A roundtable on unity, identity, and the role of the diaspora in rebuilding the Palestinian nation
Ramallah – August 2023 – With immense pride and a deep sense of purpose, Sawaed19 participated in the 10th International Conference for Palestinian Expatriates, held at the Arab American University in Ramallah and organized by the Know Thy Heritage (KTH) organization, based in the United States. The event brought together members of the Palestinian diaspora and national institutions with a shared goal: to build bridges toward Palestine—and for Palestine.
As part of this milestone gathering, Hiba Awaysa, Founder and CEO of Sawaed19, delivered a keynote speech at the roundtable titled: “The Nation-Building Role of Palestinians Globally.”
In a deeply moving and visionary address, Hiba drew on the symbolism of the Palestine Sunbird, a resilient, solitary creature indigenous to the land, whose name was once under threat of erasure. Just like the bird, she said, Palestinians in the diaspora often act as individuals—brilliant, active, yet isolated. But through volunteering, Hiba argued, we can transform individual actions into collective force, capable of reshaping the future of the nation.
“Volunteering is the thread that binds our people across borders, when we unite under a shared mission, we no longer act alone. We become a powerful, collective force for justice, culture, and peace.”
She introduced Sawaed19 as a digital platform that creates a unified space for NGOs and volunteers to collaborate, manage, and report on initiatives that reflect Palestinian values and global solidarity. A platform that have been developed by Palestinian Youth in Palestine. By facilitating virtual volunteering, Sawaed19 invites Palestinians everywhere to contribute to the national cause anytime, from anywhere. The roundtable emphasized that Palestine develops from the common vision, joint action, and solidarity of those at home and abroad. It highlighted the potential of the diaspora to serve as ambassadors, builders, and advocates for a stronger, united Palestinian future.
Sawaed19 also took pride in coordinating the delegation tour in Nablus, in partnership with the Municipality of Nablus and local institutions. The tour offered young diaspora members a lived experience of Palestine’s beauty, challenges, and spirit of resilience.
This historic gathering was organized in collaboration with KTH, Palestinian Vision Organization, Sawaed19, and Sayedat Al-Ard Foundation, reflecting a model of synergy and shared purpose that defines the Palestinian struggle and hope.
📸 See the conference program: KTH Website
“Let us extend the wings of the Palestine Sunbird and soar together toward a vision of unity. When we work together, we are capable of extraordinary things,” Hiba concluded.
