Rania's Story

I am originally from Rafah in Palestine. Before the war, I lived there with my former husband. When we were forcibly displaced from Rafah along with thousands of other families, I moved to my family’s home in another part of Rafah. But then shortly after, we were displaced again to a different area of the city, and then yet again to Al-Mawasi in Khan Younis. 

After my separation, my son and I remained with my family in their tent in Al-Mawasi. It is difficult to find a separate place for us, so we will continue living with them until I can find a tent of our own. 

Recently, I decided to return to my studies, even though there were only two months left before the exams.

I completed my secondary school exams and achieved a score of 87.4%. I was incredibly happy. To me, this was proof that a person can still succeed while living through the hardest days of their life. In some ways, I feel that I discovered myself during the war and the famine period and I began searching for work during the time. Then I found an organisation that needed someone to become their social media public face, so I applied. I had no previous experience and had not yet completed my education, but they gave me an opportunity! 

I trained myself and worked hard to develop my skills. When I began working with them, I realised how much I loved this field. Now, I want to continue studying and look for more opportunities to work in media. 

A few months ago, awareness sessions were organised in our camp, where we learned about Women for Women International’s Stronger Women, Stronger Nations programme, delivered through Wefaq Association. I enjoyed the sessions so much that I decided to enrol and take this opportunity.

The programme has had an important impact on my life since then. I especially enjoy the economic empowerment sessions because they are clear, accessible and useful. The programme has also helped me socially and strengthened my confidence and reminded me that even when the beginning is difficult, there is always an opportunity to build a better life.

I have also made many friends at the centre. The trainers are kind and caring, and every time I attend a session, I feel as though I have stepped outside the war for a little while. I forget where I am and what is happening around me. 

The war and the separation have affected me deeply, but I am trying to remain strong for my son and the baby I am carrying. My family tells me that I am carrying many responsibilities, but I tell them that I want to raise my children, even if I have to do it alone. I want to do everything I can for them. 

My mother helps me, and I attend nearby clinics that provide free pregnancy care. I also try to create happy moments for my son despite everything around us. I want him to learn, play and enjoy his childhood.

I use cardboard boxes from aid deliveries to make shapes and animals for my son.

I create colourful learning materials and teach him the names of colours in Arabic and English. We sing songs and play together. These things may be simple, but they are filled with love, and his laughter gives me the strength to continue. 

My son loves the sea and always asks me to take him there. Although it is not close to where we live, I try to take him once a week. The beach is not always safe because it is sometimes bombed, but people in Gaza have very few places where they can spend a peaceful and happy moment.

When lying in bed at night, I dream of having a home where we can feel safe. I dream that one day my children will know the beautiful Gaza I know, not only the Gaza it has become now under bombardment. I want to build a future that I can be proud of. I want my children to grow up knowing that their mother did not surrender, no matter how difficult life became.