Guest blog by Nour, Chief Operating Officer, Beyond Us

Originally from Silwan, Jerusalem, I am Nour—an activist, videographer, and artist focusing on politics and social justice. I strongly believe in the power of art to heal, bond, and inspire, which is why I regularly lead creative workshops at refugee camps across the Middle East.

My mission is to empower refugees to tell their stories. In pursuit of this goal, I work closely with UNRWA (Worldwide) to document the lives of Palestinian refugees in camps across the MENA region. Through my efforts, I strive to shed light on their experiences and bring attention to the challenges they face. 

Over the past two years, my journey has taken me to various Palestinian refugee camps across the Middle East, where I’ve dedicated myself to gathering poignant testimonials from survivors of the Nakba. These courageous individuals have shared their stories with me, allowing me to delve into the depths of their experiences and bring forth the voices that often go unheard. It has been a profound and humbling experience, as I’ve witnessed firsthand the resilience and strength of those who endured the hardships of displacement. Through these narratives, I aim to shed light on the profound impact of the Nakba, elaborate on the struggles faced by these survivors, and contribute to a collective understanding of the lasting effects of historical injustices. My journey is driven by a deep commitment to preserving and sharing these narratives, ensuring that the stories of the Nakba survivors are not only remembered but also serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of those who have faced adversity. 

I have already gathered about 50 testimonials, and I would like to share some of them with the world through an exhibition and screening. I’m currently looking for a space in London to host my project for February and March 2024. 

Amidst the ongoing crisis in Gaza, described as the second Nakba, the significance of this project has never been more pronounced. As the world witnesses the distressing events unfolding in real-time, it becomes crucial to draw poignant parallels between the historical echoes of 1948 and the contemporary struggles faced by Palestinians in Gaza today. By capturing the narratives of the first Nakba survivors, our archival initiative is a powerful tool to bridge the gap between past and present, illuminating the enduring impact of 

displacement, loss, and injustice. These testimonials offer a stark reminder that the wounds of the first Nakba are not only historical but continue to shape the lived experiences of Palestinians today, particularly in Gaza. By connecting these narratives, I strive to ensure that the lessons from history serve as a guiding light, fostering a collective commitment to preventing further injustices and working towards a future where the shadows of the past do not darken the aspirations of those in Gaza. 

If you are a London-based venue interested in hosting Nour’s exhibition and film Refugee Chronicles please get in touch via nour@beyondusnonprofit.org