Let Hope Ring Louder than Guns

Palestinian, from Palestine; seeking Undergraduate degree in Medicine and is enrolled at Al-Azhar University.  

Palestinian, from Gaza; a rising senior medical student at what was once Al-Azhar University.

I was born into a close-knit family. I have four siblings. One of my brothers also studies medicine in Egypt, a shared dream we both work hard to achieve.

My journey took a drastic turn 380 days ago when my family and I were displaced from our home (which was destroyed completely) due to heavy bombings . We now live in a cramped displacement center in Deir Al-Balah. Our lives are now controlled by lack of life's basic needs - food, sanitation, water and an ever-present fear. Living conditions are incredibly challenging, with limited space, lack of basic necessities, and psychological stress from the destruction surrounding us.

Despite the hardships, I continue my medical studies whenever possible, often sitting on cold pavements to download Surgery lectures due to limited internet! I want to learn!

My commitment to my dream of becoming a specialist in gastrointestinal laparoscopic surgery remains unbroken. I volunteer at Al-Aqsa Hospital, providing first aid, treating injuries and translating for foreign medical delegations. This life is difficult, yet I am hopeful, envisioning a time when I can complete my studies and serve my community.

I want the world to hear my voice from Gaza, this once a big prison, now turned into a wasteland. I hope that with your help my voice and dreams would ring louder than guns.

Why Would Donors Fund You?

Donors would fund me to invest in the future of healthcare in Gaza. Despite facing extreme adversity, I remain dedicated to completing my medical education and serving my community. Supporting me means helping a passionate, resilient student who strives to provide essential medical care and make a meaningful impact in a war-torn region.

How Do You Plan to Payback?

After graduating, I plan to give back to my community by providing quality healthcare and raising awareness about pressing health issues such as smoking and environmental pollution. I aim to train residents in first aid and develop educational programs in medical schools to empower future healthcare providers. Additionally, I will participate in research initiatives to improve medical practices in Gaza. By dedicating my skills to serve the less fortunate, I hope to create a healthier, more resilient community and inspire others to make a difference.

Volunteer Work/Social Capital

I have a deep commitment to volunteer work, despite the ongoing war in Gaza.

• Currently, I volunteer at Al-Aqsa Hospital, assisting with medical care and translating for foreign delegations.
• I’ve provided first aid training to students and helped distribute food to displaced families.
• My efforts also include organizing awareness campaigns on health issues and engaging in initiatives with organizations like IFMSA and PMSA. By empowering others and providing care during this crisis, I aim to strengthen our community and inspire hope amidst adversity.

What Have You Done to Improve Yourself? Awards and Achievements

I am committed to continuous learning and personal growth.

• I have completed: trauma management, basic life support, and systematic reviews in research courses.
• I participated in training programs on scientific writing through Stanford University and gained certifications in first aid training.
• I completed training on using the App Inventor platform to build mobile applications during high school as part of the technology course curriculum and scored 100/100 in the course.
• My achievements include first place in the Crown of Knowledge competition and the Leadership Personality Test.
• As a member of organizations like IFMSA and AMRA, I actively engage in workshops and volunteer initiatives, enhancing my skills and contributing to my community.