~ Hello, I'm Katerina, and I'm from the United States. I'm raising funds for my good friend Islam, who's life has been devastated by the ongoing situation in Gaza.

~ Islam lost his home, access to education, multiple family members, friends, the ability to provide for himself, and all semblance of a normal life for the past two years.

~ Funds from this campaign will be sent directly to Islam and used to cover expenses for his travel outside of Gaza, the continuation of his education, and for basic living expenses during this transition period.

Below is Islam's story, in his own words...

Islam Maher — The Young Man Who Survived War to Dream Again

My name is Islam Maher, and I am a young man from Gaza.

I was born on June 6, 2004.

I grew up like any other young man, with big dreams. Despite the long-standing blockade and the simplicity of life in Gaza, my family was able to create a beautiful life for me, full of love and hope for my future. I believed that education was the only way to build a better future for myself and my family.

In high school, I worked hard and achieved a grade of 85%.

Graduation was one of the most beautiful days of my life, because my hard work had turned my dream of enrolling in university to study software engineering into a reality.

I entered university and began living the best years of my life. I was learning, programming, and planning for my future...

But war was waiting for me just on the other side of hope.

When Everything Changed

With the outbreak of war, there was no "tomorrow".

The streets I used to walk through turned to ash, and the house that was once filled with the voices of my mother and siblings became a pile of stones and dust.

My family and I fled from one house to another, and then from one tent to another.

I saw death in front of me many times. I suffered from famine, fear, and everything terrible a person can imagine because of the war, as we searched for shelter and safety that did not exist.

Each time we were forced to flee, I thought it would be the end... but each time, God decreed life for me.

And each time I survived again, I became more certain that I must survive this.

⛺ From University Student to Tent

I was forced to drop out of university, as my university was reduced to a pile of rubble. In fact, the entire education sector in Gaza has been destroyed. My laptop was smashed under the rubble of my home along with everything else I had.

Today, I live in a small tent with my family. The winter is harsh on us, and the summer is extremely hot. Instead of pursuing my education and studying like other students around the world, I spend my time and effort struggling to survive and to provide the most basic needs for myself and my family.

However, I still cling to my dream, despite everything.

Where My Hope Lies

All I wish for is a chance to begin my life again.

I wish for the chance to emerge from the rubble of war, complete my studies in a safe place, pursue my dreams, and strive for a normal life just as everyone else in the world does.

I want to learn, work, and support my family.

I want to live a dignified life like anyone else in the world.

How Your Donation Truly Helps Me

Your donation can make a real difference in my life.

The support will be used to:

~ Rebuild my life after losing everything.

~ Cover travel, study, and living expenses.

~ Enable me to continue my studies at a safe university.

Even a small donation can give me the hope I need to continue on my path.

Thank you to everyone who reads my words, and to everyone who still believes that compassion can change the world.

Instagram: islam_1_0 Link