Resilience Through Creativity: Standing with Masafer Yatta

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

– Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV)

As Holy Land Trust, we have always been committed to standing in solidarity with the people of Masafer Yatta (Southern Hebron Hills), an area facing immense challenges due to ongoing displacement threats and daily violations by settlers and the Israeli army. Since 2017, we have initiated and supported various projects, starting with the Sumud Camp, a vital component of the Sumud project. This project aims to support Palestinian communities in Area C by fostering resilience and steadfastness in the face of forced displacement. Through nonviolent resistance, international solidarity, and capacity-building initiatives, the Sumud project empowers local communities to remain on their land and assert their rights despite ongoing threats. We have also provided 10 solar system units to the community to further strengthen resilience in Masafer Yatta.

One of our most impactful initiatives was the Art Therapy project in 2022, where we worked with 30 children from Masafer Yatta. Through theater, drama, music, painting, and handcrafts, these children found a way to express their pain and emotions in a safe environment. Each session was monitored by a psychologist to ensure that the children, who endure trauma from the ongoing conflict, could find a sense of healing and hope. At Holy Land Trust, we believe that creativity is a powerful tool for transformation, allowing individuals to reclaim their stories and envision a better future.

 

Basel Adra in No Other Land (Dir: Basel Adra, Hamdan Ballal, Yuval Abraham, Rachel Szor. Palestine/Norway. 2024)

The power of storytelling and artistic expression was recently recognized on a global stage when the Palestinian documentary film No Other Land, co-directed by Basel Adra and Yuval Abraham, won the Oscar for Best Documentary. This historic achievement marks the first time a Palestinian film has won this prestigious award. No Other Land is a deeply personal and powerful film that chronicles the struggle of Palestinians in Masafer Yatta as they resist the demolition of their homes by the Israeli army. Through the lens of Basel Adra, a Palestinian activist and journalist, and Yuval Abraham, an Israeli journalist, the film provides an unfiltered look into the lives of those fighting to remain on their land, despite the relentless pressures of forced displacement and military occupation. The documentary stands as one of the most significant films about the Palestinian struggle, bringing international attention to the resilience of those who refuse to abandon their homes.

“… as we call on the world to take serious actions to stop the injustice and to stop the ethnic cleansing of Palestinian people.”
Basel Adra’s speech at the Oscars

Basel Adra’s speech at the Oscars. Photo: Rich Polk

In addition to film, Palestinian creativity is also making waves in entrepreneurship. The Resolute RGL sneaker startup is a remarkable initiative that highlights the resilience and innovation of Palestinian youth. By designing high-quality sneakers, this initiative showcases the strength and determination of Palestinians to succeed despite the challenges they face. At Holy Land Trust, we recognize and support such initiatives that empower communities and create economic opportunities, reinforcing the idea that even in adversity, creativity and innovation can thrive.

Through our continued work in Masafer Yatta and beyond, we remain committed to fostering resilience, supporting artistic expression, and empowering communities to turn trauma into hope. Together, through creativity and solidarity, we can build a future where every voice is heard, every story is valued, and every dream has the chance to become reality.

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Trainings by Anna Gamma
20.-27.02.2025

Building Resilience Through Leadership and Mindfulness
Over the past weeks, Holy Land Trust has hosted a series of transformative training sessions led by Dr. Anna Gamma, focusing on leadership, emotional resilience, conflict resolution, and mindfulness. These workshops provided staff and local trainers with practical tools to navigate stress, develop self-awareness, and enhance their capacity to lead in challenging circumstances. Through guided meditation, discussions on trauma and political instability, and interactive activities, participants explored the power of emotional intelligence in conflict resolution and leadership. Dr. Gamma introduced techniques rooted in Zen philosophy, emphasizing the importance of inner balance and clarity.

The sessions also delved into the physiological and psychological effects of stress, equipping participants with strategies for stress reduction and resilience-building. Staff members engaged in open discussions about the personal and professional difficulties they face due to the ongoing political instability in Palestine, highlighting the emotional toll of their work. Dr. Gamma provided valuable insights and tools to help maintain emotional strength and well-being. By the end of the training, participants felt empowered and supported, ready to integrate mindfulness and leadership skills into their daily work. These sessions marked an important step in HLT’s commitment to fostering resilience and ensuring that its team remains strong in their mission to create positive change.

HLT extends its gratitude to Dr. Anna Gamma for her invaluable contributions and to all participants who engaged wholeheartedly in this transformative experience. We look forward to continuing this journey of growth and resilience together.