A True Story of Courage, Loss, and Light Honoring Palestinian Volunteers
Galway, Ireland | Palestine – December 5, 2024 – On the occasion of International Volunteer Day, Sawaed19 proudly launched The Builders of Tomorrow, a powerful bilingual story authored by Hiba Awaysa, founder of Sawaed19. Inspired by true events and real-life experiences of Sawaed19’s social leaders in Gaza, this story is a tribute to Palestinian volunteers, journalists, civil defense teams, and medical staff who have selflessly served and sacrificed their lives.
The book debuted virtually on December 5 in a heartfelt surprise to the real-life heroes of Gaza, who were visibly moved during the launch video. Shortly after, the English edition was unveiled in an in-person event in Galway, Ireland, held at the University of Galway with the generous support of Dr. Deirdre Curran, Vice Dean for Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion.
“This beautifully illustrated children’s book, featuring the Palestinian sunbird, tells a true story of courage, hope, solidarity and self-sacrifice,” said Dr. Curran during the event. “It signals the power of light over darkness, and love over hate. The story offers learnings, for all of us, on what it means to be human. Hiba gives us a beautiful opportunity to show our support.”
At its heart, the story is a beacon of resilience, narrated through the symbolic Palestinian sunbird. It opens with a deeply moving foreword that pays tribute to volunteers lost in conflict zones, especially in Gaza. It honors the memory of those tragically killed in the ongoing war, including Monther Ghabn, Mosab Masri, Anas Masri, and Mohammad Farjallah, and uplifts the courage of community leaders like Tareq Rajab, Mahmoud Faqawi, Hazem Masri, Abdallah Jundeieh, Leena Jundeieh, and Odai Abu Drabi.
“To each of you, we say: you are not numbers. You are heroes who light our way through the darkest times.”
The Builders of Tomorrow is not just a children’s book—it is a movement of remembrance, resilience, and restoration. All proceeds from the book will directly support social and humanitarian initiatives in Palestine, making each purchase a contribution toward meaningful, community-driven impact.
🛒 Where to Buy the Book:
📍 Ireland (Galway):
Charlie Byrne’s Bookshop
📍 Palestine:
• Nablus: Public Library – City Center
• Nablus: Minis Library (near An-Najah University)
• Ramallah: Online delivery available
• Bethlehem: Wasata for Youth Work Center
🌍 Worldwide:
Available by direct contact via WhatsApp, social media, or email
🛒 Online Store coming soon
📘 Available will be available soon
Sawaed19 invites the international community to carry the light of these stories forward, because even in times of darkness, The Builders of Tomorrow remind us that humanity, courage, and love endure.
