Amira: Writer
Location: Gaza City
Hobbies and interests: I’m interested in reading, coloring, and writing. I’m keen on the idea of changing the whole educational system design in the Middle East. At the same time, I’m an advocate for Cancer, health and educational rights. I believe in being the voice for the voiceless.
My chosen Ayah: I really love Al-Kursi verse which says: “Allah. There is no god but He – the Living, the Self-subsisting, Eternal. No slumber can seize Him nor sleep. His are all things in the heavens and on earth. Who is there can intercede in His presence except as He permitteth? He knoweth what (appeareth to His creatures as) before or after or behind them. Nor shall they compass aught of His knowledge except as He willeth. His Throne doth extend over the heavens and the earth, and He feeleth no fatigue in guarding and preserving them for He is the Highest, the Supreme (in glory).
This Ayah makes me feel safe, especially when I first got diagnosed with an immune system dysfunction. It made feel fearless and I felt like it was my shield from everything. I really love it; it makes me feel at ease.
One of my passions is helping people; anywhere and anyone. I started as a story-teller for cancer patient kids, and now I plan cancer awareness campaigns. I used to be super active during university. I mostly helped freshmen. I used to participate in many events, I believe in “Do the best of this life to be of use”. Every few months, I travel for my medical check-up, and when people know I’m from Gaza they would be surprised since the media portrays a certain image of us but I portray the opposite of that image. I gave them a very positive image of us; that we hold on life no matter what we go through.
I’m a proud fibro-warrior and a mental-illness advocate. When I was first diagnosed, my faith was shaken. I didn’t know how to deal with it. I’ve always been good with helping people, yet I didn’t know how to help myself. I felt like I was alone. Until I heard the Kursi- verse in my dream. When I woke up, I didn’t feel alone anymore, I could feel that Allah granted me this Ayah as a reminder that He’s always protecting me.
“I’m for truth, no matter who tells it. I’m for justice, no matter who it is for or against. “Malcolm X. Believe in yourself, fight for what you love and always help others.