In response to the mental health crisis stemming from recent conflicts in Gaza, Atfaluna Society for Deaf Children, with the support of UNESCO , has implemented a series of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) activities lead by youth with and without disabilities aged 18-29 under the project titled:" Improved well-being and readiness of youth in Gaza to resume learning”. The “Youth for Hope” initiative provides young people with the resources and resilience needed to navigate challenging times while fostering a safe and supportive environment and promotes youth meaningful participation in leading MHPSS responses in the Gaza Strip.

With successful MHPSS sessions completed, youth participants have expressed a renewed sense of hope and positive energy. Basem, a 20-year-old participant, shares, "The activities are amazing; I hope we get to have activities like this all the time." Rana, also 20, adds, "It changed our routine and gave us positive energy," while Saleem, 21, describes the program as "a lovely experience, especially with sessions starting in the early morning."

This project is designed to reach 250 displaced young people through activities focused on emotional expression, resilience building, and self-care. Additionally, 25 youth with and without disabilities volunteers have been trained to deliver peer-to-peer support, further expanding the reach of the project to over 750 young people across Gaza.

By equipping youth with essential coping skills and fostering a youth-led community network, UNESCO and Atfaluna empower Gaza’s next generation to overcome adversity and lead the way toward a brighter, more hopeful future.