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

Ghada Rifai, a Syrian refugee and Ph.D. student at Rutgers—Newark, shares her journey from war-torn Syria to pursuing her studies while advocating for her fellow countrymen. After fleeing Aleppo in 2012, she has faced the realities of being a refugee yet remains committed to promoting peace through her work and civic organization. Her experiences emphasize the strength of the Syrian diaspora and their ongoing fight for their homeland’s future.

Ghada Rifai, a Rutgers—Newark Ph.D. student in Urban Studies, fled Syria in 2012 due to the civil war. Having survived the violence that devastated her hometown of Aleppo, she arrived in Newark in August 2024. Rifai, an architect and urban planner, is not only pursuing her academic goals but also advocating for her compatriots still in Syria, emphasizing the importance of documenting their experiences within academia.

Rifai’s journey to safety has been fraught with separation and challenges, as her family members sought refuge in various countries. After her initial escape, she reflected on the confusing nature of becoming a refugee, noting that the experience does not come with a singular moment of realization. Additionally, she has encountered difficulties related to anti-refugee sentiment and political narratives that vilify displaced persons.

In 2009, she co-founded Mobaderoon, a civic training organization dedicated to fostering social responsibility and peace. Amid the chaos of war, Mobaderoon took on the mission of facilitating dialogue among Syrians to share thoughts and fears, thereby promoting peacebuilding efforts. The organization’s impact has been recognized, earning prestigious awards such as the 2024 Outstanding Peace Organization Award from the Luxembourg Peace Prize.

At Rutgers—Newark, Rifai finds a supportive environment where she feels valued and welcomed. She expressed gratitude for the inclusiveness of the community, stating that everyone contributes uniquely to their collective efforts. While she acknowledges the challenging road to peace in Syria, she remains resolute, promising that the Syrian diaspora continues to advocate for their homeland.

Although Syria often goes unmentioned in news reports, Rifai is determined that the resilience and commitment of the Syrian people will never waver. Her story exemplifies the strength and courage of individuals navigating the trials of war and the refugee experience.

The article discusses the experiences of Ghada Rifai, a Ph.D. student who fled the Syrian Civil War, reflecting on the implications of becoming a refugee and the challenges faced during her journey. It highlights her commitment to advocating for her fellow Syrians through her academic work at Rutgers—Newark and her role in establishing a peace-oriented civic organization. Additionally, it explores the ongoing plight of Syrians amidst a prolonged conflict and the importance of documenting their stories for future generations.

Ghada Rifai’s journey illustrates the immense challenges faced by refugees, particularly those displaced by the Syrian Civil War. Her dedication to enhancing understanding of the Syrian experience through academic and civic engagement highlights the vital role of advocacy. Despite the obstacles, Rifai’s resilience and commitment to peacebuilding exhibit the determination of the Syrian diaspora to seek a brighter future for their homeland.

Original Source: www.dailytargum.com