Stories
February 21, 2025 • 4 min read
A mother’s resilience amid war and displacement – Forced to flee relentless conflict, Layla Ahmed and her three children have faced repeated displacement in Lebanon. With support from GOAL’s partner, Naba’a, she continues to rebuild her life despite ongoing hardship.
Layla Ahmed, a 40-year-old mother of three from Lebanon, has endured years of hardship, uprooted by the relentless cycles of war and displacement. Forced to flee their home in South Lebanon on October 23rd, 2024, she and her family have faced the immense challenges of rebuilding their lives while navigating the instability that comes with repeated displacement. Yet, through resilience and with the support of GOAL’s partner, Naba’a, Layla continues to protect and provide for her children, embodying the unwavering strength of mothers in crisis.
Seeking Safety & The Impact of Repeated Displacement
The young family lived peacefully in Bazourieh, southern Lebanon until their world was shattered by airstrikes. The bombings destroyed homes, including those of their neighbours and Layla’s uncle, forcing them to flee in search of safety.
They initially sought refuge in Burj Al-Shamali camp, hoping for safety, but the violence soon followed.
“We endured heavy shelling in Burj Al-Shamali,” Layla recalls, her voice heavy with emotion.
The trauma caused by the conflict eventually took its toll on the young family.
Layla’s son, Jamil, began suffering from severe panic attacks, leaving them once again uprooted, this time to Saida – Jadra.
Despite her relentless efforts to keep her family safe, war continued to follow. When their home in Jadra was bombed, she had no choice but to flee yet again. With her three children, she embarked on a harrowing 100km journey to Tripoli—alone—while her husband remained in Burj Al-Shamali.
Each escape was a desperate attempt to find security, yet conflict and uncertainty remained constant shadows in their lives.
Layla Ahmed, mother of three, was impacted by repeated displacement due to the ongoing conflict in Lebanon.
Nine Hours of Fear
The relentless displacement and the constant threat of airstrikes particularly impacted young Jamil. Already struggling with seizures, the ever-present drones and aircraft over Bazourieh, only worsened his condition.
The nine-hour journey to Tripoli was harrowing, an impossible environment for a fragile child’s well-being. As airstrikes raged around them, Layla handed her son a small kitten to soothe him.
“I gave him the kitten to keep him calm as we passed a building in Ansariyeh that was being bombed,” she recalls.
Once in Jadra, the family found themselves trapped, unable to move freely, and with no immediate support from local organisations.
“We struggled to meet even the basic needs of my children during the war,” Layla says, her voice heavy with sadness.
A Lifeline of Support
Amid the darkness, a glimmer of hope came through Naba’a – a local Lebanese NGO and GOAL partner dedicated to empowering marginalised communities across Lebanon, with a focus on children’s rights.
A social worker from Naba’a, who knew of Layla’s plight reached out, offering help.
“Naba’a provided us with food supplies and clothing for the children,” Layla says, her gratitude evident.
Beyond meeting urgent needs, this support gave Layla a renewed sense of hope during a time of despair.
Layla with GOAL partner Naba’a in Tripoli.
Naba’a – a GOAL Partner
Naba’a works to identify the most vulnerable families living in displacement – families like Layla’s- ensuring they have access to safe housing and essential aid.
Through direct consultation, Naba’a ensures families are active participants in shaping their recovery, tailoring support to their specific needs and priorities. This engagement enables Naba’a, with GOAL’s support, to provide essential food parcels, clothing, and safe housing—offering a vital lifeline during an ongoing crisis.
By prioritising community-driven solutions, Naba’a empowers displaced families to rebuild with dignity, fostering resilience amid uncertainty.
Layla dries clothes in her new homes in Tripoli.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Layla’s story is a testament to the resilience of a mother determined to protect and provide for her children, even in the face of unimaginable challenges. Her journey, marked by loss, fear, and displacement, is one of countless stories of families affected by the war.
Layla’s courage and determination continue to inspire those around her as she works tirelessly to create a better future for her children.
As we reflect on Layla’s journey, it is a reminder of the importance of supporting families affected by war and displacement. Together, we can provide the lifeline they need to heal, rebuild, and hope for a brighter future.
