Cinema in Displacement Safe Learning Spaces
A unique atmosphere amid a dark night—no lights, just a few colors flickering on a screen projected onto the side of a tent or a light fabric, where children’s eyes were glued. This screen created a sense of “cinema”, most importantly, a glimmer of hope, through which children “took a break”—one far away from war and daily struggles, some normalcy or fantasy, warmer and calmer than their reality. This is what launching the “Cinema” looked like; an initiative led by “Together Towards Hope” youth network, an integral component of the Social Developmental Forum (SDF)’s dynamic youth network. For the first time since October 2023, the initiative could bring entertainment to the heart of displacement camps.
Strengthening Social Bonds
The cinema debuted during an open day organized by the youth network, targeting over 150 children and their families. The event provided a safe space to enhance social connections among families in the “Return” camp, which also hosts a Safe Learning Space established by SDF.
The fact that this initiative provided much-needed entertainment for children was remarkable. The open day featured a screening of Toy Story, a popular animated film for children. The family-friendly movie resonated with children and adults, catering to diverse age groups. Aiming to add a festive touch and create a cinematic atmosphere, T4H network served popcorn and candy for the children.
Positive Feedback
Both children and parents reflected positively on the initiative; Parents expressed their gratitude for creating such a safe educational and entertainment space, allowing their children to “take a break” from the draining situation under the constant threat of airstrikes and bombings. While children enthusiastically enjoyed on-site movies, activities, and snacks.
This activity is a seed of hope for children, teaching them resilience during hard times; by presenting moral messages embedded in the movies, the cinema aims to foster optimal societal values and principles. The initiative combines joy and learning while promoting stronger social bonds among children and their families.
Abdel Hakim Awad, Social Developmental Forum, T4H Coordinator
Awad stated that the “SLS Cinema” experience was “a successful and impactful social and recreational activity”. The youth network team plans to organize similar shows soon to provide engaging educational experiences for other children.
Samir Kanaan, a teacher at the “Return” SLS established by SDF in Al-Zawaida, praised the initiative, describing the atmosphere as “remarkable and uplifting.” He noted that it effectively energized the children and brought joy and entertainment to their day.
A drop in the ocean?
The “SLS Cinema” initiative is one of several innovative activities devised by the T4H network at SDF, to prominently support students and adolescents. Recently, SDF has inaugurated several SLSs across the Gaza Strip. Particularly, in Khan Younis, the middle area, and Gaza City. These spaces devote skilled teachers and host a large number of children at various educational stages.