Hala Mdouk

Before the genoicide, Hala Mdouk used to take part in Hands up online link ups with different volunteers around the world with her class in Gaza. But it’s really as a poet that she came into her own. She has her work published in four different Hands up books! This is her story.

“I’m Hala, 17 years old, from Gaza….

I grew up in a place that taught me how to be strong in silence, and how to keep my dreams alive despite everything that tries to extinguish them. I believe that a person is known by their depth, not by their noise, and by their impact, not by their words.

I joined the Hands Up Project in 2023, starting my journey by attending Zoom sessions with Ms. Amal, which opened a window for me into a world full of inspiration, learning, and opportunities to express myself. It has been an honor to be part of Hands Up Project, a space that gave me the chance to be myself, to learn, and to work within a team that believes change begins with a sincere step. Through this journey, I discovered my ability to make an impact and to turn quiet passion into real action.

Within the Hands Up Project, my role was as a poet and writer; I expressed through words what often remains unspoken, transforming emotions and experiences into texts with meaning and impact. I accomplished many literary works, including publishing my own book, which carries my voice and experiences, and also contributing to a collective book titled “From Dust, We Rise”, a shared space for stories of resilience and hope.

I want to extend my gratitude to everyone who has been part of my journey in the Hands Up Project, and to everyone who believed in my ability to express myself and create. A very special thanks to my friend Nick, who believed in me from the beginning, stood by me, and supported me every step of the way. Your presence has made a huge difference in my journey, and I will never forget your support”..