Month: July 2025

In every person’s life, there are defining moments that shape who they become and fuel their drive to make a difference. The story of Dr. Maher Arafat, a lecturer in the Department of Management Information Systems at An-Najah National University in Nablus, is one of those inspiring journeys that reflect the power of determination and the impact of sincere support.

In 1985, as a young man full of ambition and hope, Dr. Maher was granted an opportunity that would forever change the course of his life—a scholarship and student loan from Arab Student Aid International, which allowed him to pursue a degree in Computerized Information Systems at the University of North Carolina in the United States. This was not just financial aid—it was an investment in a person, in a vision, and in a promise.

At the time, Dr. Maher made a heartfelt commitment to the president of the organization, Mr. Ishaq Qutob, that he would return to his homeland—Nablus—and dedicate his knowledge and experience to serving his community. That promise was never broken.

He came back to Palestine, armed with knowledge and a deep belief that education only reaches its true purpose when it is shared and used for the benefit of others. He continued his academic journey at An-Najah National University, earning two master’s degrees—one in Business Administration in 2002, and another in Curriculum Development and Teaching & Learning Strategies in 2010. This academic path allowed him to bridge technical expertise with a strong educational vision.

Since 2006, Dr. Maher has been serving in the Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology at An-Najah, where he teaches, innovates, and inspires future generations. He continues to act as an agent of change and development, just as he had once envisioned at the start of his journey.

Today, more than three decades later, Dr. Maher Arafat stands as a living example of the power of education and the lasting impact of targeted support. In this video, he expresses his deepest gratitude to the organization that believed in him and gave him the opportunity to fulfill both his academic goals and his personal vow to give back to his people.

His story is a powerful reminder that scholarships are more than academic aid—they are sparks that ignite change, keys that open doors to hope and responsibility, and proof that keeping a promise is the highest form of gratitude.

My name is Taline, and I am a Strategic Communication major at The Ohio State University, currently working toward my bachelor’s degree. I have always had a strong passion for using media to connect with others, inspire change, and make a real impact. Storytelling and
community engagement are at the center of my work, and I am driven by the power of authentic communication to move people and ideas forward.

I started my internship with Arab Student Aid International (ASAI) in May 2024. From the beginning, I was surrounded by a supportive team that introduced me to the nonprofit world and encouraged me to think beyond traditional communication roles. This experience showed me that working in a mission-driven environment is where I thrive. When I found ASAI, I knew it was the right fit.

At ASAI, I have focused on building my skills in public relations and social media, both of which are tools I plan to carry into my future career. One of the most rewarding parts of my internship has been working directly with students in the LIFT crowdfunding program. I helped them shape their stories to raise funds for their education and built strong relationships along the way. I also led virtual crowdfunding workshops through Microsoft Teams, creating presentations to walk students through the process and guide them on how to strengthen their narratives.

This experience has also been meaningful on a personal level. As a Palestinian American, being surrounded by Arabic speakers helped me reconnect with my culture and improve my language skills in a supportive environment.

Being part of the nonprofit space has been one of the most valuable experiences in my academic journey. It prepared me for my Communication Campaigns course, where I was paired with a nonprofit client. I felt confident applying what I learned at ASAI to help the organization grow its reach, increase engagement, and strengthen its connection with the community. This was more than just a class project; it was an opportunity to make a real impact.

I believe strategic communication is a powerful force for good. I am passionate about helping students overcome financial barriers and using storytelling to amplify voices, build bridges, and spark lasting change. My goal is to continue working in spaces where communication drives action and where stories make a real difference.

I have been a part of Arab Student Aid International (ASAI) since late 2020, early 2021, and my journey with the organization has been nothing short of transformative. I first joined the team as an IT specialist, where I focused on system security, technology development, and resolving technical issues for users across our platforms. Even though I was working remotely from another country, this setup quickly became a strength rather than a limitation. It pushed me to become more adaptable, collaborative, and proactive while also giving me the chance to expand my technical skills in ways I hadn’t previously explored.

As time went on, my role within ASAI began to evolve. I became more involved in broader aspects of application and project development, gaining insight into the operational and strategic sides of nonprofit work. I eventually had the opportunity to support the media department, which added a creative dimension to my experience and allowed me to grow beyond the technical scope of my initial role.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my time at ASAI has been the opportunity to lead workshops, training sessions, and webinars for students. These experiences not only allowed me to share my knowledge and empower others but also helped me develop confidence in
public speaking and team leadership. Being able to contribute to student success through interactive learning sessions has been both humbling and fulfilling.

What has truly made this experience stand out is the environment at ASAI. The organization fosters a culture of support, growth, and collaboration. I have had the privilege of working alongside a team of dedicated, inspiring individuals who are committed to making a real difference in students’ lives.

Looking back, I am incredibly grateful for how far I have come since joining ASAI. This opportunity has allowed me to strengthen my skills, take on new challenges, and grow both professionally and personally. It has been an enriching chapter in my career, and I am excited to carry forward all that I have learned here.