The unwavering desire to carve a better world from the raw fabric of reality.

Zahra’s journey dances across time, a symphony of determination, compassion, and evolution – an embodiment of the universal ardor to mold a better world.

Among these remarkable stories stands out that of Zahra and her family. The intertwined threads of their Palestinian and Iraqi heritage have woven a narrative of survival against the harshest odds – a tale etched with the scars of war, persecution, violence, and loss. Yet, in the heart of Zahra, a glimmer of hope resides, embodied by her journey to Australia. Here, she envisions a future where the struggles of her forebears find purpose and meaning.

Her greatest inspiration was her mother. Her sheer survival was always worn on her sleeve; reminding herself that her children would achieve every dream their hearts desired. 

“My mother had a way of keeping our dreams alive.  

She directed hope towards us and not to herself, I was deeply moved by her selflessness”

Zahra values kindness and recognises its significance in creating a positive impact. To her, kindness is a deliberate and intentional way of making a difference in the world. 

Whilst Zahra knew that she always wanted to create a change, one of her greatest goals was to work at the United Nations – and she did just that at the young age of 19. 

In 2019, Zahra was encouraged to be a youth advisor on the 25th-year review of the Beijing Declaration and Platform and Action. This document is the most visionary agenda for the empowerment of women and girls, everywhere. With thousands of applications, Zahra was selected as the only Pacific representative, as well as the youngest advisory. 

At the young age of 19, Zahra achieved her first professional dream. 

“I didn’t think opportunities like this don’t come to women like me, but it did.”, said Zahra

Since then, Zahra went on to work on the new Generation Equality campaign, founded by the Governments of France and Mexico, alongside the UN Women. 

Zahra’s work with the UN is still one of the most eye-opening experiences of her life. 

In 2021, Zahra was invited to be the youth representative on the Generation Equality Core Group, acting as the only youth board member. Sitting with government officials, and executive directors, Zahra no doubt felt a wave of nervousness to prove herself. 

The Generation Equality campaign had a massive global impact with a successful result of $40 billion dollars being pledged for gender equality. 

Zahra still holds great pride knowing she was a voice who shaped this pivotal campaign.

Following her years of working in the gender equality space, she has received many opportunities to share her work across many corners in the world.

One was being invited to present to the Princess of Jordan. Her other surreal moments include speaking at a conference with Barack Obama, contributing to Vogue Magazine and receiving a fellowship with Duke University in the United States. 

Zahra’s fellowship at Duke University explored the intersection of using culture and religion to drive climate change. She was one of 25 applicants selected out of 5000 people to share her work in climate and gender justice. 

“As I grew further into my role, my mindset shifted.

I am now a listener and understood the power of listening.”

However, her role does come with challenges. She has experienced a significant amount of hate, including death threats and sexual harassment. Shifting their focus proved challenging, but they gradually learned to disregard the negativity.

There is also a common misconception that young advocates need to be fueled with anger and in an aggressive voice to bring about change. 

I now strongly disagree with this notion.

It is essential to adhere to the rules and guidelines set by the organisation she is a part of. She believed that grassroots advocacy held the utmost significance in effecting change.

She realised that change will not be achieved through a one-sided, confrontational approach; rather, it requires a movement where diverse perspectives are encouraged.

Zahra recognised the importance of approaching with grace and kindness, understanding that meaningful conversations and collaboration were crucial.

What I have learned from all this is…

“Be patient and meet in the middle”