Access for All: SDF launches a unique capacity-building program to enhance accessibility skills of youth with and without disabilities
In partnership with Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP), SDF launched a tailored program to build the capacities of young members of the “Access for All” network. This program is part of the project “Access for All: Enhancing the independence and inclusion of people with disabilities in the Gaza Strip.”
Participants were split into two groups of 15, one in Deir Al Balah, in the middle area of the Gaza Strip, and the other in Gaza City, in the north Gaza Strip. The six-day training, led by specialised trainers, laid the groundwork for establishing a youth network that will lead humanitarian interventions, focusing on supporting people with disabilities and responding to their needs in the Gaza Strip.
Diverse training topics
The program entails several training topics focusing on advancing community engagement and advocacy for people with disabilities based on human rights principles. This includes learning sessions on optimal standards for humanitarian interventions, rapid response and resilience support efforts, situational analysis, protection and inclusion, and needs assessment through digital tools.
Participants were also introduced to data collection and analysis tools such as Google Forms, Excel, and Richard’s random sampling equation. They have also learned to design and lead advocacy campaigns for the rights of people with disabilities during the ongoing war, conduct social accountability sessions, and prepare SMART recommendations for service providers.
After a year and a half of war on Gaza, this program is such a rewarding experience. Youth are the driving force toward effective change and development.
Hosam Sobh, Project Coordinator
Effective engagement of youth with disabilities
A group of young people with disabilities actively participated in the program, which emphasised the program’s vision of inclusiveness and accessibility through integration and in-person engagement during the training.
As a person with physical disability, this is the first time to engage in an inclusive training that fully considers inclusivity. We will collaborate to advocate for the rights of people with disabilities.
Israa Abu Lehya, participant
“This is an eye-opening experience for me. I learned how to be an active voice to advocate for the rights of people with disabilities. Inclusion is not a mere concept, but a principle that needs to be integrated. I am excited to make a change.” Bashar Asad Fayyad, participant
“For me, being part of this network is a remarkable opportunity to enhance my skills and knowledge. I am grateful to be part of this space, and I am proud of my colleauges, who teach me as well. Everything here is beyond my expectations.” Mohammad Abu Moaeliq, participant
Access for All project
SDF launched this one-year project in April 2025, aiming to foster inclusion and independence of PWDs in the Gaza Strip and other marginalised communities. The Access for All Youth Network, informed by the capacity-building program they participated in, will lead 12 community interventions and several advocacy and accountability campaigns, which ultimately aim to enhance inclusion and accessibility to public services.