can now see themselves as survivors.”
Although Friday will be a bittersweet day, Yvonne leaves feeling that the organisation is in great hands—and hints that this may not be goodbye forever. “The door is open for volunteering,” she says.
The huge impact Yvonne has made on the lives of so many women and families is immeasurable. We will miss her warmth, resilience, and unwavering commitment.
All at Grampian Women’s Aid thank Yvonne for her incredible contribution and wish her a happy, healthy, and fulfilling retirement. The door will always be open.