Amna Shukri Ahmad Okasha – Finding Strength Through Sport Amid Displacement

At just 16 years old, Amna Shukri Ahmad Okasha is a powerful example of resilience, determination, and the transformative power of sport. Growing up in Nur Shams Refugee Camp in Tulkarem, Amna found joy and strength through football, a sport she started playing at the age of eight with her brothers. Despite facing ridicule from others who claimed football was "only for boys," Amna refused to let societal norms define her.

Her journey with Palestine Sports for Life (PS4L) began when she was 12 years old. Under the guidance of Coach Yumon Masri, Amna began to regain her confidence and take bold steps toward her future. One of her proudest moments came when she represented Palestine in the 2022 Street Child World Cup in Qatar—an experience she describes as life-changing.

Beyond sports, Amna has embraced opportunities in education and leadership. With support from Qatar Foundation, she and other participants received tools to continue their studies, enroll in English language programs, and participate in leadership courses—all of which are helping shape a brighter future for her and her peers.

However, her journey hasn't been without hardship. Due to ongoing military incursions in Tulkarem, Amna and her family were forcibly displaced from their home. For over 100 days, they have been living in uncertainty, without access to their personal belongings or a stable home. Attending school has become a daily challenge, with long distances and safety concerns making education harder to access.

“I miss the camp, my life, and my memories there,” Amna shares. “I miss my home the most. But I will not give up. I’m still fighting to achieve my dream of becoming a doctor or a nurse.”

Despite these challenges, Amna credits PS4L’s safe spaces and psychosocial support for helping her cope and stay strong. “Training at PS4L has greatly improved my mental state and gives me the strength to continue,” she says. “I feel more responsible every day.”

Amna’s story is a testament to how sports can be a lifeline in times of crisis—providing not only a physical outlet, but also emotional healing, educational support, and empowerment. Through resilience and support, she continues to push forward—dreaming big, leading by example, and proving that hope can endure even in the hardest times.