By: Henri Brown – England

I have had the most incredible time in Palestine. Before I came to the camp, I expected it to be focused on politics and life under the occupation of Israel; to a certain extent that was true. However, the amount of social activity we took part in, as well as the cultural visits, really helped to make the camp really very enjoyable and a rounded experience complementing the daily workshops.

Seeing such well-known names as “Jerusalem”, “Bethlehem” and “the Dead Sea” was incredible, and this trip to the holy land provided me with the experiences that I never thought I’d have.

From the church of the Nativity to bobbing in the Dead Sea, I can’t think of a better group of people and volunteers to experience such cultural sites and emotional moments with.

A large part of my personal experience has been getting to know my students as I helped them through a “mobile phone film making workshop” and I sincerely look forward to seeing what they have produced and of course keeping in touch on social media. I certainly have no shortage of selfies to remember them all by! I’ll miss them all very much.

Another highlight of the trip for me has been the willingness of the Palestinian volunteers to help me with my Arabic language surely, of which I have completed first year at university. They put up with me when I got it all wrong and were very encouraging when I said the right thing.

Finally, the hospitality here has been unequal to anywhere I have been. From treatment like royalty at the traditional Palestinian wedding to the exceptional treatment of my host families, I have been made to feel nothing but welcome into Palestine and I am truly grateful for the chance to have this amazing experience!

Long live ZAJEL!