By Vynce Steff

It is hard to believe that my first visit to Palestine was in July 2016- and what a memorable visit it was. My original thoughts were mainly on the illegal occupation, the brutality of the regime and the hideous circumstances in which Palestinians are expected to live. These thoughts were focused very much on what was wrong with Palestine.

In 2017, I want to focus on what is right with Palestine. The people’s desire to strive for a better life is top of my list. Despite their atrocious circumstances, they are happy, optimistic and so incredibly giving. They are the most generous people you’ll ever meet. They have an incredible spirit which I believe will remain undefeated no matter what pressures they face.

The educational value of the visits to towns like Acre, Jenin and Hebron was invaluable in allowing us to understand these very proud and industrious people. The beauty of these places is unquestionable and yet everyday life is a struggle for basic freedoms and opportunities; movement, work and human dignity. I want to thank all of the local volunteers for their hard work in looking after the international group and for making us feel so welcome and secure.

What the Zajel’s team did was incredible. They welcomed us, they helped us, they demonstrated the beauty of their homeland, they took us to the most wonderful places and they shared every moment with us. For the international volunteers, this was an incredible opportunity. That is why, on behalf of all of the group, I say that we are eternally grateful.

The programme was also a great opportunity for the local volunteers and students to understand the worldview of people from different cultures to their own. We built strong relationships and friendships, and those lead to better understanding in both ways. The programme is the best starting point for people that are looking for a change in the world and learn about the culture of opportunities there is.

I support the Palestinian people in their fight for a better life. What Palestine needs now is peace, justice and security and I pray that that day will come soon.