Volunteer Spotlight: Niveen

We are the future of this country and we should work hard on ourselves, educate ourselves and develop our skills for a stronger Palestine.

This Volunteer Spotlight features Niveen Al-Najjar. Niveen is 23 years old, from El Ein refugee camp in Nablus, and a current volunteer at TYO.

How long have you been a volunteer at TYO and which classes have you participated in?

I've been at TYO for a long time. This is my sixth session as a volunteer. Previously, I was a bus monitor and this session, I've also joined as a Core Program volunteer.

What do you study?

I finished high school and did not go to university. Because of that, I have a lot of free time.

How did you hear about TYO?

I began working for a short period of time from the UNRWA job creation program at the Women's Center in El Ein camp. TYO partners with all the refugee camps - especially in the schools and women's centers. When TYO came to our center to hold information sessions for mothers, I sat in on the meetings and learned more about their programs.

Why were you motivated to come?

Through the meetings I attended, I realized the importance of TYO's programs and the valuable services they offer the disadvantaged children and mothers. Because I like children, I saw TYO as a perfect place to do work with an age group that I love. Because I did not complete my education, TYO helps me grow and gives me real-life experiences I may have missed otherwise.

What was your favorite moment/class at TYO?

My happiest moments are when I see changes and the differences we make in our children. And when the children start implementing what they are being taught at TYO in their homes, it means our efforts are paying off. All of the classes at TYO are beautiful and each with its own theme, curriculum and activities. This variety means there's always new things to learn here!

What have you learned as a result of your time spent here?

I have learned to be more responsible and pay attention to detail. I have also learned how to better educate children. Most importantly, I've learned that although we are living under many different situations as Palestinians, we are all equal.

What is your hope for tomorrow's youth?

I want all young people to be aware of their importance in their community. We are the future of this country and we should work hard on ourselves, educate ourselves and develop our skills for a stronger Palestine.