From Palestine to Morocco: Rand and Doaa Discover the Power of Sport to Unite
From Palestine to Morocco: Rand and Doaa Discover the Power of Sport to Unite
For Rand and Doaa, representing Palestine: Sports for Life (PS4L) in Morocco was more than an international exchange. It was an experience that challenged their perspectives, created meaningful connections, and showed them how sport can bring people together despite differences in language, culture, and background.
From 19 to 25 October 2026, the two young Palestinian women participated in the Régate4Med programme, organised by Tibu Africa, a Moroccan non-governmental organisation that uses sport to promote youth empowerment and social inclusion. The programme brought together young people from 10 Mediterranean countries for sporting, cultural, educational, and environmental activities in Tétouan, M’diq, and Tangier.
Discovering What Sport Can Make Possible
Throughout the week, Rand and Doaa took part in team-building workshops, cultural visits, environmental activities, beach games, and introductory sailing sessions. These experiences encouraged participants to work together, exchange ideas, and learn from one another.
For Rand, one of the most memorable aspects of the programme was discovering how young people from different cultures and environments could come together through sport.
“One of the biggest questions I asked myself was how we could unite under the banner of sport despite our differences in language, culture, and background. I realised that sport is truly more than a game or a competition. It can be a tool for education, cooperation, communication, and even environmental protection.”
This understanding gave Rand a new perspective on the role sport can play in bringing communities together and addressing wider social issues.
Lessons to Bring Back to Palestine
For Doaa, the warmth of the Moroccan people and the beauty of the country's culture and nature were among the strongest memories of the journey. The sea, the sailing experience, and the kindness she encountered made the week especially memorable.
She reflected:
“What stayed with me most about Morocco was the kindness and generosity of the people, the beautiful Moroccan culture, the sea and nature, and the unforgettable experience of being on the boats. I learned the importance of cooperation, respecting differences, and protecting the environment.”
But for Doaa, the experience did not end with returning to Palestine. As someone involved in sports training, she intends to apply what she learned in her work with girls, encouraging them to collaborate, support one another, and develop a stronger sense of teamwork.
“I will take these lessons into my sports sessions here in Palestine and encourage the girls I train to strengthen their team spirit and work together. Sport is not only about skills; it is also about culture, communication, and building character.”
Her plans reflect how international exchange can have an impact beyond the participants themselves, as new ideas and experiences are carried back into local communities.
PS4L: Creating Opportunities That Last Beyond the Journey
At Palestine: Sports for Life, sport is a means of empowering young people, developing life skills, and creating opportunities for participation, leadership, and personal growth.
Through its programmes, PS4L supports young Palestinians in building confidence, strengthening their abilities, and engaging with their communities. Opportunities for international exchange also allow participants to discover new approaches, connect with people from different backgrounds, and bring valuable lessons back to their work and daily lives.
Rand and Doaa's participation in Régate4Med reflects the importance of investing in young people and giving them opportunities to represent Palestine, learn beyond their immediate environments, and share their experiences with others.
A Thank You for an Unforgettable Experience
Palestine: Sports for Life (PS4L) extends its sincere gratitude to Tibu Africa and everyone involved in organising and hosting the Régate4Med programme for creating such a meaningful and enriching experience. Their warm hospitality, thoughtful organisation, and commitment to bringing young people together through sport, cultural exchange, and environmental action made this journey truly memorable for Rand and Doaa.
We are grateful for the opportunity provided to our young representatives to learn, connect, and share their culture while proudly representing Palestine.
