North East Bylines has been talking with Waseem and his family for well over a year now. His is the story of so many Palestinian families, struggling to exist with even the basics of living in a war-torn country. Last week, the family’s eldest son took part in a graduation ceremony to celebrate his achievements and those of his classmates. It was a heartwarming moment that showed human hope and resilience in the midst of the horrors of war. I asked Waseem about his experience.
Just to get us started, can you tell us about your son, Nabil?
Before the war, he had a beautiful school and studied like everyone else. After the war came, he was deprived of all means of education after the schools were destroyed…
So can you tell us more about how it is in Gaza now – since the war – for children, parents, and families?
I’ll tell you how things are, but the war isn’t over.
Parents face an immense burden as they try to protect their children and meet their basic needs amidst difficult living conditions and a lack of services. Despite all this, families still cling to hope and strive to rebuild their lives.
Although the fighting has subsided in some areas, the suffering of families in Gaza has not ended. Thousands of families still live in tents or destroyed homes, struggling daily to secure food, clean water, and medicine. Many children remain…
You mention clinging to hope. Can you tell us about Nabil’s graduation? It looked like a real celebration
The graduation ceremony was beautiful and deeply emotional. For a few hours, the children were able to forget the hardships around them and simply enjoy being kids. They wore their graduation gowns with pride, walked across the stage, and smiled as their names were called. There was cheerful music, warm applause from parents and teachers, and the children performed simple choreographed dances and group movements they had practised together. It truly felt like a real celebration of their hard work and perseverance. Seeing their joy and confidence was a powerful reminder that hope can still exist, even after everything they have endured.
How did your family feel about the event
Nabil’s mother said:
“Seeing my son graduate brought tears to my eyes. It was a moment of joy we desperately needed after so much hardship.”
And Nabil himself said:
“I was so happy to graduate. I want to keep studying and make my family proud. This day reminded me that I should never give up on my dream”.
What can people in the UK and other countries do to help the Palestinian people?
Everyone can make a difference, no matter how small their contribution may seem. People in the UK and around the world can support trusted humanitarian organizations providing food, medical care, and shelter to civilians. They can also donate to families in need if they are able, share the stories of those affected so their experiences are not forgotten, and encourage their elected representatives to support the protection of civilians, humanitarian access, and efforts toward a just and lasting peace where everyone can live in safety and dignity.
Thank you. Is there anything else you want to add?
Thank you for taking the time to listen to our story. Being heard means a great deal to families like ours. We hope the world will continue to remember the people of Gaza, especially the children, who deserve safety, education, and the chance to dream about their future. We remain grateful to everyone who has shown kindness, offered support, or simply shared our story. Your compassion gives us hope to keep going.
You can help Waseem’s family here
Friends of Bylines Network
There has never been a greater need for grassroots journalism that investigates the stories that really matter, holds power to account and champions the voices of everyday citizens. We are proudly powered by volunteers but what we do isn’t free.
STAND WITH US for independent, citizen-led journalism that makes democracy stronger, and you will even get some exclusive benefits.
