How do Palestinian women navigate the dual challenges of military occupation and a patriarchal society? This episode features a conversation with Niveen and Malak, two passionate participants from the Youth Bridges for Democracy and Participation project. Recorded in Bethlehem, these inspiring women from Hebron share their personal stories of resilience, pride, and perseverance amid adversity. We explore their experiences with restricted movement due to Israeli watchtowers and discuss the broader impact of the occupation on daily life. Despite these hardships, Naveen and Malek's commitment to education and "sumud"—the spirit of steadfastness—shines through as they strive to create change in their communities.

To support community engagement and informed decision-making, PAX and the Palestinian Center for Peace and Democracy (PCPD) carry out the “Youth Bridges for Democracy and Participation” project in the West Bank. This initiative aims to provide meaningful opportunities for local youth to contribute to their communities, fostering empowerment and inclusivity. By, among other things, engaging with local authorities they generate more inclusive decision-making and create opportunities for youth and young women. This interview with Niveen Mansara and Malak abu Ayash i translated by Haneen Hanna. And is hosted by Kristel.

Thanks for listening to the PAX Palestine Podcast. PAX exists because of all our supporters and partners. Donate now to help us work on peace and tell stories that need to be told. Together, we make peace work. Go to paxforpeace.nl and join us now.

Join us as we interview Raneen Shweiki, an young voice from Bethlehem, who shares her journey with the Youth Bridges for Democracy and Participation project. Growing up amidst the vibrant yet challenging backdrop of Bethlehem, Raneen reveals how the initiative has empowered her and fellow youth, especially women, to become active participants in local governance. With the guidance of mentors like Mr. Nassif, Raneen has turned theoretical learnings into meaningful community actions, demonstrating resilience in overcoming the hurdles of military occupation and societal norms.

This episode is the second in this season that focusses on interviews with Palestinian youth in the Westbank that were part of the Youth Bridges for Democracy and Participation Project by PAX an the Palestinian Center for Peace and Democracy (PCPD). This Interview with Raneen Shweiki is translated by Sabreen Mukarkar. And is hosted by Kristel.

Thanks for listening to the PAX Palestine Podcast. PAX exists because of all our supporters and partners. Donate now to help us work on peace and tell stories that need to be told. Together, we make peace work. Go to paxforpeace.nl and join us now.

Curious about how young leaders are shaping the future of Palestine? Our latest podcast episode features an inspiring conversation with Dania Mali, a dedicated advocate from Beit Jala, who shares her transformative journey with the Youth Bridges for Democracy and Participation project. Through this initiative by PAX the Palestinian Center for Peace and Democracy (PCPD), youth and women are learning to step into local governance roles, empowered with the skills and confidence to hold municipal authorities accountable and contribute to their communities.

This episode is the first one of this season that focusses on interviews with Palestinian youth in the Westbank that were part of the Youth Bridges for Democracy and Participation Project. This Interview with Dania Maale is translated by Dina Yatim. And is hosted by Kristel.

Thanks for listening to the PAX Palestine Podcast. PAX exists because of all our supporters and partners. Donate now to help us work on peace and tell stories that need to be told. Together, we make peace work. Go to paxforpeace.nl and join us now.