Hamza Shehada is a 29-year-old public health professional from Gaza with nearly a decade of experience in healthcare administration. Through his work in the Ministry of Health and his research on hospital communication systems, he developed a strong interest in digital health and healthcare management. Witnessing the challenges faced by hospitals during times of crisis strengthened his commitment to improving health systems through innovation, technology, and evidence-based solutions. Hamza has contributed to healthcare management initiatives, participated in strategic planning during the COVID-19 pandemic, and conducted research on improving communication and information flow in hospitals. Building on this experience, he is pursuing graduate studies in public health to deepen his expertise in health administration and digital health. His long-term goal is to contribute to the development of more resilient, efficient, and patient-centered healthcare systems that improve access to quality care for his community.
Nourhan Mahdy is a 19-year-old student from Gaza with an outstanding academic record, graduating from secondary school with a 97.1% average. She began her studies in medicine, where she successfully completed her first semester, while remaining committed to her education despite the challenges of studying in Gaza. Alongside her medical background, Nourhan has cultivated a strong interest in graphic design, illustration, and artificial intelligence, combining creativity with analytical thinking to explore new ways of communication and innovation. She has further developed her skills through specialized training, first aid certification, and volunteer work in children's educational activities and healthcare settings. Passionate about lifelong learning and community service, Nourhan aspires to build a career that integrates creativity, technology, and meaningful social impact.
https://chuffed.org/project/169204-support-nourhans-dream-to-become-a-doctor
Reema Abo Kmail is a 20-year-old pharmacy student from Gaza with a strong commitment to academic excellence and healthcare. After graduating from secondary school with an outstanding 91.7% average, she earned a scholarship for her pharmacy studies, which she maintains through consistently high academic performance. Dedicated to her education despite the challenges of studying in Gaza, Reema is committed to developing the knowledge and clinical skills needed to become a compassionate and highly qualified pharmacist. Alongside her academic pursuits, she is preparing to continue her studies internationally, with the goal of gaining advanced training and contributing to improving healthcare in her community. Through her perseverance, discipline, and passion for learning, Reema hopes to build a career that combines scientific expertise with meaningful service to others.
https://chuffed.org/project/172492-help-reema-achieve-her-dream-of-studying-pharmacy
Mohammed Dalloul is a 19-year-old Computer Engineering student from Gaza. After graduating from secondary school with an excellent 90% average, he chose to pursue his passion for technology and engineering. Despite the significant challenges of continuing higher education in Gaza, Mohammed remains committed to his studies and determined to build a career in computer engineering. Following the loss of his older brothers, he has taken on greater family responsibilities while continuing to work toward his academic goals with resilience and perseverance. Through his dedication to learning, problem-solving, and innovation, Mohammed hopes to develop technologies that improve people's lives and contribute to the future development of his community.
Almoatasembellah Shaqfa is a Palestinian researcher and translator from Gaza with over five years of professional experience in translation, education, and language services. Holding a Master's degree in Linguistics and Translation, he has specialized in literary, academic, and business translation, as well as transcription, subtitling, proofreading, editing, and content writing. Alongside his freelance translation work, he has taught English with UNRWA, developing innovative teaching methods and supporting students' language learning in challenging circumstances. Passionate about linguistics, research, and intercultural communication, Almoatasembellah aspires to pursue a PhD to advance his academic expertise and contribute to language research, education, and cross-cultural understanding. Through his dedication to scholarship and lifelong learning, he hopes to make a meaningful contribution to both academia and his community.
Mohammed Elzayyan is a 20-year-old student from Gaza studying medicine. Having consistently achieved strong academic results throughout his education, he has demonstrated discipline, perseverance, and a strong commitment to his studies. Motivated by a desire to improve the lives of others, Mohammed aspires to become a doctor who can provide quality healthcare and contribute to the well-being of his community. Despite the challenges of pursuing higher education in Gaza, he remains focused on his academic goals and continues to approach his studies with determination and resilience. Through his dedication to learning and his commitment to serving others, Mohammed hopes to build a meaningful career in medicine and make a lasting contribution to society.
https://chuffed.org/project/179672-help-mohammed-from-gaza-a-young-medical-student
Abdallah Abo Zanona is a 20-year-old student from Gaza pursuing a degree in Cybersecurity Engineering. After graduating from secondary school with an excellent 91% average in the Scientific Track, he has remained committed to his studies despite the significant challenges of continuing higher education in Gaza. Passionate about technology and digital security, Abdallah aspires to become a cybersecurity engineer who can help create safer digital environments and contribute to the development of his community. His determination, discipline, and strong work ethic have enabled him to stay focused on his academic goals under difficult circumstances. Through his dedication to learning and innovation, Abdallah hopes to build a career that combines technical expertise with meaningful impact.
Ahmad Al-Qatrawi is a 20-year-old Artificial Intelligence and Programming student from Gaza with a strong passion for technology and innovation. Committed to developing solutions that address real-world challenges, he is building his expertise through academic studies, technical training, and hands-on projects. Despite the challenges of pursuing higher education in Gaza, Ahmad remains dedicated to expanding his programming and problem-solving skills while exploring the potential of artificial intelligence to create positive social impact. Through his determination, curiosity, and commitment to continuous learning, he aspires to become a skilled AI engineer and contribute to the development of innovative technologies that benefit both his community and the wider world.
Reema Wadi is a 22-year-old Business Administration graduate from Gaza with a strong commitment to leadership, community development, and youth empowerment. Throughout her academic journey, she has combined her studies with active involvement in community initiatives, humanitarian volunteering, and youth engagement programs. Through her work with local organizations, she has contributed to project development, community-based activities, and educational initiatives while strengthening her skills in leadership, communication, project management, and teamwork. Passionate about creating positive social impact, Reema aspires to pursue a Master's degree in Business Administration to deepen her expertise, expand her international perspective, and contribute to sustainable development and economic opportunities for her community.
https://chuffed.org/project/186730-support-reemas-next-chapter-from-gaza-to-graduate-studies
Rahaf Hassan is a 21-year-old medical student from Gaza with a strong commitment to academic excellence and community service. Currently in her third year of medical studies, she is ranked among the top students in her faculty and has demonstrated outstanding performance in core medical subjects. Passionate about emergency medicine, cardiology, and surgery, Rahaf complements her academic studies with clinical training, first aid experience, and volunteer work supporting injured individuals and community health initiatives. Beyond medicine, she enjoys sports, music, and performing arts, and values teamwork, leadership, and continuous learning. Through her dedication, compassion, and perseverance, Rahaf aspires to become a skilled physician committed to improving healthcare and serving her community with professionalism and empathy.
Aseel Dalloul is a 19-year-old student from Gaza who recently graduated from high school. The photographs show her with her family in front of their destroyed home, next to which they have set up a tent after their house was bombed. Due to the destruction of Gaza’s education system by the war, she has been unable to attend university. She therefore dreams of receiving a scholarship to continue her studies abroad, particularly in Egypt, where part of her family lives. She hopes to study medicine there, while her mother, who has cancer, is currently undergoing treatment in Egypt. Her father is accompanying her mother during this difficult period. Since childhood, Aseel has been particularly passionate about science, especially biology. She was fascinated by how the human body works, its complexity, and the mechanisms that enable us to live and move. This fascination nurtured her dream of becoming a doctor and dedicating her life to helping others and saving lives. For her, medicine represents a noble vocation: understanding the origins of suffering and, through dedication and compassion, helping to alleviate it.
Basel Rami Jabr Al-Tawil is a 20-year-old Palestinian student from Gaza, currently studying medicine at Al-Azhar University. Since childhood, he has dreamed of becoming a surgeon, inspired by the renowned Egyptian doctor Dr. Magdi Yacoub. His ambition is to save lives and help people who are suffering.However, the war has made his studies extremely difficult, particularly due to power outages and a lack of resources. The challenging psychological conditions he is living through also make it difficult for him to learn and concentrate. In addition, his family is no longer able to cover his university tuition fees. Despite these obstacles, Basel remains a bright and highly motivated student. This year, he achieved an average grade of 93%, placing him among the top students in his class. He is also actively involved in supporting his community through volunteer work for children and displaced families. In particular, he provides psychological support to children and helps distribute clean drinking water to families in need.
Yousef Ahmed Al-Assar is a 20-year-old Palestinian student with a strong passion for medicine, science, and learning. In high school, he achieved an outstanding average of 98.7% and ranked first in the scientific track. He also participated in youth initiatives, volunteer activities, and various scientific training programs. His interest in medicine stems from his belief that it brings together science, humanity, and responsibility. He has deepened his knowledge through his academic studies and training in first aid, emergency care, and medical skills. In the future, he hopes to specialize in cardiac surgery, a field that appeals to him because of its precision and demanding nature. His ambition is to put his knowledge at the service of patients, save lives, and improve their quality of life. Outside of his studies, he enjoys reading, chess, football, and music. He is also involved in community initiatives and projects aimed at supporting and empowering young people. For Yousef, education represents far more than a degree: it is an opportunity to contribute to positive change. He aspires to become a skilled, compassionate, and responsible doctor who can make a positive impact on his community.
Majd Aboriash is a 20-year-old student from Gaza, specializing in Engineering and Information Technology as well as Web/Graphic Design, who is deeply passionate about technology, innovation, and visual design. Determined to design digital solutions and visual identities to address real-world challenges, he continuously develops his skills through his university curriculum, professional technical certifications (in Graphic Design, AI Foundations, and Business Marketing), and practical projects. Despite the severe difficulties of pursuing higher education in Gaza—including displacement, the complete destruction of his family home, and studying under extreme conditions to graduate high school and gain university admission—Majd is fully invested in deepening his knowledge in programming, user interface design, and digital problem-solving. Driven by determination, curiosity, and a commitment to lifelong learning, he aspires to become a competent engineer and designer, contributing to innovative technology and creative works that serve his community and build a better future for the world.
Mohsen Emad Awad Abu Owda is a student from Gaza and holds a degree in nursing from Al-Azhar University. During the war, he was seriously injured, resulting in the partial amputation of several fingers on his right hand. Despite this ordeal, he continued his studies with determination and successfully obtained his degree. His experience has strengthened his interest in public health and global health. He wishes to deepen his knowledge of epidemiology, biostatistics, and humanitarian health. His goal is to pursue a Master’s degree in Global Health in order to further develop his skills. He hopes to contribute to improving healthcare in communities affected by conflicts and crises. In the future, he aspires to work with international health organizations. He wishes to put his knowledge and experience at the service of rebuilding Gaza’s healthcare system. His ambition is to help strengthen healthcare services that are accessible, effective, and resilient. Through his journey, he hopes to make a lasting contribution to the health and well-being of the people of Gaza and beyond.
Mostafa Rasmy Alqahwaji is a medical student from Gaza, recognized for his excellent academic performance and strong determination. He achieved an outstanding average of 98% in high school, despite the many challenges affecting education in Gaza. He then began studying medicine and completed his first year with an average of 93%. His academic journey reflects his dedication, discipline, and commitment to his studies. Alongside his university education, he has obtained several certifications in various areas of medical and clinical skills. These training programs have enabled him to develop both his theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Despite the extremely difficult conditions in which he is pursuing his studies, he continues his academic journey with determination. The lack of resources and suitable conditions for education represents a daily obstacle. However, Mostafa remains motivated and continues to hope that he will achieve his professional goals. He wishes to become a skilled and competent doctor, capable of responding to the needs of his community. His journey reflects his resilience, academic excellence, and deep commitment to medicine. In the future, he aspires to put his skills at the service of his community and contribute positively to its future.
Nagham Al Baba is a 20-year-old student from Gaza with a strong passion for technology, media, and education. She achieved an excellent average of 97.6% in high school and is currently pursuing a degree in Software Engineering. She is also developing her skills in programming, photography, video editing, and UX/UI design. Alongside her studies, she is actively involved in initiatives dedicated to young people and her community. In particular, she works to amplify the voices of students and children in Gaza and advocate for their right to education. Through her involvement with SIRAJ and other educational projects, she participates in awareness-raising and community support activities. These experiences have enabled her to strengthen her skills in leadership, communication, and project coordination. Despite the challenges of pursuing her studies under extremely difficult conditions, she remains determined to learn and create. She hopes to use technology and media as tools for development and positive social impact. In the future, she aspires to help create more opportunities for young people and contribute to the development of her community.
Fares Hasan is a 24-year-old Palestinian student from Gaza. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) from Al-Quds Open University. He achieved very good academic results throughout his university studies. During his studies, he participated in a project to develop an automated robotic goalkeeper. The project used an Arduino board and sensors to detect the movement of a ball and attempt to stop it. This experience allowed him to develop his skills in technology, teamwork, and problem-solving. Outside his field of study, Fares is passionate about football and cooking. He is distinguished by his ability to solve problems and learn quickly. In the future, he hopes to establish his own company and develop innovative technology projects. He also plans to pursue further studies in order to broaden his knowledge and strengthen his skills.
Sojood Abusaada is an engineer from Gaza who graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering from the Islamic University of Gaza. She graduated with an “Excellent” distinction and ranked first in her class. During her studies, she specialized in construction project management and infrastructure. Her thesis focused on contractor selection in construction projects. Her practical training enabled her to develop skills in construction supervision and project coordination. She also became interested in the environmental impact of engineering and the development of sustainable infrastructure. She wishes to pursue a Master’s degree to further deepen her knowledge and expertise, particularly in project management, infrastructure, and sustainable development. In the future, she aspires to put her knowledge at the service of the reconstruction and development of infrastructure in Gaza. She hopes to continue her career as an engineer and researcher and contribute to a more sustainable future for her community.
Heba Moayad Al-Assar is a 20-year-old Palestinian student from Gaza, currently studying medicine. She achieved an excellent average of 95.3% in high school (Tawjihi). She continued her studies with a cumulative average of 94.89% during her first year of medical school. These results reflect her determination to pursue her education despite difficult circumstances. Passionate about the fundamental biological sciences, she is particularly interested in understanding how the human body functions. She also enjoys analyzing and exploring new approaches to medical learning. She has strengthened her skills through training in first aid and nursing care. She actively participates in student committees and various educational activities. She is also involved in health awareness initiatives within her community. Driven by a constant desire to learn, she hopes to further develop her medical knowledge and skills. She aspires to build a career that combines medical sciences, humanitarian engagement, and social impact. Her goal is to put her skills at the service of patients and her community.
Shahed Imad Awad Abu Owda is a 20-year-old Palestinian student from Gaza, currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy at Al-Azhar University. She achieved an average of 95% in high school in the scientific track. Despite the difficult circumstances, she remains determined to continue her studies and achieve her goals. Alongside her academic training, she has completed courses in artificial intelligence and first aid. She has also participated in volunteer activities supporting injured people. Passionate about healthcare, she hopes to put her knowledge at the service of others. Her goal is to complete her pharmacy studies and pursue further education. She wishes to develop her skills in order to contribute to improving healthcare and health services in her community. She also aspires to support her family and contribute to the reconstruction of her country. Her journey reflects her determination, commitment, and strong desire to help others.
Shahed Abo Rekab is a 20-year-old student from Gaza who achieved an excellent average of 93% in high school. She began studying Medical Laboratory Sciences at the Faculty of Medical Sciences. Her goal is to build a strong academic and professional future in the healthcare field. Despite the difficulties she faces, Shahed remains determined to continue her studies. She wishes to pursue further education and develop her skills in the medical field. She is currently working to improve her English proficiency in order to broaden her academic and professional opportunities. She has also completed several training programs, including a nursing course and a diploma in healthcare. Passionate about learning and personal development, she demonstrates a high level of motivation. Shahed hopes to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to the healthcare sector. Through her academic journey, she also aspires to make a positive contribution to her community.
Baker Abdullah Al-Walid is a 20-year-old medical student at Al-Azhar University in Gaza. In high school, he achieved an excellent average of 98.4%, ranking eighth in the scientific track. He actively participates in youth initiatives, activities for children, and various scientific training programs. He chose to study medicine because he believes that the field combines science, humanity, and responsibility. Through his studies and training, he has developed knowledge and skills in primary care, emergency care, and various medical procedures. He hopes to specialize in general surgery, a field that particularly appeals to him because of its precision and the expertise it requires. His ambition is to treat patients, improve their quality of life, and support those who need to access medical treatment abroad. Alongside his studies, he enjoys reading and football and likes to support his fellow students. He also wishes to become involved in community initiatives and contribute to projects that promote youth empowerment. For Baker, education is an opportunity to contribute to change and help build a healthcare system that is competent, compassionate, and responsible.
Mostafa Tareq Alnazli is a 21-year-old dental student at Al-Azhar University in Gaza. Passionate about dentistry, he hopes to develop his knowledge and clinical skills in order to become a competent practitioner. He achieved an excellent average of 91.1% in the Tawjihi and currently maintains a university average of 87.7%. These results reflect his perseverance, dedication, and commitment to his studies. Alongside his academic work, he seeks to strengthen his practical skills and clinical experience. In particular, he completed training in suturing, which enabled him to acquire important practical skills and gain greater confidence in clinical practice. Despite displacement and the difficult conditions in Gaza, he remains determined to continue his studies and pursue his dream of becoming a dentist. Mostafa wishes to continue deepening his knowledge and developing his clinical skills. He believes that success in dentistry relies on knowledge, experience, compassion, and continuous learning. His goal is to become a skilled and compassionate dentist, capable of providing high-quality care and making a positive contribution to his community.
Majd Ramzi Abu Said is a 20-year-old student from Gaza, specializing in Communications Engineering and Computer Science. Passionate about technology, telecommunications, and software development, he hopes to create innovative solutions to everyday challenges. He constantly seeks to expand his knowledge and skills through his studies, projects, and independent learning. Despite the severe difficulties and disruptions to education in Gaza, Majd remains determined to pursue his academic and professional journey. He and his family were displaced after their home was destroyed. After finding refuge at his aunt’s home, that residence was also destroyed, forcing them to relocate several times. They are currently living in a tent, but these hardships have strengthened his determination to continue his studies. Majd wishes to further develop his skills in computer networking, software engineering, and digital systems. Curious and persevering, he is driven by a constant desire to learn and improve. His ambition is to become an engineer capable of turning complex ideas into useful innovations and contributing to the rebuilding of a better future through technology.
Malak Abu Alghusein is a 19-year-old Palestinian student from Gaza. Since childhood, she has dreamed of studying medicine, a vocation that has been further strengthened by the events she has experienced since the beginning of the war. In October 2023, after her street was bombed, she helped injured people, confirming her desire to become a doctor. Despite extremely difficult circumstances, she continued preparing to pursue medical studies. Deeply committed to her community, Malak has provided tutoring to high school students in her neighborhood. She also volunteered at Al-Awda Hospital, where she gained valuable exposure to the medical field. With the support of the Gaza International Student Network (GISN), she was admitted to the Faculty of Medicine at Ain Shams University in Egypt. She was also able to evacuate Gaza in order to continue her studies in better conditions. We wish her every success in her studies and throughout the next stage of her journey. Unfortunately, GISN is unable to continue supporting its students after they have been evacuated abroad, except for those who settle in Switzerland, where the organization is based.
Mohammed Elbuhissi is a 19-year-old student from Gaza currently studying computer engineering. After graduating from Al-Azhar College with an excellent 83.3% average, he completed his first university semester with a strong 92% average. He chose computer engineering because of his strong interest in technology and its importance in shaping the future. He is particularly motivated to develop his technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills and hopes to use them to create practical solutions that can benefit his community. Alongside his studies, Mohammed has gained experience working at a bakery and café, in electronic marketing, and as a volunteer at Taalam School, developing his communication, adaptability, and sense of responsibility. Despite the difficult circumstances in Gaza, Mohammed remains determined to continue his education in a suitable environment and build a successful career in computer engineering. He hopes to become a skilled and innovative engineer and contribute to a better future for himself and his community.
Mahmoud Abuward is a medical doctor from Gaza specializing in emergency medicine, with extensive experience providing care in hospitals, emergency departments, and field medical centers. Through his frontline work, he has developed a strong commitment to emergency response, humanitarian healthcare, and strengthening health systems in crisis settings. With the support of the Gaza International Student Network (GISN), Mahmoud secured admission to the University of Geneva for September 2026, a grant from a foundation, accommodation in Geneva, and assistance with visa procedures and evacuation arrangements. He is now preparing to begin a Master of Science in Global Health. Building on his clinical experience, he aims to deepen his expertise in public health, epidemiology, health policy, and humanitarian response. By combining advanced academic training with practical experience, Mahmoud hopes to strengthen healthcare systems, improve emergency preparedness, and support the recovery of conflict-affected communities through sustainable, evidence-based solutions.
Nour Daabes is a Biotechnology graduate from Gaza with a strong passion for microbiology, scientific research, and sustainable development. Her undergraduate research focused on the use of beneficial bacteria as biofertilizers to promote sustainable agriculture and improve plant growth, reflecting her interest in applying science to real-world challenges. Having independently secured admission to the Master of Science in Microbiology at the University of Geneva for September 2026, Nour is preparing to expand her expertise in microbiology, laboratory research, and advanced scientific methods. Through the support of the Gaza International Student Network (GISN), she has secured a scholarship from a private donor, accommodation in Geneva, and support with the practical arrangements needed to begin her studies. Through her academic journey, she aims to build a career in microbiology research, contributing to discoveries that improve public health, advance environmental sustainability, and support communities through innovation, education, and scientific collaboration.
Eissa Al-Azbat is an education professional and STEAM specialist from Gaza with a background in Mechatronics Engineering and extensive experience in education, project management, and humanitarian programming. As an Education Consultant with Taawon (Welfare Association), he supports educational initiatives for vulnerable and orphaned children, combining education, technology, STEAM, and social innovation to improve learning opportunities in crisis settings. Building on his professional experience and commitment to sustainable development, Eissa has been admitted to the University of Geneva to pursue a Master's degree in Innovation, Human Development and Sustainability, beginning in September 2026. Through the support of the Gaza International Student Network (GISN), he secured a grant from a foundation, accommodation in Geneva, and assistance with admission, visa procedures, and evacuation arrangements. Together with his wife, Amal, a PhD researcher in Information Systems, Eissa remains deeply committed to education, innovation, and creating lasting positive impact for his community and future generations.
Mohammed Wasef holds a degree in Mechatronics Engineering from Al-Azhar University in Gaza, where he graduated in 2026 with an average grade of 84.47%. Passionate about technology, energy, and innovation, he hopes to develop solutions tailored to communities affected by crises. His final-year project focused on a hybrid system combining piezoelectric tiles and solar panels to generate and store energy. During his studies, he volunteered in the Engineering Department of Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Younis. There, he gained practical experience in electrical networks, electronic circuits, and the maintenance of medical equipment. This experience strengthened his ability to identify technical problems and develop effective solutions. He has been admitted to the Master’s degree in Mathematics, Computer Science, and Digital Sciences at the University of Geneva for September 2026. With the support of GISN, he has received a scholarship, accommodation in Geneva, and assistance with administrative procedures. He hopes to further develop his skills in mathematical modeling, digital technologies, and intelligent systems. In the long term, he aspires to pursue a PhD and develop sustainable solutions for communities affected by conflicts and disasters.
Ihab Abu Shabaan holds a degree in Biotechnology and is originally from Gaza. He has solid practical experience in molecular diagnostics and genetic analysis, particularly in the diagnosis of hereditary diseases. For two years, he tirelessly sought a scholarship to pursue his studies in Switzerland. After securing university admission, his plans were finally able to become a reality thanks to the support of GISN. He was awarded a scholarship and accommodation, enabling him to begin his studies in Geneva. In September 2026, he will begin the Master’s degree in Biochemistry at the University of Geneva. This program will allow him to strengthen his practical skills in biochemistry and genetics. In particular, he hopes to deepen his experience in laboratory techniques and scientific research. He sees this Master’s degree as an important first step toward a career in research. His ambition is to develop his expertise and contribute to scientific advances in his field. After two years of applications and perseverance, he is especially grateful to finally have the opportunity to pursue this project. He thanks GISN for its support and for giving him the opportunity to pursue his academic goals.
Mohammed Alhabbash is a Renewable Energy Engineering graduate from Al-Azhar University in Gaza, with a strong interest in sustainable energy, environmental protection, and innovative solutions to global energy challenges. His academic and research interests have focused particularly on renewable energy and green hydrogen, including its potential as a clean fuel for transportation and its role in reducing carbon emissions. Having secured admission to the two-year Master's program in Environmental Sciences at the University of Geneva for the September 2026 intake, Mohammed is preparing to broaden his expertise in environmental sustainability, climate challenges, and the relationship between energy and the environment. Thanks to the support of the Gaza International Student Network (GISN), he has received a scholarship, accommodation in Geneva, and assistance with the practical arrangements needed to begin his studies. Through his academic journey, Mohammed hopes to combine his engineering background with environmental sciences to contribute to sustainable energy development, environmental protection, and innovative solutions that can support a cleaner and more resilient future.
Amal Wishah is a researcher from Gaza specializing in database management, information systems, and humanitarian aid tracking. A mother of three, she holds a Master's degree in Business Administration with distinction and a Bachelor's degree in Operating Systems Engineering, graduating first in her major. With more than a decade of experience in systems engineering, academic teaching, and the management of digital information systems, Amal has dedicated her career to using technology to improve decision-making and humanitarian response. She has been admitted to the Ph.D. program in Information Systems at the University of Geneva, where she will begin her studies in September 2026. Through the support of the Gaza International Student Network (GISN), she secured a grant from a foundation, accommodation in Geneva, and assistance with admission, visa procedures, and evacuation arrangements. Passionate about applying data and technology to address complex humanitarian challenges, Amal aims to advance research that strengthens crisis response, optimizes humanitarian aid delivery, and supports evidence-based decision-making for communities affected by conflict.
Maha O. A. Rafee is a pharmacist from Gaza with more than six years of experience in community pharmacy and healthcare in conflict-affected areas. She has been admitted to the Master of Science in Global Health at the University of Geneva for the 2026–2027 academic year. She has also had the honor of receiving the Students at Risk (StAR) scholarship from UNES. In the short term, she hopes to return to Gaza as a researcher and educator, contributing to the development of global health education. In particular, she aims to work on humanitarian health, health policy, and pharmaceutical policy. Her professional goal is also to advise local NGOs and the Palestinian Ministry of Health. She hopes to organize training sessions and workshops focusing on health challenges in conflict-affected areas. Drawing on her experience, she wishes to put her skills at the service of vulnerable populations. In the longer term, she aspires to establish a regional center for innovation in global health. This center would develop solutions tailored to the needs of communities living in conflict-affected settings. Through this work, she hopes to share the lessons learned from the Palestinian experience and contribute to advances in global health.
Mahmoud Al Massri holds a degree in Biomedical Engineering and is originally from Gaza. He has a particular interest in medical technologies, computer science, and their applications in healthcare. During his studies at Al-Azhar University in Gaza, he developed a project involving a wearable device for anxiety monitoring. The device combined multiple physiological sensors, biomedical signal analysis, and machine learning. Having been admitted to the Master’s degree in Computer Science at the University of Geneva for September 2026, he wishes to further develop his skills in computer science. His goal is to build bridges between digital technologies and the medical field. With the support of the Gaza International Student Network (GISN), he has received a scholarship, accommodation in Geneva, and administrative support. This assistance has facilitated his admission process, visa application, and arrangements for his evacuation. Mahmoud therefore hopes to make the most of his dual expertise in biomedical engineering and computer science. He aspires to contribute to the development of smart healthcare technologies and innovative digital solutions.
Fatima Akram Darwish is expected to graduate from the Islamic university of Gaza with a Bachelor’s of Science in Biotechnology by September of 2026. During her academic studies, she developed a foundational knowledge in modules such as : genetics, molecular biology and diagnostics, cancer cell biology and biotechnology based modules, alongside some courses in several topics like : bioinformatics and molecular biology techniques.
However, given that she studied online due to the genocide, she still decided to dedicate her time in volunteering as a science teacher for elementary school students and as an English tutor, where these experiences strengthened her cooperative spirit towards her community.
She’s highly intrigued by genetics, how genetic mutations affect hereditary disorders and affect cancers, and raising awareness about genetic counselling in her hometown is vital. She aims to pursue a master's degree in genetics and molecular biology or other related fields, and gaining skills and research experiences.
Amal Waleed Qaraman graduated from the Islamic University of Gaza with a Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology. She achieved 95.3% in the Tawjihi and graduated with a GPA of 87.09%. During her undergraduate studies, she developed a strong interest in cancer research and conducted a literature review on lung cancer treatment as her graduation project.
Alongside her studies, she joined an online research training program, where she learned different research techniques and developed skills in bioinformatics. She also participated in a Journal Club, where she read scientific research papers and gave presentations on topics related to cancer biology.
Her interest in cancer research has encouraged her to pursue postgraduate studies, with a particular interest in cancer immunotherapy. She hopes to deepen her knowledge and gain more research experience in this field.
Heba Al-Balbisi is a Nursing graduate with an excellent academic record.
She graduated with a cumulative GPA of 86.05%, with a top-term GPA of 93%. She is currently completing the administrative requirements to begin her practical internship.
During her clinical training, she gained hands-on experience in several hospital departments.
Her work in Neonatology and Pediatrics strengthened her passion for specialized child care.
Her Emergency Department rotation further developed her clinical and communication skills.
She also obtained a Basic Life Support (BLS) certification covering patients of all ages.
Heba plans to pursue a Master’s degree in Critical Care Nursing abroad. She hopes to contribute to improving healthcare and serving her community through her expertise.
She also aims to build an international professional network and contribute to scientific and cultural exchange in nursing.