Twelve-year-old Walid Al-Hussein, like many children his age, had big dreams for his future. He dreamed of becoming a lawyer, fighting for justice and helping those in need. However, his dreams were shattered when he and his family were forced to flee their home in the city of Kafranbel due to the ongoing conflict in Syria.
Walid and his family found themselves in a camp for internally displaced people (IDP) in northern Idlib, on the border with Turkey. The camp, while providing some safety and shelter, was far from ideal. The living conditions were harsh and the distance of schools from their home in the camp made it difficult for Walid to continue his education.
Despite his young age, Walid understood the importance of education and was determined to continue his studies. However, the reality of the situation was that the nearest school was too far from the camp and the journey was dangerous. Walid’s parents, worried for their son’s safety, made the difficult decision to pull him out of school.
This decision was heartbreaking for Walid, as it meant giving up on his dream of becoming a lawyer. He had always been a bright and ambitious student, and the thought of not being able to pursue his education was devastating. However, Walid’s determination and resilience did not falter. He refused to let his circumstances define his future.
Instead of giving up, Walid found a way to continue learning. He started attending a makeshift school in the camp, where volunteer teachers would come and teach the children. The school was not ideal, but it was better than nothing. Walid was grateful for the opportunity to continue learning and he made the most of it.
Despite the challenges, Walid’s passion for education and his dream of becoming a lawyer never faded. He spent every spare moment reading books and studying, determined to not let his circumstances hold him back. His hard work and dedication did not go unnoticed, and soon he caught the attention of a local NGO working in the camp.
The NGO, impressed by Walid’s determination and intelligence, offered him a scholarship to attend a school in a nearby town. This was a dream come true for Walid, who had never thought he would have the opportunity to attend a proper school again. With the support of his family and the NGO, Walid was able to continue his education and pursue his dream of becoming a lawyer.
Today, Walid is a shining example of resilience and determination. Despite the challenges he faced, he never gave up on his dreams. He is now in his final year of high school and is excelling in his studies. He hopes to one day attend university and become a lawyer, just like he had always dreamed.
Walid’s story is just one of many in the ongoing conflict in Syria. Millions of children have been forced to leave their homes and give up on their dreams. However, Walid’s story also serves as a reminder that with determination and support, anything is possible.
It is crucial that we continue to support and provide opportunities for children like Walid, who have been affected by conflict and displacement. Education is a fundamental right for every child, and it is our responsibility to ensure that they have access to it, regardless of their circumstances.
Walid’s journey has not been easy, but he has shown that with perseverance and determination, anything is possible. He is a true inspiration and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Let us all be inspired by his story and work towards creating a better future for children like Walid, who deserve the chance to pursue their dreams.
