Mahmoud, 16, Palestine

Basic need(s):

Education, Safety

Project:

“Young Reporters Across Borders”

Mahmoud’s city of Hebron, greatly affected by the Israeli/Palestinian conflict, is plagued by violence and faces a tense political situation. At the age of 13, Mahmoud began to publish his opinions, research and photographs about the conflict in a magazine he created. His schoolmates, learning a lot from his work, requested to join him in his efforts. As a result, he created “Young Reporters Across Borders,” bringing together 15 girls and boys interested in using journalism to advocate for children, the needy and an end to the Israeli/Palestinian conflict. Because many people showed an interest in his project he also created a media club, which teaches over 40 youths how to use a pen and a camera to impact society. One of their most successful initiatives has been a documentary on child labor. The team interviewed child workers and those responsible for hiring children. The film has been quite successful, and has aired on local television networks and at human rights conferences. Mahmoud hopes to build a strong union between journalists throughout the world and to use his work to help create peace between the Palestinians and Israelis.

Photo: Benjamin Quinto