Mais Mehjez

My name is Mays Muhjez, and I am a student from Jabalia in North Gaza. I currently study Intelligent Systems and Computer Engineering at Al-Aqsa University. I chose this field because I believe that technology is the language of the future, and through smart systems and artificial intelligence, I can help create solutions for the problems my community faces every day. Since I was young, I have been passionate about computers and dreamed of becoming an engineer who creates real impact.

However, my journey has been filled with hardship and pain. During the October 2023 war on Gaza, our home in Jabalia was destroyed in an airstrike. We lost everything. Among the most devastating losses was my laptop, which was not just a device—it was my essential tool for studying, coding, attending classes, and staying connected to my goals. Replacing it is impossible right now, as we have no financial means to afford a new one.

I come from a family of 8 members, and after losing our home, we have been struggling just to survive. We don’t have a stable place to live, and we can barely find food and clean water. Every day is a battle to cover the most basic needs. Despite this, I’ve held on to my dream. In 2023, I achieved a 95% in the Palestinian high school exam (Tawjihi). After joining university, I completed my first semester with an 85% GPA, which I am proud of given the difficult conditions.

But today, without a laptop, no internet access, and no safe home to study in, my future is under threat. My major depends heavily on access to technology, programming tools, and online learning. Without support, I fear I may fall behind and lose the opportunity I worked so hard for.

Financial assistance from donors would completely change my life. It would allow me to purchase a laptop and meet the academic needs of my program. Most importantly, it would bring me hope—a reminder that even when the world feels broken, there are people who care, who believe in the power of education, and who support students like me in the darkest of times.

One moment continues to push me forward: standing among the rubble of our destroyed home, looking at the shattered pieces of my laptop, I told myself:
"They can destroy our homes, but they cannot destroy my will to learn."

My dream is not only to graduate but to rebuild what was lost, to help my community rise again, and to show that even in Gaza, under the most difficult conditions, hope and education can light the way.