SDF’s Youth Summit 2024: “To Whom It May Concern”, a message of steadfastness and resilience 

The Social Developmental Forum recently conducted the fifth version of the “Youth Summit” a three-day event of dedicated discussions and impactful dialogue panels that highlighted various topics related to displacement, humanitarian aid, youth involvement, and transparency of relief aid distribution. This year’s summit was held under the thematic title “To Whom It May Concern.” 

SDF’s team organized the summit, implemented in partnership with the AMAN Coalition; Transparency Palestine. With active participation as facilitators, speakers, reporters, and moderators, SDF’s youth network was at the heart of the summit’s activities. The summit took place from November 09–11, bringing together decision-makers from local organizations, international institutions, and youth leaders in round table discussions.

Remarkable participation: Youth-led effort 

Yosra Ayyad, Chair of the SDF’s board delivered an opening speech where she acknowledged the significant participation and involvement of youth in the summit. “This is an exceptional event that would not have come true without the determination of all stakeholders, reflecting years of dedication to this platform. Despite the brutal war, youth didn’t give up and remained steadfast and resilient toward their dreams and homeland,” said Mrs. Ayyad. 

Highlighting the SDF’s mission, Ayyad says: “This summit reflects our deep-rooted belief in the importance of youth-led dialogue. We are determined to move ahead and sustain developmental and survival prospects for our community, ensuring no one is left behind; Implementing this event amid current challenges is sufficient proof of this commitment.”

“I am glad that we made it to the fifth version of the Youth Summit; an extraordinary event that underscores the crucial role of youth-led relief interventions.”

Hossam Sobuh, Social Developmental Forum (SDF), Project Coordinator

First dialogue panel; “How are displacement camps managed?” 

This session took place in the Safe Learning Spaces (SLSs) at the “Together For Palestine 3” camp in Deir Al-Balah, Middle Area of the Gaza Strip. The panel hosted Dr. Nahidh Eid, representing the “Brotherhood Displacement Camp,” Adam Al-Mobayyad, a member of the youth committee at the camp, and Sami Fajhan, a member of the management committee of the camp. 

The session was moderated by SDF’s youth network member Nagham Al-Zain who aimed to highlight the significance of active youth participation in relief interventions and operations. Dr. Eid shared his journey from being displaced to managing a camp and eventually forming a committee to oversee and support camp affairs. 

Mr. Al-Mobayyad emphasized the importance of youth involvement in managing and leading displacement centers, citing their activeness, commitment, and willingness. Mr. Fajhan described how “Together For Palestine 3” displacement camp was initially self-managed through volunteers. Gradually, specialized committees were established to manage operations with relief organizations. 

Second dialogue panel: “Role of youth during emergencies” 

This session was moderated by SDF’s youth network member, Mohammad Al-Kolak, featuring SDF’s youth network member Yousef Hilles, Asil Hussein member of the project “Youth Networks for Transparency,” and Nour Nassar, coordinator of “Schools Without Borders” initiative. 

Mr. Hilles highlighted the SDF Youth Network’s role in leading SDF’s relief response intervention, describing them as the “fuel” for SDF’s operations. Ms. Hussein discussed transparency and integrity initiatives launched by the youth network, while Ms. Nassar shared challenges, particularly concerning funding, in establishing over ten educational centers across Gaza for children. 

Third dialogue panel: “Displacement communities and service providers” 

The third session, “Displacement Communities and Service Providers,” moderated by Afnan Al-Shuraihi, featured the Deputy Programs Director at Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP UK); Mohammad Al-Khatib, Director of the Palestinian NGOs Network (PNGO); Amjad Al-Shawa, representative of the World Central Kitchen (WCK), Saeed Abu Gaza, and Board Member of the Social Developmental Forum; Naji Naji.

Mr. Al-Shawa praised youth determination, expressing that “the work we do and the impact we observe encourage us to maximize our efforts.” Mr. Naji highlighted SDF’s multifaceted approach toward emergency response through “Together For Palestine.” Mr. Al-Khatib shared MAP’s efforts in health and relief sectors, and Mr. Abu Gaaza shared WCK’s approach, which adapted to Gaza’s needs by providing on-ground aid. 

Highlights from the audience!

The dialogue panels designated a space at every session to receive inputs from attendees, including youth, NGO representatives, and decision-makers. Highlighting youth’s essential role in Gaza amid the crisis, Mr. Al-Khatib emphasized that “youth drive communities forward and have become the backbone of relief work in Gaza.” 

Mr. Abdul Moneim Al-Tahrawi, consultant and trainer at several NGOs noted that conducting the summit this year, despite the challenges, showcases youth resilience. Asil Safi, a young participant, remarked, “It’s inspiring to see the energy and genuine desire of youth to lead change. The Youth Summit’s greatest message is persistence, even in times of crisis and war.”

An Annual Youth Event: Hope Lives On 

The previous version of the youth summit was planned for November 2023, which couldn’t happen due to the escalated genocidal war. This year, SDF and Aman conducted the 2024 version under fire and displacement. 

The dialogue panels along the summit served as a safe platform to demonstrate the youth’s role and the necessity of systematic relief efforts despite the war. This determination was clearly communicated through insightful discussions with guests and attendees, who all acknowledged the importance of joint actions.” 

Ahead of the summit’s dialogue panels, 19 young trainees from the middle and southern areas of the Gaza Strip participated in an intensive six-day training on humanitarian work principles during emergencies. This enabled them to play a crucial role in planning and executing the summit’s activities.