My name is Billa, a 20-year-old girl from Gaza. I am a girl like any other in the world, full of dreams and hopes for the future. I was working hard for my future, excited to start studying at university, when the world as I knew it was swept away. Everything I had was destroyed, my home, my university, my city. The only thing that cannot be taken away from me is my determination to pursue my dreams and live a life worth living.

My dream is to resume my studies, learn new languages, graduate and become a freelance designer, but right now my priority is to rebuild my life and provide for my family. I have a big, loving family who have always been my source of strength. I live with my seven siblings, my parents, and my dear grandmother. They are my life and I love them deeply.

We are now back in northern Gaza, living in my uncle’s house. Out of the four homes my family once owned, none remain. The destruction is unimaginable: entire neighbourhoods are gone, jobs no longer exist, and survival is a daily struggle.

But despite everything, I refuse to lose hope.

This GoFundMe is our only chance to find stability, rebuild our home, and secure a future. I want to continue my education, work to support my family, and create a better future for all of us.

Every donation brings us closer to safety and gives us the chance to rebuild what was taken from us.

Due to GoFundMe's banking restrictions, this fundraiser is managed by Miriam, a friend based in Berlin, Germany, who ensures all donations reach us.