Aysun Amraliyeva

In Aysun Amraliyeva’s opinion, women have historically taken on complex and challenging roles, and demining is no exception. She believes that women, with their attention to detail and ability to manage responsibility, are well-suited for the meticulous nature of mine clearance. Aysun explains that this field requires both physical endurance and mental resilience, qualities she believes she possesses. She emphasizes that her decision to pursue demining was motivated by a desire to find a balance between physical activity and intellectual challenge, which she views as the perfect combination for her first professional role.

Aysun shares that her journey into this field began with her studies in International Relations, Regional Studies, and Journalism at Baku Slavic University. Despite her academic background, she was always drawn to activities that required physical engagement, such as volleyball and table tennis, which she played competitively during her high school and university years. This active lifestyle made the physically demanding work of demining a natural fit for her. She recalls her time during training, which began in June 2023, as both grueling and rewarding, particularly due to the extreme heat. Despite these challenges, she and her colleagues persevered, motivated by a shared sense of purpose.

Reflecting on the dangers of the job, Aysun explains that fear is a natural response when facing unknown threats, but through extensive training, she and her team learned to handle the risks associated with demining. Their training included learning the precise rules for detecting and handling mines, which helped them overcome their initial fears.

Aysun emphasizes that once she understood the process and safety protocols, her anxiety subsided, and she became more confident in her abilities to navigate dangerous situations.

Aysun also shares the personal challenges she faced in pursuing a career in such a high-risk field. As an only child, her family initially opposed her decision to become a deminer. However, her determination to follow her passion ultimately convinced them, and they now express pride in her accomplishments. Aysun describes how the sense of responsibility that comes with the job has shaped her character, allowing her to grow and find fulfillment in her work. She recounts a significant moment during a trip to Sugovushan, where she climbed a mountain and, looking down at the landscape below, fully grasped the weight of her work’s responsibility. This experience reinforced her commitment to her role and her pride in contributing to Azerbaijan’s demining efforts.

In discussing the differences between men and women in the field, Aysun acknowledges that while women may not always match the speed of their male counterparts, their sensitivity and intuition often give them an edge in performing the meticulous and careful work required in mine detection. She believes that these qualities make women equally, if not more, successful in certain aspects of demining.

Ultimately, Aysun views her work as a personal mission, one that not only allows her to contribute to the safety and future of her country but also empowers her as a young woman in a challenging and dangerous profession. She takes pride in her achievements and looks forward to continuing her work with the knowledge that she is making a meaningful difference in the lives of those returning to the liberated territories.