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Portrait of Laila Atshan

Laila Atshan

Blind Advocate for Peace

Read Laila’s story2 videosAsk about Laila

Why Laila is here

Resilient Promoter of Inclusion and Peace

Their story

Laila Atshan is a blind Palestinian psychologist renowned for her work as a trauma healer, counselor, and advocate for people with disabilities, refugees, and survivors of violence. She serves as a Staff Counselor at UNICEF in the MENA region, using her unique perspective to promote inclusivity and empathy in challenging environments

Milestones

The moments that shaped Laila’s path.

  1. Education and Early Adversity

    Overcame the challenge of being born blind to pursue higher education and become a psychologist, dedicating her life to helping others overcome trauma and adversity.

  2. Advocacy Work

    Significant contributions to promoting the rights of people with disabilities and addressing the psychological impact of conflict and occupation.

  3. International Recognition

    Her efforts have been recognized internationally, allowing her to work with global organizations like UNICEF to train and guide staff in conflict zones like Darfur and Iraq.

  4. Academic Contributions

    As a Mason Fellow at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government, she deepened her impact by engaging with academic circles on issues of conflict and negotiation.

  5. Public Speaking and Training

    Regularly invited to speak at international forums, including the BuildPalestine Summit, to share her expertise in trauma healing and social inclusion.

Legacy

What they built, changed and left behind.

  1. Pioneering Psychological Support

    Developed psychosocial emergency teams in the West Bank, enhancing mental health support in regions affected by conflict.

  2. Training and Capacity Building

    Trained hundreds of professionals, including UN staff and Iraqi university professors, in human rights and conflict resolution.

    Watch

  3. Advocacy for Inclusivity

    Through her public engagements and professional role, she has significantly influenced policies towards greater inclusivity for people with disabilities in humanitarian efforts.

    Watch

  4. Promotion of Mental Health Awareness

    Helped raise awareness about the importance of mental health in conflict zones, contributing to broader recognition of psychological impacts of war.

  5. Empowerment through Education

    Continues to inspire many through her personal story and professional achievements, advocating for education and empowerment of those with disabilities.

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Watch & listen

Laila in interviews, talks and coverage.

  • 01Training and Capacity Building↗

  • 02Advocacy for Inclusivity↗

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