Through the Lens of Humanity

As part of World Humanitarian day, videographer and photographer Majdi Samman talks about his experiences travelling to conflict zones and capturing his experiences on camera.

Growing up in the conflicted region of the Occupied Palestinian Territories, I’ve been exposed to a world that most people only see through the news. The unrest, pain, hope, resilience – these were everyday realities for me.

This early experience has shaped my life’s mission and prepared me for my role as a videographer and photographer with Islamic Relief.

In my work, I’ve travelled to some of the most afflicted places in the world. From the warring regions of Syria, to the catastrophic blast in Lebanon, the famine-stricken villages of Somalia, and the poorest areas of Mali – I’ve seen humanity at its most vulnerable. My lens is my tool for capturing these moments and the raw emotions those we help feel in these difficult moments.

The Power of Photography and Videos

They say a photograph or video clip is worth a thousand words, it’s a window into the world’s most conflicted zones and an intimate look at lives that might otherwise remain invisible. For many, these images are their first and perhaps only insights into far-off tragedies. The power of the lens is not just in the image it captures but, in the narratives it builds.

During my visit to Syria, I encountered children who had seen too much for their young age. Their eyes held stories of loss and survival, but also hope. The images I captured there not only tell the story of a 12-year crisis but also show the resilience of the human spirit.

The Impact of Witnessing Humanitarian Crises

Being in the middle of such profound human suffering and triumph has inevitably shaped my worldview.

In the remote villages of Mali, I found people whose lives are fundamentally different from mine but whose dreams, fears, and love are similar.

Every year for the past three years, I have journeyed back to Bosnia for the anniversary of the Srebrenica massacre. Along with others, I attend the funeral prayer carried out for the dozens of victims found every year. These newly discovered bodies are laid to rest in a solemn commemoration. The experience is heart-wrenching but necessary, a way to honour those lost and to never forget the lessons history has taught us.

The blast in Lebanon was a visceral reminder of how quickly life can change. I was there, capturing the aftermath, seeing the shock in people’s eyes, and the community coming together to rebuild. These images were not just about the devastation but about the strength of the Lebanese people.

A Mission Close to Home

This year calamity struck close to home, in Turkey, where I reside with my family. Living in Turkey for the past 11 years has allowed me to deeply connect with the country and its people. When the earthquake struck, I was not just a photographer capturing the events; I was a part of the community. Working alongside Islamic Relief, we supported and helped those affected, providing material aid and emotional support.

My experiences have taught me that even in the most difficult moments, there’s a common thread of humanity that binds us all. My lens has allowed me to see this, and I believe it is my responsibility to show the world.

I want people to see the faces behind the headlines, to understand that these are not just stories from far away. We cannot turn away from what’s uncomfortable; we must engage, empathise, and act.

Through my work with Islamic Relief, I hope to continue to use my camera as a voice and a tool to shed light on the unseen. In the end, we are all connected, and it’s through understanding and empathy that we can make a real difference.

Please continue supporting Islamic Relief so that we can reach more vulnerable people around the world. Donate now.

World Humanitarian Day: Reflecting on Two Decades of Unwavering Commitment

World Humanitarian Day is a day dedicated to recognising humanitarian personnel and those who have died working for humanitarian causes. Islamic Relief’s Head of Global Advocacy. Shahin Ashraf, talks about why this year’s theme, ‘No Matter Who, No Matter Where, No Matter What’, resonates so much with her.  

Two decades ago, we found ourselves at a crossroads in history. The world was beginning to understand the magnitude of humanitarian crises, and it was evident that a collective response was needed. That’s when World Humanitarian Day was born. Now, 20 years on, I find myself reflecting on what this day means, on how our work has grown in scale and complexity, and most of all, on the glimmers of hope I’ve seen in places where you would least expect it.

This year’s World Humanitarian Day theme “No Matter Who, No Matter Where, No Matter What”, encapsulates the very essence of what it means to be a humanitarian. We come together under this banner to celebrate the unsung heroes who inspire hope, no matter the odds.

A Global Community bonded by empathy

I’ve been fortunate to witness firsthand the incredible reach of our humanitarian efforts. In places like Ethiopia, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Somalia, Nepal, and beyond, the indomitable spirit of humanitarians is evident. They navigate treacherous terrains, confront perilous situations, and act as pillars of support, driven by the universal values that connect us all. Their relentless commitment transcends geography and divisions, emphasising that humanity is defined by compassion.

Pakistan: A Testament to resilience

A year ago, the devastating floods in Pakistan brought despair to many. Now, at the Islamic Relief office in Larkana, Sindh, I see a glimmer of hope. Our local team have been working tirelessly in scorching 48°C heat, rescuing children, establishing livelihood programs, and distributing agricultural tools. These heroes embody the very essence of humanity. They remain steadfast, serving as a living testament to the power of resilience.

During my visit, I had the chance to talk to a young farmer whose life was upended by the floods but restored through our agricultural programs He was full of gratitude and determination as the told me his story, one of thousands touched by our efforts.

In some of the most remote regions of countries like Pakistan, our efforts may be the only lifeline for the afflicted.

An Unforgettable Encounter in Afghanistan

My work has taken me to the breathtaking landscapes of Afghanistan, where Islamic Relief has been actively supporting vulnerable communities.. I met a young woman there, a widow whose husband had abandoned her and her 6 children. She was struggling to make ends meet, but her strength and courage moved me deeply. With the support of Islamic Relief Afghanistan, she has found safety, education for her children.

Her story was a reminder to me that our work extends beyond immediate relief to empowering individuals to rebuild their lives. It underscores the reason why humanitarian work is not just about aid—it’s about restoring dignity and hope to the most vulnerable.

The stories from Pakistan and Afghanistan are examples of the intricate web of humanitarian work being carried out every day. These field experiences remind us that our shared humanity is our greatest strength, and that, in the face of adversity, empathy and resilience are our most valuable tools.

Looking Ahead

World Humanitarian Day 2023 serves as a call to action for all of us. By embracing the principles of “No Matter Who, No Matter Where, No Matter What,” we contribute to a legacy and stand in unity, reaffirming our commitment to a world where empathy prevails.

Today, 20 years on, I’m filled with pride and humility as I reflect on how the humanitarian work has expanded and evolved. On this World Humanitarian Day, I invite you to join us, support us, and remember the countless heroes on the frontlines. Their dedication, often in the face of immense adversity, showcases what it truly means to be a humanitarian with Islamic Relief.

Please continue supporting Islamic Relief so that we can reach more people in such areas. Donate now.

Mulu’s Resilience: A Refugee’s Journey of Hope and Strength

As the world joins together to commemorate World Refugee Day, it is crucial to shed light on the experiences of those who have been displaced by conflict and turmoil. In this article, we share the inspiring story of Mulu, a resilient 30-year-old woman from Abderafi, Ethiopia. Her life has been marred by violence and loss, but through her unwavering strength, she offers a glimpse into the hardships faced by refugees and the hope that can emerge from their stories.

A Life Shattered by Conflict

30-year-old Mulu vividly remembers the life she once had in her hometown, Abderafi, Ethiopia. It was a life full of simple pleasures and hard work, but all that changed in an instant when conflict broke out.

“Back home, I saw things no one should ever witness: bombs exploding, people dying, friends and a family torn apart,” says Mulu, her voice wavering as she recalls the traumatic events. “It was unimaginably hard.”

Mulu’s husband, a soldier, did his best to protect her. Despite the danger, they made the difficult decision to flee together. Their journey was fraught with danger. “Soldiers held a knife to my husband. We witnessed his friends being killed in front of us. The horror was beyond anything you can imagine,” she shares.

Resilience in the Face of Loss

Living now in a refugee camp, Mulu is adapting to a life she never imagined. Along with her husband, she has taken a 16-year-old orphan under her wing. ” Life in the camp is tolerable but leaving my family behind… that’s something I struggle with daily,” she confesses. “Even though I am disabled and face my own set of challenges, my heart and thoughts are with them.”

The tragic separation from her family occurred when bombs began raining down on her village. “Everyone ran in separate directions… that’s when we got lost. My father, a soldier, didn’t make it. I am not sure where my mother and siblings are. The uncertainty keeps me awake at night.”

In the face of these daunting challenges, Mulu has shown remarkable resilience. But her disability adds an extra layer of complexity to her daily life in the camp. She is unable to walk long distances and falls frequently, making the use of shared facilities such as latrines incredibly difficult.

Unmet Needs and Global Crisis

Despite the overwhelming adversity, Mulu speaks with gratitude of Islamic Relief’s assistance, especially their door-to-door delivery services. These services have been a lifeline, allowing her to avoid difficult and potentially dangerous trips for essentials. “Islamic Relief Ethiopia has been an absolute blessing. They’ve provided cooking pots, utensils, a boiler, plates, and hygiene kits. But I still need clothes, a mobile phone to reconnect with my family, a flashlight for moving at night, and a more comfortable sleeping mat given my condition,” she says.

Mulu’s story echoes the reality of refugees worldwide. The UN Refugee Agency reports a staggering 68.5 million individuals have been displaced, nearly 25.4 million of them are refugees. Displacement, often triggered by conflict and climate change, predominantly affects developing nations, stretching their resources thin and intensifying vulnerabilities.

Aman Soufi, Islamic Relief’s Humanitarian Advisor, emphasises, “On World Refugee Day, we are reminded of the harsh conditions faced by millions of displaced individuals. Many lack basic necessities, such as shelter, healthcare, education, and means of livelihood.”

“Mulu’s narrative underscores this harrowing reality. It highlights the injustice that prevents refugees from living with dignity. This is a humanitarian crisis that demands attention and action, particularly from wealthier nations.”

Islamic Relief’s approach extends beyond meeting immediate needs; it also focuses on advocating for sustainable peace and security. The organisation is committed to addressing the underlying issues causing displacement, including conflict prevention and peacebuilding.

As we stand in unity #withrefugees, Islamic Relief continues its efforts to aid refugees like Mulu. We provide essential aid while fostering resilience and social cohesion. However, more must be done. We invite you to join our efforts in enabling refugees like Mulu to lead dignified lives. You can make a difference by signing and sharing the #withrefugees petition and donating to Islamic Relief.