Success Stories

“Al Amal Program Brings Hope and Mental Health Support to Girls in Gaza” – Free to Run

Launched in April 2025 by Free to Run in partnership with PS4L, the Al Amal program supports over 300 adolescent girls and young women in Gaza. It combines yoga, movement, and mental health sessions to build resilience, reduce stress, and provide a safe space amid ongoing conflict. Targeting communities in Deir al-Balah, Khan Younis, and Gaza City, the program addresses critical gaps in mental health services for girls who often face trauma, stigma, and mobility restrictions. Early feedback shows improvements in well-being, confidence, and coping skills, highlighting the program’s vital role in helping girls navigate difficult realities.

Breaking Barriers Through Football: My Journey with Palestine Sports for Life(Aya Habayeb)

From playing football in Tulkarem’s streets to leading Palestine at the Street Child World Cup, PS4L empowered me with skills, confidence, and global opportunities—transforming my passion into leadership and hope.

Success Story: Nour & Rawan — “My Lifestyle, My Health” Program

Ninth‑graders Nour and Rawan led a fun, health-focused session for 5th‑grade girls—mixing games like jump rope and relay races with health questions—boosting knowledge, confidence, leadership, and inter-age engagement.

Amna Shukri Ahmad Okasha – Finding Strength Through Sport Amid Displacement

Amna Shukri Ahmad Okasha, a 16-year-old from Nur Shams Refugee Camp in Tulkarem, has shown remarkable resilience through her passion for football. Despite societal challenges and over 100 days of displacement due to military incursions, Amna continues to pursue her dreams of becoming a doctor or nurse. With the support of Palestine Sports for Life (PS4L), she has regained her confidence, participated in the 2022 Street Child World Cup in Qatar, and received educational and leadership support. Amna's story highlights the powerful role of sports in healing, empowerment, and hope during times of crisis.

Success Story of Aya Habyeb with Young Leader Program

Aya Habyeb's English skills have improved significantly, overcoming speaking fears and confidently engaging in conversations. Through the "Young Leader" program, she expanded her network, boosted confidence, and participated in the Kids' World Cup.

Gaza – A Beacon of Resilience in the Face of Adversity

Suhaib, a PS4L coach, helped establish a thriving temporary learning space in Gaza, providing education and hope for children.

Empowering Girls Through Safe Spaces: Malak Firas' Journey of Growth

Malak Firas, a ninth-grader, transformed through the **"Khutwa" Safe Spaces** program by PS4L, improving active listening, resilience, and entrepreneurial skills. She gained confidence in self-promotion and now strives to expand her small business, embracing challenges with determination and growth.

Success Story of Suhaib Salah Salman Abu Nadi: A Beacon of Hope through Sports for Life

Suhaib Salah Salman Abu Nadi, a 31-year-old father from Gaza, embodies resilience and hope. Displaced by war and forced to live in a tent camp in Deir al-Balah, Suhaib faced immense challenges but found purpose by working with Palestine: Sports for Life (PS4L). As a facilitator, he dedicated himself to supporting children affected by conflict, leading recreational and educational activities that provided them with a safe space for healing and growth. Beloved as a mentor and affectionately called “teacher” by the children, Suhaib brought joy and teamwork to their lives, instilling values of perseverance and hope. His efforts also united the broader community, inspiring parents to rally around the initiatives and creating a supportive environment for the next generation. Suhaib’s unwavering commitment to uplifting his community demonstrates the power of compassion and determination. His story is a testament to the transformative impact of sports and community engagement in fostering resilience and hope, even in the face of adversity.

From Gaza to Denmark: Malak Al-Madhoun’s Transformative Year with the European Solidarity Corps

Malak Al-Madhoun, a young woman from Gaza currently residing in Egypt, is embarking on a year-long volunteer journey in Denmark through the European Solidarity Corps (ESC). Supported by Palestine Sports for Life, Blåkilde Efterskole, and AFS Interkultur, Malak will engage in local projects that emphasize social inclusion, cultural exchange, and community development. Through this experience, she aims to build skills in teamwork and project management, gain new cultural insights, and bring these learnings back to inspire positive change in her community.

Success Story: Amal Adwan's Journey to Empowerment

Amal Adwan, a resilient woman from Qalandia Refugee Camp, joined the Safe Spaces program by Palestine: Sports for Life to turn her business idea into reality. Through the program, she gained entrepreneurial skills, marketing strategies, and emotional support, enabling her to create a successful business and improve her family's financial security. Her journey reflects the power of education, psychological support, and determination, inspiring others in her community to follow their dreams.

Transforming PS4L Vision of Lifestyles Through Nutrition Education: The Success Story of Ola Hammad

Ola Hammad, a dedicated final-year nutritionist at Birzeit University, has significantly impacted girls at UNWRA Al-Amari Girls School in Ramallah through her innovative approach to nutrition education. Offered an internship by Palestine for Life, Ola implemented the “My Health, My Lifestyle” program, focusing on healthy lifestyles through sports, play, and nutrition education. Her engaging methods, including interactive activities and personalized guidance, successfully improved students' dietary habits and health awareness. Ola's efforts not only transformed her students' lives but also inspired broader community change, showcasing the power of education and community engagement.

Ashwaq's success story in Al-Leban Al-Gharbi Girls School in the contribution with 'Sports For Life '

Ashwaq Haroun Ali Samhan, a dedicated physical education teacher in Palestine, received recognition and a financial prize for her innovative project promoting environmental awareness at Al-Laban Al-Gharbi Girls School. Her project, "My Environment, My Responsibility," engaged students in competitions across various categories, integrating environmental concepts. The initiative resulted in a vibrant school garden, emphasizing teamwork and environmental consciousness. Ashwaq's project, in collaboration with "Sports for Life," served as a successful model, showcasing the impactful blend of sports and environmental education for a greener future.

“I have a positive side”

Zakaria Hijawi Kamal odwan School Gaza-Rafah district

“An initiative to become a leader”

Lamis Mohammad Bashir Khawla Bint Al-Azwar Gaza-central district

“I no longer feel fear”

Sarah Tamimi Ghayn Al-Hilwa School Gaza - Central District

“I felt a sense of self-worth”

Yazan Al-Beik Ashdod Basic School for Boys Gaza - North District

"I was born again and now I can overcome difficulties"

Ahmad Ramzi Qaffa Ashdod Basic School for Boys Gaza - North District

“We have a new homeland”

Ahmad&Mohammad Baker Assdod Elementary School for Boys Gaza - North District

"The stereotype of sports class has changed for me."

Abed- Alrahman Joudeh Kamal Odwan Gaza - Rafah District

"I stopped being as shy as before, and my self-confidence has increased”.

Aya Abu Assi Muscat Al-Tuffah Gaza - North District

“I started accepting people and thinking before I responded to them”

Isra’ Mansour Al-Safwa Joint Elementary School Gaza Strip - Khan Yunis District

Aya Habayeb - Captain of our Womens Football Team and a young leader of Tomorrow

Empowering Girls Through Safe Spaces: Malak Firas' Journey of Growth

Malak Firas, a ninth-grader at Aida Girls' School, transformed through PS4L's "Khutwa" Safe Spaces program. She developed active listening, self-confidence, and entrepreneurial skills for her home-based business. Interactive sessions on CV building and overcoming challenges fostered her resilience, empowering her to strategize and envision a brighter, self-sustaining future.

"I’m not nervous now”

Aisha Zaqout That Al-Sanori Gaza-North District

Empowering Through Education: Yathreb and Malak's Inspiring Path

Yathreb and Malak's achievements become even more impressive when you consider their individual backgrounds and academic pursuits

Maysoun Nakhleh - from Athlete to Coach to full Workforce

Maysoun's path with PS4L

True Meaning of Dedication

“I’m just an ordinary boy from Ramallah,” said German-Palestinian professional basketball player Elias Marei as he recalls his journey in pursuing basketball as a career.

Arab Football Federation – Suad Alqam

Ms. Suad Alqam has been chosen as a member in the Women Committee of the Arab Football Federation on its 71st federation board meeting in Riyadh

Woroud Sawalha, A Role Model

Woroud was the Palestinian National Athlete in the London Olympics, in 2012.

First Palestinian Coach in International Football Camp - Majdi Abdullah

Majdi Abdullah had been selected after PS4L nomination to take part in an international football camp in Germany

From Gaza to Munich - Mohammad Abu Aita

Mohammad has participated in International Experts training (S4D) IET, from 17 to 23 August in Munich.

PS4l Trainer Fadi Abu Kaf

Fadi Abu Kaff is climbing up the football training certification pathway. He received his level B certificate in football coaching from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and the Palestinian Football Federation.

PS4L Trainer Renad Mousa

Renad Mousa, PS4L trainer and ex-national football goal keeper, was chosen as a goal keeper assistant coach for Palestine U15 (under 15) Girls national team at the 2nd West Asian Football Tournament in Jordan.

Raghad Saleem becomes MYJL Ambassador

Raghad Salim's Journey In Becoming Michael Johnson Young Leaders (MJYL) Ambassador

PS4L Trainer Areen Daher

PS4L trainer Areen Daher took part in the 3rd annual United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) workshop for the Line up Live up (LULU) training.