Ghada Rifai, a Syrian refugee, is pursuing a Ph.D. in Urban Studies at Rutgers—Newark while advocating for her homeland. Fleeing the war in 2012, she highlights the struggles faced by refugees, including anti-refugee sentiments. Co-founder of Mobaderoon, an organization promoting peace, she emphasizes the importance of community support and remains hopeful for Syria’s future despite ongoing challenges.
Ghada Rifai, a Rutgers—Newark Ph.D. student, fled Syria in 2012 due to the escalating conflict that threatened her life in Aleppo. Since arriving in Newark in August 2024, she has pursued a Ph.D. in Urban Studies while advocating for fellow Syrians enduring the ongoing civil war. “I believe we at a local level are doing great work, and we need to document it in academia. So that’s why all my assignments, all my writing, whatever I do, I do for Syria,” she stated.
As a refugee, Rifai shares the plight of many who have escaped the oppressive regime of Bashar al-Assad, which has led to widespread displacement. Approximately 4.7 million Syrians are recognized as refugees, primarily seeking asylum in Turkey, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Rifai’s family was separated during their escape from Aleppo, with relatives in the Netherlands and Canada, and her own realization of her refugee status was gradual rather than immediate.
Rifai also experiences challenges related to anti-refugee sentiment, struggling against preconceived notions about immigrants. “I feel like I have to explain myself all the time,” she remarked, indicating the realities faced by refugees globally. In 2009, she co-founded Mobaderoon, a civic training organization dedicated to promoting peace and social responsibility amidst the conflict, which has grown to include over 4,000 members and received notable awards for its efforts.
At Rutgers—Newark, Rifai expresses gratitude for the supportive community and feels a sense of belonging. “I do not feel like I am different. I feel like really I belong, and everyone is an added value,” she noted about her experience in the academic environment. Despite the ongoing turmoil in Syria, she maintains hope for the future and emphasizes that the Syrian diaspora remains active in advocating for their homeland. “In news, there is nothing about Syria. But we Syrians will never give up,” she affirmed.
The Syrian Civil War, which began in 2011, has resulted in a severe humanitarian crisis, prompting millions to seek refuge around the world. The conflict, characterized by widespread violence and human rights abuses, has significantly impacted urban areas such as Aleppo, leading to devastating losses and displacement. The Syrian refugee crisis has created challenges, including anti-refugee sentiments in host countries, where refugees often face barriers to assimilation and support systems. Organizations like Mobaderoon, co-founded by Ghada Rifai, aim to foster social responsibility and dialogue among communities affected by the war, promoting peacebuilding initiatives in the face of adversity.
Ghada Rifai’s journey from war-torn Syria to pursuing her Ph.D. at Rutgers—Newark encapsulates the resilience of Syrian refugees. Despite facing significant challenges, Rifai continues to advocate for her homeland while contributing to academia. Her experience highlights the need for awareness regarding the refugee crisis and the enduring spirit of those displaced, asserting that the Syrian diaspora remains committed to fighting for their future.
Original Source: www.dailytargum.com
