Mona Aburmishan, a veteran comedian with roots in Chicago and Palestine, has been working with teens at the Yafa Cultural Center in Balata to teach them comedy and storytelling skills. The center, located in one of the largest refugee camps in the West Bank, offers programs and workshops for community members of all ages. Mona’s program, “Summer Camp and More . . .,” aims to provide the students with a safe space for expression and creativity.
The students, who have faced trauma and loss due to the ongoing conflict in the region, are given the opportunity to share their talents and stories through comedy. Mona encourages them to use their frustrations and fears as material for their performances, allowing them to manage and understand their trauma in a constructive way. The students learn how to produce a show, design flyers, and manage cash flow through ticket sales, giving them valuable skills for the future.
Despite the challenges they face, including pushback from some parents and the constant threat of violence, the students have shown remarkable growth and resilience. They have discovered their talents, broken down barriers to self-expression, and gained confidence in public speaking. Mona plans to continue the program, expanding it to include more media production elements in the future.
The students express a newfound sense of hope and optimism for the future, with many dreaming of traveling to places beyond Balata. They see the program as a transformative experience that has enabled them to share their creativity and skills with the world. Through Mona’s guidance and support, they have found a way to navigate their pain and fear through comedy and storytelling.
The Yafa Cultural Center, along with Al-Quds University, provides students with job placement opportunities and resources to help them build a better future for themselves. Mona’s dedication to the students and her commitment to fostering a safe space for expression have had a profound impact on their lives. Through her program, she hopes to empower the students to speak louder than their adversities and to share their stories with the world.
