Alhamdulillah, what a profoundly moving evening it was as the Islamic Medical Association of South Africa (IMASA) and Gift of the Givers came together to celebrate the graduation of thirteen remarkable students from Gaza, who arrived in South Africa two years ago and now leave as qualified doctors. These students also represent those students who are also stuck in Egypt and could not make it make to South Africa.

Moving beyond graduation, this was a celebration of everything these young people endured to reach this point, and of the community that stood beside them along the way.

Because their families in Gaza could not be present, we brought the celebration to them by live stream, and across continents. There were tears of joy as parents, siblings and loved ones watched their children walk proudly into a new chapter of their lives. This was a moment they had long dreamed of but could not, through no choice of their own, attend in person.

We were privileged to be joined by lecturers, academic leaders and representatives from Al-Azhar University, the University of the Witwatersrand and the University of Pretoria, each of whom played an integral role in supporting these students throughout their journey.

The evening was filled with shared stories, laughter and nostalgia as we reflected on the difficulties and triumphs of the past two years.

For many of these graduates, South Africa became far more than a place of study; it became a home, complete with friendships, mentors and the families who embraced them as their own. They carried the constant weight of worry for loved ones back home, and yet they never allowed it to stand between them and their commitment to medicine and to the people they will one day serve.

Their journey continues to do internships in countries across the globe. While it saddens us to bid them farewell, our hearts are full knowing they will carry their skill, compassion and experience to communities that need them.

We extend our deepest gratitude to every sponsor who gave so generously over these two years, providing the stability and opportunity that allowed these students to complete their studies, yo the sponsors of the graduation event and to the dedicated members and volunteers of IMASA and Gift of the Givers whose countless acts of kindness, ranging from academic support to a warm meal; from accommodation to encouragement, which created memories that will last a lifetime.

Congratulations to our newly qualified doctors:
Dr Karim Al Najjar, Dr Ibrahim Abu Elaish, Dr Abdallah Aljadba, Dr Abdallah Ghannam, Dr Ahmad Obaid, Dr Tareq Alqeshawy, Dr Younis El Emour, Dr Dima Abdellatif, Dr Manar Jebril, Dr Ghadeer Zourob, Dr Tasneem Abu Zarifa, Dr Ahmed Shbair and Dr Mohammed Abuselmiya.

Though you may be leaving our shores, you will always remain part of the IMASA and GOTG families. May Allah place immense barakah in your knowledge, protect you wherever you go, and make you a source of healing, mercy and benefit for humanity. May He grant you every success in this world and the next. Ameen.

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