Gazan Ninjas in the Midst of Destruction

Israa Elkhatib

8 years ago

From Parkour to horse-riding, we are seeing all types of inspirational and motivational stories in Gaza,Palestine and Middle East. This January, we are provided with a glimpse of real life Gazan ninjas. This group of young men and boys took to practicing martial arts upon the 2 year old destruction of their homes. Why give up when hope can be found in debris?

A Palestinian youth blows fire as he demonstrates his ninja-style skills for a photographer in front of the ruins of a building, that was destroyed in the 2014 war, in the northern Gaza Strip January 29, 2016. The youths, who have been receiving martial arts training at local clubs in Gaza for the past two years, decided to form a team to hold regular shows in the hope that the publicity generated will eventually lead to them being invited to participate in international contests. REUTERS/Mohammed Salem

After two years of practice from local clubs in Gaza, these Gazan ninjas have organized themselves into a team of 10, ages 6-24. Their team trainer, 21 yr old Ahmed Samour, gets them together 3 times a week to practice and perform shows that involve wielding swords and spitting fire to a backdrop of their ruined homes. In the photos, they pose for a chance at a more promising future. These boys hope to be recognized as talent worthy of participating in international contests.

A Palestinian youth jumps with a sword as he demonstrates his ninja-style skills for a photographer in front of the ruins of buildings, that were destroyed in the 2014 war, in the northern Gaza Strip January 29, 2016. REUTERS/Mohammed Salem

Their performances are a combination of Freestyle Nunchaku, street fighting, and swordplay skills. 16-year-old Mohammed Majed told Reuters that, “It’s tough training as we are highly exposed to injury”. However, this risk does not stop them and he says,“We like it because it strengthens our determination and enhances our personality.”

These young Gazans are an inspiration to all people suffering from war and destruction. Like phoenixes rising from the ashes, they have taken advantage of their time and put it into something physical, healthy and impressive. What will Gaza give us next?

Palestinian youths and boys demonstrate their ninja-style skills for a photographer in front of the ruins of buildings, that were destroyed in the 2014 war, in the northern Gaza Strip January 29, 2016. REUTERS/Mohammed Salem

Smile and share so these young boys get their chance to go international!