Nasir, a 15-year-old from the Balata refugee camp in the West Bank, has a special talent for making his brother laugh, even in the face of violence. When the Israeli Defense Forces attacked their home, Nasir kept his brother calm and laughing. This heartwarming story was shared during Nasir’s first live stand-up set at the Yafa Cultural Center in Balata on August 8. Nasir and a group of Balata teens showcased their comedy and storytelling skills learned from the center’s “Summer Camp and More . . .” pilot program, led by veteran comedian Mona Aburmishan.
Aburmishan, originally from Chicago with Palestinian roots, has a deep connection to the land and people of Palestine. She has been teaching comedy since 2011 and has performed both nationally and internationally. In 2022, she moved to the West Bank full-time with her husband, Mohammed Karajat, to live in Ramallah near the Balata camp.
The Yafa Cultural Center, where Aburmishan teaches, serves as a refuge for the youth of Balata, offering programs and workshops to keep them engaged and off the streets. Despite challenges such as funding cuts and increased violence in the region, Aburmishan remains dedicated to empowering the students through creativity and self-expression.
Through the pilot program, students not only learn comedy but also gain valuable skills in media production, event planning, and public speaking. The program aims to provide a safe space for the students to explore their talents and share their stories. It also serves as a form of therapy, allowing the students to process their trauma and fears through creative outlets.
Aburmishan’s ultimate goal is to empower the students to speak louder than their adversities and to use their voices to create positive change in their community. By providing them with the tools and confidence to express themselves, she hopes to help them navigate the challenges they face and inspire them to dream of a brighter future.
The impact of Aburmishan’s program is evident in the transformation of the students, who have discovered their talents, broken down barriers to self-expression, and embraced their creativity. Despite the hardships they face on a daily basis, the students find solace and hope in the program, allowing them to envision a life beyond the confines of the refugee camp.
As Aburmishan continues to expand the program and provide ongoing support to the students, she remains committed to fostering a sense of community, resilience, and empowerment among the youth of Balata. Through their shared experiences and stories, the students are not only finding their voices but also inspiring others to see the strength and resilience that lie within the walls of the refugee camp.
