Awad Darawsha: A Life of Journalism, Art, and Social Activism
Translated & summarized from Panet by baba
Awad Darawsha, an 82-year-old Palestinian journalist from Arraba al-Batuf, is recognized for his lifelong dedication to journalism, social work, and art. Overcoming early financial and educational challenges, he became a prominent figure in his community, founding sports teams, participating in theater, and later pursuing journalism voluntarily. Darawsha continues his unpaid journalistic work, viewing it as a humanitarian responsibility and a testament to a life built on resilience and community engagement.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Awad Darawsha, 82, is celebrated for his extensive career in journalism, art, and social activism in Arraba al-Batuf.
- He overcame significant financial and educational obstacles to pursue his passions.
- Darawsha was instrumental in establishing theater and sports in his community.
- He transitioned to journalism in the 1990s, working voluntarily and later professionally.
- Darawsha also contributed to cinema, appearing in the international film "Of Kings and Prophets".
- He continues his journalistic work without compensation, emphasizing its humanitarian importance.
Awad Darawsha, an 82-year-old Palestinian journalist, is being honored for a life dedicated to journalism, social work, and art, marked by resilience and a commitment to his community. Born in Arraba al-Batuf on October 2, 1945, Darawsha grew up in a modest family. His father worked as a stonecutter, and despite financial hardships, instilled in him values of faith and perseverance. Darawsha excelled academically but was also drawn to social initiatives from a young age.
His pursuit of education faced financial obstacles, but his maternal grandfather and uncle helped cover his high school expenses in Nazareth. However, life's difficulties forced him to leave school early to work. Despite this, he remained politically and socially active, participating in May Day demonstrations and co-founding Arraba's first football team in 1966. In the 1970s, he combined his carpentry work with a passion for theater, helping to establish dramatic arts in Arraba even before electricity arrived, performing under makeshift lighting.
Darawsha married Nawal Darawsha in 1972, who has been a supportive partner in his endeavors. He managed a business until 2000, but his true calling emerged in the early 1990s when he began practicing journalism voluntarily. He officially became a journalist in 2002, working as a correspondent for Panorama newspaper. Despite not having a driver's license, he was known for his dedication and presence at events, documenting the history of Arraba's local authority and its football scene, publishing a book on the latter that was distributed for free.
His contributions extended to cinema, where he acted in the international film "Of Kings and Prophets" alongside prominent artists like Makram Khoury. He also supported student film projects. Even at 82, Darawsha continues his journalistic work without pay, viewing it as a humanitarian responsibility and expressing happiness in his life's journey, which he attributes to love and the affection of people. His life is presented as a testament to self-made achievement, leaving a lasting legacy in Arraba and the Palestinian community as a symbol of a dedicated journalist, artist, and community leader.