Majd & Majd 14-year-old boy and girl. Palestinians believe in positive societal change and seek to serve as an example for children and adolescents in Palestinian society. From a young age, their journey began to discover Palestinian society and visit various governorates. Through their journey, they showed that society is evolving, changing, and having a future. Majd strives through the journey to reach children with various tools from the diary, educational sessions, awareness meetings, mentoring activities, and psychosocial support sessions. Focusing on various subjects, the most essential of which is Gender.
From a young age, children need someone who understands them and clarifies the various concepts of life. Majd, with his age aligning perfectly with that of the children, became their companion. He was a friend to both children and adolescents on their journey to explore life and its diverse concepts.
Majd's journey unfolds as the children transition from childhood to adolescence. It was a journey that believed in the power of positive change starting from a young age, recognizing that children and adolescents are foundational to this societal transformation. Majd succeeded in being a companion to children and adolescents, engaging in conversations with them on various topics that are crucial to social change. These include gender equality, violence in its various forms, positive education, rights and responsibilities, social equality, and family education.
Majd's journey, summarized in its philosophy, aims to focus on gender-based violence and gender roles. This is achieved through educational sessions that address crucial topics, promoting the intellectual development of children while reducing mistaken stereotypes associated with customs, traditions, and social upbringing that perpetuate violence in Palestinian society. Through Majd its themes, endeavors to assist children and adolescents in expressing themselves. It serves as a tool for dialogue with them regarding various forms of violence and discrimination in our society, emphasizing dialogue as a means of resolving differences of opinion, promoting freedom of thought and expression, and respecting diversity.
Majd engages children and adolescents in quality games through counselling and recreational activities, including physical, artistic, and musical activities. The inclusion of theatre enhances self-confidence and expression through art, presenting societal issues seamlessly. Majd's efforts extend beyond school journeys, delving into the entertainment aspect for children by organizing summer and winter camps. By targeting both genders among children and adolescents, Majd works to develop their skills and societal impact.
Success Story: Empowering Youth through the Majd Journey Program
The Majd Journey Program, a collaborative effort between UNFPA and Sharek Youth Forum, has significantly impacted youth in the West Bank. Throughout its implementation, this program reached over 2,500 beneficiaries, ages 11–16, across 20 schools and 20 centers. Through a combination of engaging workshops and educational activities, the program addressed critical topics such as gender-based violence, physical and psychological health, and adolescent well-being.
The program's success can be seen in the increased awareness and understanding of these essential issues among the youth. Participants gained knowledge on how to recognize and address gender-based violence, maintain their physical and psychological health, and foster healthier relationships within their communities. In addition, the program focused on promoting cleanliness and hygiene, empowering young people with practical skills they can use in their daily lives.
One of the key aspects of the program was its emphasis on interactive learning. This ensured that young people were not just passive recipients of information but active participants in discussions, which fostered a sense of ownership and responsibility for their own health and well-being.
In addition to the workshops, the program also implemented the Majd Summer Camp, where beneficiaries engaged in a variety of enriching activities. These included sports that promoted teamwork, resilience, and physical fitness, as well as short film-making projects that explored holistic and psychological health, focusing on the changes adolescents go through. Through these creative and dynamic experiences, young participants not only learned important life skills but also found new ways to express themselves and raise awareness among their peers.
Thanks to the joint efforts of Sharek Youth Forum and UNFPA, the Majd Journey Program has created a lasting impact on its participants. It has equipped the youth with the tools to face the challenges in their communities and inspired them to become change agents in promoting positive social change.
The program's success stands as a testament to the power of collaboration between organizations, schools, and centers in creating opportunities for youth to thrive. With the foundation laid by Majd Journey, these young individuals are now better prepared to navigate the complexities of adolescence and build healthier futures for themselves and their communities.
Youth Caravan in Jenin: Bringing Health Awareness to Communities
The Youth Caravan is a mobile awareness tour designed to promote holistic health—including physical, mental, and social well-being— among adolescents and youth aged 10–19, as well as their caregivers. This traveling outreach campaign brings interactive activities, informative sessions, and community engagement events directly to local villages and communities. By reaching underserved areas, the caravan creates safe, supportive spaces where youth and families can gain knowledge and skills to make healthy, informed decisions. So far, the Youth Caravan has reached eight locations in Jenin and will visit three more this week, covering a total of 11 locations across the governorate.
Highlights from Jenin
Aqqaba
At the Aqqaba Municipality Hall, the caravan welcomed 25 adolescent girls and 32 mothers over several days. Despite initial concerns due to the tense security situation in Jenin, turnout was higher than expected, showing strong community interest. Dr. Sa’eda and Dr. Siwar from An-Najah University led the mothers’ sessions, combining encouragement with vital health knowledge. The workshops concluded with the distribution of support parcels, adding further motivation for participants.
“There was strong cooperation in these sessions, and I truly hope to build a long-term partnership with Sharek to continue offering workshops like these. Communities need this kind of work, and we must reach as many people as possible.” — Ameer Al-Qassem, educator
Misilya and Tubas
In Tubas, the caravan reached 115 beneficiaries, while in Misilya, 60 adolescents and 25 mothers took part in sessions conducted by Alaa Abu Al-Roub, a Y-Peer Volunteer in Jenin. The historic Abu Al-Roub Diwan and the Misilya Village Council warmly hosted the caravan, emphasizing the importance of youth health and providing safe spaces for growth. These efforts not only built awareness but also reinforced cultural heritage while engaging the new generation.
American University in Jenin
At the university dormitories, 30 displaced mothers attended workshops that provided both emotional relief and community connection. The sessions, led by Alaa Abu Al-Roub, helped participants cope with their challenging circumstances and concluded with the distribution of care packages.
Burqin
In Burqin’s Al-Khoukha heritage area, 22 adolescent boys attended two sessions in a traditional home featuring a small amphitheatre. The intimate setting created an engaging atmosphere, even though adolescent girls were unable to attend.
“Even though the girls couldn’t attend, the boys were fully engaged and motivated. The setting itself created a special energy.” — Aseel Shawahneh, Educator
Al-Yamoun
At the Al-Yamoun Community Center, three sessions engaged 30 adolescent girls. Though shy at first, the participants gradually opened up to share their dreams, experiences of adolescence, and self-awareness.
“At first, there was some shyness, but by the end, they were expressing themselves confidently. It was beautiful to witness their growth.” — Aseel Shawahneh, Facilitator
Silat Al-Harithiya
Separate sessions were held for 25 adolescent boys at the municipality hall and 35 adolescent girls in a home setting. Topics included hygiene, early marriage, adolescent changes, emotional boundaries, STIs, and nutrition. Despite the socially conservative context, attendance was strong, and displaced women also joined.
“These sessions are essential and positive. They should happen everywhere, not just in certain locations.” — Aseel Shawahneh, Educator
Lubna, a displaced mother, shared how the sessions transformed her perspective:
“At first, I felt like I was in a strange place and thought people disliked displaced families, but I found them kind and enjoyed meeting new people.” — Lubna, mother
“Families displaced by war need both material and emotional support, especially due to increased domestic violence and hardship. These sessions helped address those needs.” — Sa’eda Qubaha, Educator
Ya’bad
Despite security challenges and frequent incursions, sessions continued at the Ya’bad Charitable Association, highlighting the community’s strong demand for safe spaces.
“These sessions must continue despite challenges. The psychological state is poor, and safe spaces are crucial to protect youth and children from negative environments.” — Ahmed Kilani
East Neighborhood, Women’s Center
In a small room among rubble, 37 mothers attended sessions—well beyond the expected number. Many participants were mothers of martyrs or displaced families. For them, the caravan became a second home for support, family connection, and psychological healing.
“This place helped women regain warmth and family ties lost due to displacement, supporting their emotional and psychological well-being.” — Sa’eda Qubaha
Korean Cultural Center
The caravan’s visit was inaugurated with the presence of the Mayor of Jenin, the Deputy Governor, gender affairs officials, and civil society representatives. Six sessions were held—three for adolescent girls and three for adolescent boys—with additional sessions for mothers planned.
Looking Ahead
With over 400 beneficiaries already engaged, the Youth Caravan has created safe spaces for dialogue, learning, and psychosocial support. The journey continues with upcoming visits to Faquoaa, Rummaneh, and Jaba’a, aiming to extend its reach and deepen community ties. By fostering knowledge, resilience, and emotional strength, the Youth Caravan continues to empower youth and caregivers across Jenin—helping build healthier, more connected communities.
