• Dr. Nesreen Barwari

    Author, Advisor on Good Governance and Planning, Academic, Painter, and Cats Enthusiast

    About
  • Upcoming Book Signing Events - February 2026


    About

A Message from Dr. Nesreen Barwari

I developed and transformed during tumultuous periods in Iraq and Kurdistan.  I encountered societal concerns, contested conventions, and championed reform.  Here, I aspire to initiate dialogues, enhance consciousness, and cultivate comprehension.
Writing has fostered my self-confidence, self-awareness, and heightened sense of empowerment as I endeavor to convey my truth to the world. Through the articulation of my experiences in overcoming hardship, cultivating resilience, and personal growth, I seek to inspire and support individuals facing challenges.  Through the sharing of my narrative, I aim to cultivate a sense of community and comprehension, assuring you that you are not confronting these issues in solitude.

Ph.D. in Spatial Planning, Faculty of Spatial Planning of the Technical University of Dortmund.

A message from Dr. Nesreen Barwari

I developed and transformed during tumultuous periods in Iraq and Kurdistan.  I encountered societal concerns, contested conventions, and championed reform.  Here, I aspire to initiate dialogues, enhance consciousness, and cultivate comprehension.
Writing has fostered my self-confidence, self-awareness, and heightened sense of empowerment as I endeavor to convey my truth to the world. Through the articulation of my experiences in overcoming hardship, cultivating resilience, and personal growth, I seek to inspire and support individuals facing challenges.  Through the sharing of my narrative, I aim to cultivate a sense of community and comprehension, assuring you that you are not confronting these issues in solitude.

Ph.D. in Spatial Planning, Faculty of Spatial Planning of the Technical University of Dortmund.

Dr.Nasreen Barwari

I have been working across the private, public, non-profit, and academic sectors to promote conflict management and coexistence through, good governance, education and participatory planning in Iraq and Iraqi Kurdistan with over 30 years of experience in humanitarian relief and development, my focus has been on public policy, leadership, and management.

Ph.D. in Spatial Planning, Faculty of Spatial Planning of the Technical University of Dortmund.

My Memoir

In the Land of a Thousand Springs

“A Woman’s Journey Through Revolts
That Shaped a People and a World”

Born in Baghdad in 1967, Nesreen’s memoir unfolds the journey of a Kurdish woman forging her identity in the shadow of war, loss, and resilience. From childhood, her mother’s vivid tales and her family’s legacy of endurance taught her that survival and selfhood are woven from the threads of memory.

What I do

Areas of Expertise

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Professional Planning

Professional Planning and Design urban development plans based on municipal council objectives, promote social change, conduct urban region analyses, and educate the public.

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Governance in Planning

Discusses the influence of governance theory on planning practices, emphasizing hybrid governance models, cross-sector coordination, and the need for research into adaptation in spatial planning.

Coaching and Leadership Development

Highlights the importance of leadership training, effective communication, and the role of ethical leadership in fostering organizational integrity.

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Negotiation Techniques

Emphasizes preparation, listening skills, and strategic approaches for successful negotiations, including long-term learning support through various reinforcement methods.

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Strategic Management Education

Aims to enhance analytical decision-making skills and emphasizes understanding strategic management frameworks applicable in diverse organizational contexts.

Participatory Planning Skills

Training for community engagement, focusing on developing trust and facilitating inclusive processes across different levels of expertise.

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Writing Coaching Services

Offers tailored support for aspiring authors, focusing on goal definition, story development, feedback, and accountability to enhance writing skills and produce publishable work.

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Training for Research Careers

Recommends research training opportunities for individuals and institutions, aimed at enhancing career development within specific fields of research.

Events

Events

In Pictures

My Books

Openions

Academic Profile

  • BSc, Architectural Engineering and Urban Planning
    Baghdad University, Iraq (August 1991)
  • MPA (Master’s in Public Administration), Public Policy and Management
    Harvard University Kennedy School of Government, USA (July 1999)
  • PhD, Spatial Planning
    Technical University of Dortmund, Germany (February 2015)

Get in touch

Whether it’s a question, a suggestion, or to plan an event with Dr. Nesreen, feel free to reach out anytime. I read every message personally.