Message from Gaza: Mona Joudah

Here in this message from Gaza, Mona shares her thoughts and fears as she works to support the children living around her.

Click here to see more from Mona on Instagram.

Can you tell us a bit about what you do in the workshops with children?

In the workshops, I get to know the children and what they like, and I help them get to know me. We do some basic physical activity.

We try to enjoy our time during the workshop and create an atmosphere of joy and fun for the children. I communicate with the children, support them, encourage them and motivate them to express themselves through drawing. I try to make them feel a little safe.

Why do you think the workshops are important for the children?

The workshops help the children express their feelings and thoughts. The children’s ability to speak is limited and drawing is a means of expression. It reflects the situations they are exposed to. It releases negative energy and difficult feelings. They feel joy and happiness while drawing with bright colours.

What do the children say about the workshops with you?

They express their joy with us. They express their desire for more workshops and wish they were held every day. They talk about the fear they live in and the difficult circumstances.

They talk about their longing for their life before the war and they dream of returning to practicing their previous life away from deprivation, fear and displacement.