Palestine Sports For Life
Tamara’s journey in using sports to foster community development has been significantly supported by Healing Across the Divides (HATD). This partnership has allowed her organization, Palestine: Sports for Life (PS4L), to implement impactful programs like “My Lifestyle My Health,” radically improving participants’ lives through promoting healthier lifestyles and providing psychosocial support in refugee camps. Tamara’s commitment to utilizing the transformative power of sports stems from her own life experiences. Born and raised in Ramallah, Palestine, she was encouraged by her athletic mother to participate in various sports, which taught her invaluable life skills and instilled a passion for community service. Her journey included competing in national swimming events and being a part of the national basketball team, which not only honed her skills but also built a foundation for lifelong friendships and personal growth.
After relocating to Jordan for higher education, Tamara continued her involvement in sports while pursuing degrees in Information Technology and Business Administration. Her drive to impact her community led her back to Palestine, where she co-founded PS4L in 2010. The organization was born out of her recognition of sports as a vehicle for positive community change, particularly in addressing the lack of grassroots sports initiatives for girls. By creating PS4L, she aimed to provide opportunities for youth development, empowerment, and social change within marginalized communities.
Tamara became aware of HATD through a call for concepts on jobs.ps. The synergy between PS4L’s mission and HATD’s support has enabled the expansion of initiatives in Gaza, where PS4L programs focus on mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) alongside recreational activities for children and mothers. These initiatives are vital in offering relief and fostering resilience amidst the ongoing challenges faced by residents due to the region’s instability.
Looking ahead, Tamara envisions PS4L as a leading force in sports-for-development. Her goal is to extend the organization’s reach both nationally and internationally, concentrating on building community hubs that offer safe spaces for children’s growth and learning. By emphasizing women’s empowerment and developing leadership opportunities, PS4L seeks to create sustainable community transformation. Supporters are integral to this vision, helping PS4L reach marginalized communities and train local leaders. Through their contributions, Tamara and PS4L are not only transforming individual lives but also laying the groundwork for a more equitable future in Palestine.
We at Healing Across the Divides are honored to be working with Tamara Awartani and Palestine Sports for Life
