Abdulhadi Jarada – From Displaced Person to Trainer

In the midst of a devastating war that left nothing safe, Abdulhadi Jarada, a young man in his twenties and an engineering student at the Islamic University, was displaced from his home three times. When he returned, he found it damaged, but his determination remained intact. He decided to turn the rubble into a new beginning.
Abdulhadi describes his situation before participating in the project (Strengthening Youth Resilience through Psychological and Community Support,) implemented by the Youth Vision Association with funding from the Heinrich Böll Foundation, saying, (My life was full of psychological stress, behavioral disorders, and unbearable social and family pressure.) He continues with a sigh (I was looking for an opportunity to get me out of this darkness).
Driven by curiosity and hope, Abdulhadi joined the psychological support sessions offered by the Youth Vision Association, not expecting at the time that this step would be a real turning point in his life. Abdulhadi says, (I was surprised that the project was not just words and lectures, but a profound experience that affected my behavior and thinking.) He continues, (During the training, I learned how to release my stress in a healthy way, how to reconcile with myself, and how to be aware of my feelings and behavior.)
During the training, Abdulhadi evolved from a young man suffering from distraction to a young man with the tools for change. Thanks to this project, he was able to address the doubts and psychological pressures that weighed him down and gradually transformed into a person capable of influencing, not just being influenced.
Over time, he was no longer content with just receiving support, but became the one providing support to others.
Abdulhadi explains that he is now a certified trainer on online training platforms, in addition to his work as a trainer in educational centers in Gaza City (I started offering psychological support sessions and awareness training, and it all began with one session and a moment of honesty with myself) he says.
Six months of training passed in the blink of an eye for Abdulhadi, but it changed his life from the ground up. He says, (I feel that today I am in a completely different place. I am no longer that young man drowning in despair, but have become a creator of hope and an active member of my community. This project has given me the tools to be the change I wish for others).
At the end of his speech, Abdulhadi expressed his gratitude, saying, (Thank you to Youth Vision, thank you to the Heinrich Böll Foundation, and thank you from the bottom of my heart to the trainers who gave us confidence and awareness. This project has not only changed me, but has also lit the way for many young people in Gaza.)