Success Story of Hisham Fakhouri – Psychosocial Support Trainer; Tulkarem, West Bank

“In the midst of uncertainty and the pressing challenges faced by our community, the 'Palestine Emergency Early Response' (PEER) project emerged as a beacon of hope and transformation. Through a series of comprehensive training sessions, we began to shape our identities as trainers and influencers within our society. These sessions were not just about learning skills; they were about understanding the art of training, mastering the arrangement of presentations, and grasping the unique needs of young people. One of the most profound lessons was the importance of providing psychosocial support, ensuring that the youth remained aware, understanding, and connected to their community.

As we delved deeper into the project, we found ourselves growing more connected to our environment. We realized the significance of our presence as influential figures, even if our impact seemed small at times. Each action, each effort to remain active and engaged, contributed to our collective human value in society.

Projects like 'PEER' have a remarkable ability to foster self-discovery. They encourage us to explore the depths of our capabilities and skills, revealing aspects of ourselves we might never have known. I firmly believe that every individual possesses untapped potential; they just need the right motivation and encouragement to uncover it.

The project’s activities had a transformative impact on our community. It addressed the urgent needs of our time, particularly during a state of emergency. The youth, facing a myriad of challenges, found a renewed sense of belonging and identity through the project. It became a crucial anchor, especially when many were contemplating emigration, seeking a sense of home elsewhere due to the pervasive uncertainty and lack of support from governmental bodies.

In such a fragmented national landscape, where young people felt unsupported and adrift, the urgency to act became clear. The 'PEER' project stepped in, offering a lifeline that prevented our youth from losing their way and succumbing to negative paths. By addressing their problems and nurturing their sense of belonging, the project played a vital role in fortifying their resilience and helping them rediscover their potential and purpose within their own community.”