Hello,

my name is Emma, I am a student from California, and i was asked to make this fundraiser to get Ismail’s story out there.

UPDATE:

My name is Ismail Awad, a photojournalist from Gaza, Palestine. I was born and raised here, in the heart of hardship — under blockade, repeated wars, and endless challenges. For years, I’ve worked as a photojournalist, using my camera to document the truth and show the world what life in Gaza is really like. My lens has always been my voice and my way to resist silence.

But today, things have become harder than ever. There is no safety, no stable income, and no chance to work freely as before. The ongoing destruction has taken so much, yet I continue to hold on to hope — the hope to live, to rebuild, and to keep telling our story.

Why Did I Start This Fundraiser?

I started this campaign out of urgent and genuine need, for several reasons:

1. Daily living expenses

Right now, I have no stable source of income. I need support to cover basic needs such as food, clean water, electricity (when available), and transportation — the essentials that allow me to survive day to day.

2. Rebuilding my work and equipment

Most of my photography equipment was lost or destroyed during the bombings. I need to replace my tools so I can continue my work as a journalist — documenting the truth and giving voice to those who can’t speak for themselves.

3. Recovery and mental well-being

Like many in Gaza, I carry deep emotional and psychological wounds from everything I’ve witnessed. Having some financial stability would help me recover, rebuild my strength, and continue my mission with dignity.

How Can You Help?

Every contribution, no matter how small, truly makes a difference. Your support is more than financial — it’s a message of solidarity, hope, and humanity.

From the bottom of my heart,

Thank you for standing with me. ❤️

Ismail Awad – Photojournalist, Gaza