Palestine - Our team
Samah Hamed
A community development leader with over 15 years of experience in youth and women empowerment, partnerships, and nonprofit leadership. She holds a Master’s in International Studies from Birzeit University and completed a leadership program at Harvard Kennedy School. Samah has led major initiatives across various institutions and works as a freelance trainer in project management and gender-sensitive communication
Hiba Absi
Hiba holds a Master’s degree in Medical Laboratory Sciences and a Bachelor’s in Biochemistry from Birzeit University. She has extensive experience in activating and managing community libraries and founded the Ruwwad library in the village of Qibya. Since joining Ruwwad in 2013, she has led the Child and YouthProgram, working to enhance children’s skills and leadership potential. Hiba believes that every child and young person is a natural-born leader, and that Ruwwad's role is to nurture this potential and support equal opportunities.
Saja tantour
A graduate of Ruwwad’s youth program, Saja holds a degree in Journalism and Political Science from Birzeit University (Class of 2018). She is a community activist with hands-on experience and a deep understanding of local realities. Saja utilizes media and communication tools to support development and drive change, believing that true community work goes beyond service delivery—it requires leading initiatives that make a difference and create new economic opportunities
Yafa Abde-karim
A 2024 graduate of Ruwwad’s youth program, Yafa holds a degree in Physical Education from Palestine Technical University – Kadoorie. Known for her vibrant spirit and strong teamwork skills, she plays a key role in fostering a collaborative and creative environment at Ruwwad’s Budrus center. Yafa is passionate about empowering her local community and strives to create a lasting, positive impact in the lives of youth and children.
Iman Gheithan
A 2023 graduate of Ruwwad’s youth program, Iman holds a degree in English Language and Literature with a focus on Translation. She has strong communication and coordination skills and is passionate about supporting youth and graduates in their professional and educational journeys. Iman believes in creating a nurturing environment that empowers graduates and expands their opportunities in the labor market and society
Neveen Awad
A resident of Budrus village and a 2024 graduate of Ruwwad’s youth program, Neveen hol degree in Accounting from Birzeit University. She oversees the Tal Al-Zaatar project in her village. Passionate about fieldwork and direct community engagement, she remains closely connected to the community’s needs. Neveen actively supports development initiatives that empower women and strengthen the local economy in Budrus