"From Palestine to Brussels: A Youth Exchange Carried by Courage and Conversation"

In a powerful convergence of hope and advocacy, eight young Palestinians journeyed from their homeland to the heart of Europe—not as tourists, but as storytellers, advocates, and change agents. Their destination: Brussels, where European institutions shape global discourse. Their mission: to represent the voices of Palestinian youth at a time when global attention is fixed on the human rights violations unfolding in Gaza and the West Bank.

This remarkable youth exchange was organized under the Youth Lead program, implemented in partnership with UNFPA and generously funded by the European Union. But it was far more than an educational visit—it was a strategic, youth-led advocacy mission designed to engage policymakers, civil society, and fellow youth in meaningful dialogue about justice, equity, and freedom.

The delegation included: Fatima Hamaydat, Ismael Awawdeh, Luna Yasir, Sara Tardeh, Ahmad Awad, Rand Abu Farha, Motaz Mtour, and Lara Yassin—eight passionate youth leaders with experience in legal advocacy, civic engagement, media, and community mobilization. Each brought a unique voice, rooted in lived experience and driven by the urgent need for change.

During their time in Brussels, the group met with Members of the European Parliament such as Marc Botenga and Staf Aerts, engaged with key civil society organizations like 11.11.11, Act Alliance, and Association Belgo-Palestinienne, and connected with youth-led media platforms like Les Ambassadeurs and Ghent FM. The agenda also included academic visits and peer exchanges with local youth networks, offering a multidimensional experience rich in learning and inspiration.

More than just meetings, these were deep conversations. Participants shared personal testimonies of growing up under occupation, navigating restricted education, and enduring political violence—yet also spoke of resilience, leadership, and the power of youth organizing. They asked bold, informed questions, proposed ideas for collaboration, and extended an invitation for solidarity.

One striking outcome of the visit was the receptiveness of European officials to structured, youth-led engagement. Policymakers not only listened but expressed a desire to continue the dialogue. The delegation’s approach—grounded in preparation, purpose, and authentic storytelling—left a lasting impression, opening doors for future collaboration.

As they returned home, the young leaders carried more than memories—they brought back new skills, strengthened networks, and a renewed determination to advocate for Palestine on both local and international stages. They became bridges between two worlds, proof that youth voices can rise above borders and politics to forge human connection and drive collective change.