Picturing a childhood on paper
Art, in any shape or form, can transform a child’s life. For 13-year-old Walid, drawing has become an essential coping mechanism growing up in hardship as a Syrian refugee child. The boy has found the perfect escape to vent and express his emotions.
Back to the future
Following the death of his father, Walid quit school at an early age. The boy started working in any casual job he could find just to be able to help provide for his family.
Walid recently enrolled as a student in the “Back to the Future” project. His teacher asked him to express himself through illustrations - his thoughts and emotions, his sentiments about his family members, the seasons, and anything else he wanted.
Passion for drawing
With consistent practice, Walid unearthed his passion for drawing. He found himself to be quite good in conveying his feelings and emotional-state through illustrations. He experiences sheer happiness and satisfaction while drawing. “I feel relaxed and happy every time I’m asked to draw”, says Walid.
The boy proudly shares his sketches and drawings with his teacher. “Through drawing, Walid discovered how to express his emotions in a quick and enjoyable way, applying what he has learned in the Psychosocial Support and Life-skills sessions – and it has changed him completely! I’m grateful to have played a part in adding value to his life” says Rowayda, Walid’s teacher.
Back to the Future is funded by the European Union in Lebanon, through the EU's Regional Trust Fund in Response to the Syrian Crisis, the EU Madad Fund, and is implemented in partnership by AVSI Middle East, Terre des Hommes Italy in Lebanon and War Child Holland in Lebanon.