YW4A Stories of Leadership: Nermin Confronts Child Marriage in Hebron

Nermin Al-Tall is a 30-year-old woman from the town of Adh-Dhahiriya- Hebron.

Nermin Al-Tall is a 30-year-old woman from the town of Adh-Dhahiriya- Hebron.

“My path wasn’t traditional… I couldn’t complete my university education for many reasons. But I always had this feeling deep inside that I could make a difference in my community, if only I had the chance.”

That opportunity came in 2024, when she joined the YW4A initiative through the Youth for Tomorrow Youth Forum, where she had been active as a community volunteer and received various trainings. Her participation in the RiseUp! Leadership Training marked a turning point.

She reflects,

“It changed me. It gave me new skills and a deep sense of confidence—confidence in how to facilitate trainings and lead discussions, and more importantly, how to create a safe space, especially for women and young girls who want to raise their voices and be agents of change for gender justice.”

“I had always noticed how common child marriage was around us but no one said anything. Through the programme, I decided to act. I organised a gathering for the women in my town. I coordinated everything myself, even with grassroots organisations. It wasn’t easy but I was determined.

Photo: Young women particpating in training under YW4A in Palestine.

The event brought together more than 20 women.

“We spoke openly about child marriage and its devastating impact. At that moment, I wasn’t just a facilitator; I was a sister, a mother, and a friend. The women shared stories, cried, laughed, and opened their hearts. I felt the true value of everything I had learned.”

By the end of the session, they agreed to continue.

“We decided to form a support group, hold more awareness sessions, and work together to protect our girls. Today, I may not hold a university degree, but this programme gave me something even greater than a certificate. It gave me a deep, unwavering belief in my ability to lead and make change. The impact it left on me has been a profound and ongoing learning journey. Despite all the difficult circumstances, I’ve felt myself growing professionally and personally. I’ve gained self-confidence that has made me stronger and more capable of facing the many challenges ahead.”

Photo: Training session on early and child marriage in Palestine.
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