Manal, once a lawyer advocating for the oppressed, defending the rights of women and children, and alleviating the suffering of others, saw her life change overnight. The random violence of war took everything from her. Her home, once a sanctuary of safety and warmth, turned to ashes under an unforgiving barrage of shells. The tragedy didn't stop there; her children, whom she had envisioned a bright future for, suffered fractures, a painful reminder of the war’s brutality that spares no one.
Now unemployed and homeless, Manal finds herself displaced, bearing the responsibility of an entire family. She struggles to provide the most basic needs for her three children, who look to her with eyes searching for the safety and warmth that was stolen from them. In these painful moments, finding milk and the necessities becomes a daily battle, a fight for survival, and a struggle to reclaim some semblance of dignity washed away by the torrents of war. Amidst this destruction, Manal and her family stand as symbols of resilience and hope, silently fighting, challenging despair with what little strength they have left.
Today, we extend our hands to Manal and her family and invite you to stand with them to bring some light back into their darkened lives. Manal's friends started a GoFundMe campaign for her, and your donation can make a difference, no matter how small. It can bring smiles back to the faces of children who have forgotten how to smile. It can plant hope in the heart of a family that has nearly lost faith in tomorrow. Let us unite to be the light in the darkness.
Manal Al-Barawi: From Lawyer to Entrepreneur
Name: Manal Al-Barawi
Business: Leen Fashion
Manal, a lawyer by profession with a passion for drawing and hand embroidery, founded Leen Fashion in 2017, her brand name the same as her first daughter's name Leen, with hopes she would continue the legacy. Leen Fashion specializes in Palestinian embroidery and drawing, employing 50 women skilled in hand embroidery. Each product tells a story, from embroidered dresses to accessories and wall hangings. Al-Barawi also ran a sewing workshop, training and employing women in sewing and embroidery, making the project a beacon of hope and a source of income for many refugee women. The project flourished, with products reaching global markets.
Al-Barawi participated in numerous exhibitions and received awards from the Business Women’s Forum and the Chamber of Commerce. Unfortunately, all this prosperity was shattered when the war on Gaza and the struggle of refugees began. The project’s store and her home were bombed and turned into rubles, leaving Manal and her employees jobless and without an income. The sewing machines and fabrics were destroyed, and Manal became a refugee, moving from place to place, searching for her children's safety.
The Challenges Faced
When she was asked about the biggest challenges she faced during the war, Al-Barawi said, “We became homeless, and I had to find the strength to stand firm for my family. I am the sole provider for my three children and a sick husband who needs care and treatment”. Al-Barrrawi added, ” We endured hunger, extreme inflation, and many displacements.”
Perseverance and Resilience
Can you share any memorable experiences that highlight your perseverance?
“One memorable experience was when I managed to gather a few women around from our displacement camp to teach them hand embroidery in the midst of chaos. Despite the danger and fear, we found solace in creating something beautiful together. It was a moment of unity and hope, reminding us of our shared strength and resilience. This act of coming together, even in the darkest times, highlighted our ability to persevere and support each other. I will never forget their enthusiasm to do something that is completely different from our daily war routine.”
How did you manage to stay resilient amidst such difficult circumstances?
“Staying resilient was not a choice but a necessity. My children and husband needed me to be strong. I drew strength from the memories of our happier times and from my commitment to my family and community. I reminded myself daily that giving up was not an option,” Manal added,” The support from fellow Palestinians, even in small gestures, kept me going. Knowing that I wasn't alone in this struggle gave me the courage to face each day with determination.”
Dreams and Plans for the Future
What are your dreams and aspirations for life after the war?
“My dream is to rebuild my house and business, Leen Fashion, and expand it further. I want to provide stable jobs for women in Gaza and create products that tell stories of Palestinian refugees to the world. I also dream of a peaceful future for my children, where they can grow up without the constant fear of violence. I aspire to see them thrive and achieve their own dreams one day.”
Do you have any specific plans for rebuilding your life and restarting your craft?
“I plan to start by purchasing new sewing machines and fabrics. I am looking for a safe location to set up a new workshop. My goal is to re-establish my project, rehire the skilled women who previously worked with me, and provide them with the tools and resources they may need to create our unique Palestinian embroidery products. Manal Al-Barrawi - Founder of Leen Fashion, added: “I also want to invest in training programs to help more women acquire skills in the embroidery and sewing field.”
How has the support from your community or others helped you during this time?
“The support from my community has been incredible. From the small acts of kindness, like sharing food, to the moral support and encouragement, it has been a lifeline. It has shown me the power of solidarity and the importance of standing together in times of crisis. Additionally, the international support for refugees from Gaza, including donations and awareness campaigns, has provided much-needed resources and hope.”
Support from people around the world
We`ve asked Manal, one of the refugees from Gaza, about the support from people around the world and what it means for Manal, and many refugee women like her. The answer was well-said: Support from people around the world means everything to Manal. It reminds her that she and her community are not forgotten, that their struggles are seen, and their voices are heard. This support gives her hope and strength to fight for a better future. Knowing that people care and are willing to help makes a significant difference in their lives. It serves as a source of encouragement and a driving force behind her determination to rebuild and succeed.
Manal remains passionate about rebuilding her business and seeks support to rebuild her home and re-establish her project. Her goals include bringing back skilled workers and reopening homes that depended on this income.
Despite the destruction, Manal and her family remained resilient. She challenges the circumstances, striving to care for her children and secure a livelihood. She dreams of reviving her project, needing support to start over, purchase materials, and rebuild her sewing workshop. Her determination symbolizes the enduring spirit of Palestinians who continue to fight for their rights and dignity.
Support Manal’s Journey
As one of the stories from Palestine refugee camps, Al-Barrawi`s story is a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of Palestinian refugees. Her journey from a thriving entrepreneur to a war-affected refugee survivor illustrates the harsh realities faced by many. Supporting Manal by purchasing handmade products provides her with an income and keeps the Palestinian cause alive in the global consciousness. Every keffiyeh or embroidered piece sold tells a story of survival and hope. Once the war is over and Manal and her team resume production, Rajaeen will work with Manal to bring her products to the USA and market them. But for now, you can help Manal by donating to her GoFundMe campaign.
Let’s come together to support Manal and others like her, ensuring their voices are heard and their talents are recognized. Your support can help rebuild lives, provide hope, and create a brighter future for those affected by conflict. Check the Maker stories section to learn more about their stories and how you can contribute to making a difference.
