Rutgers—Newark Ph.D. Student Ghada Rifai Advocates for Syria from Abroad
Ghada Rifai, a Ph.D. student at Rutgers—Newark, escaped war-torn Syria in 2012 and now advocates for her homeland. She leads Mobaderoon, a peace-promoting organization, and shares her experiences of refugee life. Despite challenges, she emphasizes the need to document Syria’s story and asserts that the Syrian diaspora remains dedicated to their country’s future.
Ghada Rifai, a Ph.D. student in Urban Studies at Rutgers—Newark, fled Syria in 2012 due to the dangers posed by the ongoing civil war. Upon settling in Newark in August 2024, she committed herself to advocating for the people of Syria through her academic work. With a full scholarship, her endeavors aim to document the resilience of Syrians affected by the protracted conflict.
Escaping the chaos of war and the oppressive regime of Bashar al-Assad, Rifai left her home in Aleppo with her family, expecting to return swiftly. However, years later, her family remains scattered, with her brother in the Netherlands and her mother in Canada, each navigating the uncertainties of refugee life. According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, around 4.7 million Syrians are registered refugees, the majority of whom are in Turkey.
Rifai reflects on the complexity of her refugee identity, stating, “It’s not a moment, like I (figured) out ‘I became a refugee.'” She has encountered anti-refugee sentiment and the challenges of immigration, often feeling the need to justify her presence.
In 2009, she co-founded Mobaderoon, an organization focused on fostering social responsibility and promoting peace in Syria. “When the war started, we found that we have the ability to put people together,” she noted, emphasizing the importance of dialogue for peacebuilding. Mobaderoon has won multiple awards, including the 2024 Outstanding Peace Organization Award from the Luxembourg Peace Prize.
Rifai expresses gratitude for the support she has received from the Rutgers—Newark community, where she feels a sense of belonging. “I feel like I have to explain myself all the time,” she conveyed about her experiences as a refugee; however, she recognizes the value that every individual brings to the community.
Despite the challenges facing Syria, including a precarious future, Rifai asserts that the Syrian diaspora remains active in advocating for their homeland. “In news, there’s nothing about Syria,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of maintaining hope and tenacity.
Overall, Ghada Rifai’s journey from a war-torn homeland to academic pursuit in the United States underscores the resilience of individuals caught in protracted conflicts, as she continues to use her voice for those who remain in Syria.
The article highlights the perseverance of Ghada Rifai, who fled the Syrian Civil War and is now pursuing her Ph.D. in Urban Studies at Rutgers—Newark. It reflects on the challenges faced by refugees, including cultural and systemic barriers, while emphasizing the importance of activism and community support in lifting voices impacted by long-standing conflicts. The broader context of the Syrian refugee crisis is presented, informing readers about the plight of millions seeking safety across borders.
Ghada Rifai’s story encapsulates the struggles and strengths of Syrian refugees amidst a prolonged civil war. By advocating through her academic work and community initiatives, she embodies resilience and a commitment to peace. Her experiences highlight the need for understanding and support for refugees, while her hope for a peaceful future for Syria remains steadfast.
Original Source: www.dailytargum.com
