Program Reviews

Hi, I'm Naurin. I helped volunteer here for a very short time in my eyes, because it really passed by so quick. But I loved every single bit. I was already here for a week in Palestine so I got to know Hebron very well before. But one thing about being here is that I was able to have amazing conversations with some of the younger people here who are going to school. It was really eye opening getting to know their day to day life and it was eye opening for these students to even know about my life and where I grew up, and for them to understand not only the American culture I came from, but also the Bangladeshi culture I came from. It was really amazing getting to know one-on-one with these students. I feel like I truly personally connected with them and I really hope to continue to keep in touch even when I have to leave here. Overall in general, despite the situation going on, the occupation, going through checkpoints and seeing soldiers with machine guns and tactical gear walking around, I really loved being here. I LOVE the sense of community here and I really rarely see that even in the US. I love how everyone helps everyone out no matter what. In terms of safety, as a foreigner, especially as a woman, I did feel very safe. I've walked around at night time by myself and it hasn't been a problem. I don't recommend it in general tbh lol, but just to show that indeed I did feel safe even when I was walking around myself. Truly great experience!

Hello, I'm Jim, a 34-year-old from the USA, specifically California. Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to volunteer for two weeks in Palestine as part of a program that focuses on assisting Palestinian refugees. My time there was truly remarkable. I had the privilege of interacting with Palestinians, particularly those residing in Hebron and Bethlehem.

During my volunteer stint, I dedicated myself to teaching English, with a focus on conversational skills. The experience was beyond words, as I found myself surrounded by enthusiastic and interactive students. Our visits to refugee camps allowed me to witness firsthand the challenging living conditions they endure. Engaging with the families, I had the chance to hear their personal stories and understand the historical context behind their presence in the camps.

As part of this program, I took the opportunity to learn Arabic from one of the finest teachers at the center. Starting from scratch, the teacher's clear and effective methods made the learning process enjoyable. Speaking with locals further enhanced my Arabic skills, contributing to a well-rounded experience.

Reflecting on my time in Palestine, I cannot recommend this program enough to anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the Palestinian culture and daily life. Particularly in light of recent events in Gaza, it is crucial to see the situation through their eyes. Living among Palestinians provides a unique perspective that goes beyond just witnessing, allowing for a genuine connection and appreciation of their experiences. I wholeheartedly encourage others to embark on this journey and immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Palestinian life.

At first, I didn't intentionally choose to come to Palestine. I thought it was a very dangerous place, but it's actually quite different from what I imagined. Not only is it very safe here, but the people are also very friendly. I even celebrated an unforgettable birthday here. The two weeks I've spent here have been very fulfilling. Through conversations with locals, I've gained a deeper understanding of the real situation in this country and the lives of the local people. I believe this experience will be of great help to me in both my personal life and work.

During my time at the centre I completed a six week programme which focused on law and human rights.
During my time here we have visited several different refugee camps and we have met with loads of amazing people from many different human rights organisations and many locals who have shared their experiences growing up in Palestine. It has been such an eye opening experience which I will never forget.
The atmosphere at the centre is also amazing, it really does feel like a family. I'm so grateful to everyone that I have met during my stay here.
On my days off I was able to explore other cities like Jerusalem, ramallah and Jerico. Which you can get to really easily from hebron.
I also have felt extremely safe during my whole time here and everyone you meet on the streets and in shops are so polite and welcoming.
I would absolutely recommend this center and the law and human rights internship.

During my month-long internship in Hebron, Palestine, about Law and Human Rights, I had an enriching experience that left a lasting impact. The opportunity to visit various human rights organizations, interact with activists, lawyers, and journalists provided me with a well-rounded perspective on the complexities of the region.

One of the standout aspects of the internship was the chance to study Arabic and immerse myself in the local culture. This allowed me to form meaningful connections with the locals. Learning about the conflict firsthand and hearing diverse viewpoints from individuals directly affected by it was eye-opening and invaluable to my understanding.

I must highlight the feeling of safety throughout my stay in Hebron, which was reassuring and allowed me to fully engage with the experience. Overall, I am immensely pleased with the knowledge I gained, the connections I established, and the insights I obtained into the field of law and human rights within this unique context.

I had a wonderful time in Palestine. The experience was amazing and the teachers are easy going and make sure you’re comfortable each step of the way.

The schedule is very easy work with. You get to the Centre for 10am and they provide you breakfast. Traditional Palestinian breakfast. Hummus with olive oil and zataar. Falafels are also provided. The English classes are helpful to the students as it gives them the opportunity to speak English. They may be uncomfortable at first but after the a few sessions, they become a lot more confident. When they get to know you, they even invite you over for dinner! As for the Arabic classes, the teachers are very friendly and polite and make it easy for you to learn the language. They go at a pace which you find comfortable. Any questions you have, they will answer.

Outside of the Centre, the people of the city are very kind and considerate. They invite you to talk with them as well as invite you to eat. They are also helpful with giving directions, asking questions as well as giving a history review of Hebron.

I say it is a must to come to Palestine and give the people the opportunity to learn. Everyone is fantastic and extremely considerate of you. You’ll definitely enjoy your time. I really want to come again and spend more time with families, making new friends as well as learning more about the culture.

Coming here was somewhat scary yet exciting. My fear came from all I saw and read in the media which was a mistake. From my journey here to now, the entire process has been relaxing and made me feel at ease. I felt safer here than I did in my home city. I learnt a lot about the Palestinian culture and even learnt to make Maqlouba, Rawaq Alainab (stuffed grape leaves) and Koshray (Egyptian dish). I will not be able to get hummus from Tesco in London after tasting the hummus here. The hummus in Palestine is very smooth and creamy. I am surprised that I went my entire stay here with healthy food consisting, black olives, eggs, cucumbers, tomatoes, labneh, hummus and bread. Palestinians are kind and welcoming in nature and they have a heart of gold. I have not experience this level of hospitality anywhere else. Growing up as a Muslim, it is eye opening to witness locations on the holy land such as Masjid Al Aqsa and Ibrahimi Mosque. I am the only one in my entire family generation to visit Al Aqsa mosque and I feel privilege to be able to do so. It is the third holiest site in Islam. The experience has reaffirmed me in my beliefs. This experience has changed me as a person. I am never going to be the same person again. I have become more empathetic and open minded and understanding towards Palestine, the cultural differences and its' people.

Thanks to this internship I was able to gain a first-hand experience in the field of Human Rights and I was able to learn a lot about the life in Palestine. If you want to discover Palestine, understand the ongoing conflict, learn about how regular people and organisations deal with different difficulties you should definitely come to volunteer with GoPalestine, because their offer is very interesting and the staff is super nice and helpful. The center is also very conveniently located, on the main street in the city center. The apartment I was staying at was not even 10 minutes away, which was also very convenient!

Everyone in this blessed place is so amazing. Throw away your worries and any uneasy feelings you may have, and come visit Palestine. The political climate is thick, and the weather is hot. But the people are amazing and will make you feel welcomed. Visitors are treated with respect and love. Everywhere you go you will be greeted with a “salaam” or a “welcome.”
I will visit this beautiful country again, as soon as possible. This is my home away from home. I have found my second family here, and I will miss everyone.

I had a great experience with Go Palestine. Everyone felt like a family taking care of each other. I got a chance to teach student which was very fulfilling. I had the opportunity to visit the Al-Ahli Hospital. It was great experience to learn about the Healthcare system of Hebron.

I love the culture and hospitality of the people in Hebron. Very helpful and kind. Being a girl alone, walking on the street felt very safe. I never encountered any bad situation. It's a very safe city for girls. I recommend everyone to come once in their lifetime.