A Syrian Refugee’s Journey: Ghada Rifai’s Pursuit of Peace and Advocacy

Ghada Rifai, a Ph.D. student in Urban Studies at Rutgers—Newark, fled Syria in 2012 due to the civil war. She advocates for her home country while pursuing her studies and champions the cause of refugees. Her organization, Mobaderoon, promotes peace and social responsibility, underscoring the ongoing fight for Syria’s future.

Ghada Rifai, a Ph.D. student at Rutgers—Newark, fled Syria in 2012 due to the violence of the civil war, specifically after bombings threatened her life in Aleppo. Now residing in Newark since August 2024, she is pursuing a Ph.D. in Urban Studies while advocating for those affected by the ongoing conflict in Syria. “I believe we at a local level are doing great work, and we need to document it in academia. So that’s why all my assignments, all my writing, whatever I do, I do for Syria,” stated Rifai, now 46 years old and benefiting from a full academic scholarship.

The Syrian Civil War, which started in 2011, has resulted in widespread suffering, displacement, and a humanitarian crisis. As of January 2023, the United Nations reports that approximately 4.7 million Syrians are registered as refugees, many of whom sought asylum in neighboring Turkey. Rifai’s journey reflects the experiences of many, including separation from family members and the challenge of navigating societal perceptions of refugees, further complicated by political contexts.

Ghada Rifai exemplifies the resilience and advocacy of Syrian refugees through her academic endeavors at Rutgers—Newark and her leadership in peacebuilding initiatives. Despite the ongoing challenges facing Syria, she remains committed to amplifying their voices and promoting social responsibility. Her story not only highlights the personal journeys of refugees but also underscores the importance of community support and continued activism for a peaceful future.

Original Source: www.dailytargum.com