By: Michael, Ireland

It’s Michael from Ireland and I participated at Zajel September Camp for two weeks at An-Najah National University. The camp was very well organized from the start. We were greeted so warmly by all of the local volunteers. The atmosphere was always very relaxed and friendly.

The coordinators of Zajel Program always gave us plenty of information and orientation. All of the local volunteers were very attentive and patient with us, even if we were running late sometimes!

I must pay particular tribute to the camp leader Miss Maha Kayed, who coordinated the camp. She worked very hard and was always helpful & understanding.

Coming to Palestine has been a dream for some years now for me, so I am so happy to have achieved it. It is a beautiful country, and, more importantly, it’s people are so beautiful. Palestine is the safest country that I have ever visited! Everywhere the people greeted us and made us welcome.

We saw some amazing places; the historic sites are amazing!

Also we had a great time with each other, all of the European volunteers together, like a family. We also got on really well with all of the local volunteers, we sang, danced and laughed together.

My favorite part of the camp, and the one that I will remember most, is my time with the students in the workshops. It was great to get to know the students and, hopefully, give them some ideas and some encouragement for the future.

I will never forget this time in Palestine and I hope to come back. It will certainly be in my heart forever. Thank you for the opportunity.