“I used to see life in black”

18-year-old Ahmed lives in a small village near Nablus in the West Bank, which is under constant threat of violence, whether from the Israeli military or armed settlers.

Sadly, Ahmed has been shot multiple times with live ammunition, resulting in numerous wounds that have required extensive medical attention. Two of his closest friends have been killed in the violence.

Ahmed says: “I used to see life in black and became more pessimistic. I spent a large portion of my time at the cemetery beside the graves of my friends. And sadness became a feature of my character.”

Ahmed was referred to the Rehabilitation Programme at the East Jerusalem YMCA, our partner. The individual counselling sessions he received there helped him to process his trauma and resume his education. He now has a job he loves in an aluminium workshop.

He says: “I see the bright aspects in life and now I can overcome all difficulties and challenges. I began to think more about self-development and my professional future. I now love my profession and love my life.”

*Name changed