we are not numbers

emerging writers from Palestine tell their stories and advocate for their human rights

Asmaa Tayeh

    Asmaa has always seen herself as a young woman with a bright future no matter how negatively the unemployed people around affected her. That journey began when she wondered, “I am checking social media websites almost 24/7. How can I use what I learn to both make a change and earn some money?” That is when she started to dive into the media and writing world.

    After studying English literature at Al-Azhar University, she first volunteered and then was hired as the social media coordinator for We Are Not Numbers. Later, she was promoted to operations manager.

    To her, the communication and writing are the strongest tools for storytelling – a mission to which she has dedicated herself. She also works as a manager for a Gaza rock band called Osprey V, and a social media consultant for different NGOs.

    my work

    I'm not asking for a perfect life because I know a perfect life doesn't exist. I just want to live a life with opportunity.
    My beloved is gone.
    Depression seems to be my constant companion.
    Now we all share the same fear.
    I want to feel "in the mood for love," but how can I?
    One of the feelings that scares me the most is "nothingness."
    Each house in Gaza has a suffering soul inside.
    What a difference 10 years can make. Or not.
    Children in Gaza without hearing are ultimate victims of UN funding cuts.
    When I fall asleep while studying, my brain and my heart flee to another land.
    I want to love Gaza; instead, too many times I find myself screaming, "I hate it!"
    That iconic photo everyone has seen has an amazing back story you just have to read.