Throughout the year, our teams have remained active across multiple regions, responding to urgent needs while building long-term pathways toward dignity and justice. In this newsletter you can find an update per regio.

MEETING BASIC NEEDS

Gaza

Last Ramadan, a time meant for blessings—became a month of relentless suffering in Gaza. Instead of peace, families faced bombs. Instead of security, they faced endless displacement. A total aid blockade had turned survival into a daily battle.

Yet, even in the darkest times, our team on the ground risked everything to deliver 1000 vital iftar meals—bringing light to those in need and supporting the few hospitals still standing in northern Gaza.

Our partners on the ground in Gaza also built a water well in Misk & Layan Camp, a home to 600 vulnerable families in Al-Mawasi, Gaza. This was only possible thanks to your generous donations. The water well uses manual pumping and provides 250L of fresh water every 15 minutes, giving families the ability to shower and clean.

In November we launched the Digital Learning Lab, reaching 350 attendees and welcoming an average of 10–15 freelancers and students daily to a rare space of stability, learning, and connection amid prolonged crisis. Beyond providing a shared workspace, the Lab offers free peer-led courses and digital skills training, helping restore routine, confidence, and a sense of possibility for rebuilding lives and livelihoods. With your continued support, we can keep this space of hope open and expand it in the year ahead.

Sudan

Since the outbreak of war in April 2023, Sudan has faced one of the world’s largest displacement crises, with millions forced to flee their homes, particularly in North Darfur. Through our fully local team and our partner Let’s Have Hope (LHO), we continue to provide life-saving support to displaced families, including food assistance, women-led community kitchens, and essential relief for children and the elderly. In 2025, through months of sustained community kitchen operations, we have reached approximately 35,000 forcibly displaced people. Despite insecurity and severe access constraints, our work remains rooted in community leadership, dignity, and resilience. With your support, we aim to sustain and expand these efforts to reach even more families affected by the conflict across Sudan.

Athens

Last year, we established two 18+ housing facilities offering young adults aged 18–21 a safe and supportive environment to transition towards independent living. The program combines Greek language courses, assistance with securing the required Greek work documentation, guided access to the Greek labour market, and support in finding and renting their own small apartment, enabling residents to build autonomy and long-term stability.

To date, 74 participants have benefited from the program and successfully started their independent lives. In 2026, we aim to expand the project with two additional houses, creating a permanent capacity of approximately 60 places.

Lesvos

Building on the success of our Digital Livelihood Academy in Aley we  continued to offer a digital skills programs to underserved youth, preparing them for secure, remote job opportunities.

This year in Lesvos, we reached a major milestone by transforming our Ergon Community Center into a fully functioning vocational and integration hub. Since May 2025, more than 300 students have joined our courses. The center now delivers a wide range of programs, including Kitchen Assistant Training, Barista & Customer Service Training, Hotel Housekeeping Training, CV and Job Interview Preparation, and a socio-cultural integration program. These courses are open to both refugee and Greek communities living on the island, creating a shared space for learning, skills development, and social inclusion. Thank you for your continued support. Looking ahead to 2026, we hope to expand our capacity to welcome even more students and to further extend our training offer.

The inauguration of the field will take place in the presence of Susila Cruyff, daughter of the legendary Dutch footballer Johan Cruyff, globally known as “The Flying Dutchman”, representatives of the Cruyff Foundation, officials of the Municipality of Mytilene, as well as the owners of Status Café, who donated the land for the realization of the project.

The ceremony will be held on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at 4:30 PM at the field. The event will be open to the public, with a special focus on families with children, and refreshments will be offered to all guests during the celebration.

This Cruyff Court is the third to be built in Greece and is being offered to Greek society by Movement on the Ground in collaboration with the Johan Cruyff Foundation. Two others have been constructed in recent years, one on Lésvos and one on Samos. Movement on the Ground is an international organization active in 9 countries and 3 continents. It was founded in 2015 as a direct response to the refugee crisis on the Greek islands. MOTG has extensive experience in providing innovative solutions for housing, education, social support, and skills development, focusing both on meeting immediate needs and shaping long-term prospects for sustainable integration into Greek society. With the philosophy “Camp to CampUs”, which places active volunteerism at its core, MOTG seeks to create positive and sustainable change, supporting both immediate needs and the long-term empowerment of local Greek and refugee communities.

The Johan Cruyff Foundation was established in 1997 by Dutch footballer and coach Johan Cruyff, with the aim of giving children – especially children with disabilities – the opportunity to participate in sports and play. “It is our shared vision that, regardless of your background, religion or abilities, you have the right to play. This third Cruyff Court stands as a symbol of unity, solidarity, and inclusion for all people,” said Adil Izemrane, co-founder of Movement on the Ground.

But in the wake of this collapse Syria was left damaged and forgotten. People struggle to access food and water, medical supplies, and education, which is all compounded by the destruction of necessary infrastructure.

After 11 years of displacement, 28-year-old Ali returns to Syria not only with the wish to be reunited with family, but with his own mission: to rebuild a free society in his treasured homeland. For the last 6 years Ali has been leading different humanitarian projects for Movement on The Ground, an international non-profit organisation focused on creating dignified refugee reception in Europe and the MENA region.

In 2024, we continued to work toward creating lasting change, guided by our four key pillars: meeting basic needs, providing training and employment opportunities, fostering a sense of belonging, and scaling our impact. Across our initiatives, and as part of our pillars we focused on providing essential services, vocational and educational programs, and community-building efforts that enable the empowerment of individuals to take charge of their futures.

I) MEETING BASIC NEEDS

MOROCCO

In September 2023, when a devastating earthquake struck Morocco, we were quick to mobilize in support of affected communities, particularly in the remote villages hardest hit by the disaster. Our initial focus was on Search and Rescue operations, where we partnered with both national and international teams to locate survivors. In addition, we provided essential emergency relief, including distributing over 800 food packages to families in desperate need.

As 2024 unfolded, the focus shifted from immediate emergency relief to long-term recovery and resilience. We joined forces with the local NGO, Amis des Ecoles (ADE), to deliver sustainable solutions that would help communities rebuild and recover. Together, we delivered essential shelter, rebuilt critical infrastructure, and addressed urgent Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) needs across 49 villages affected by the earthquake, positively impacting the lives of over 14,700 individuals. Through these efforts, we  supported the resilience and recovery of Moroccan communities.

GAZA

In 2024, the conflict in Gaza intensified, leading to the displacement of approximately 1.9 million people, nearly 90% of the population. In response to this urgent need, we supported our dedicated partners on the ground with delivering two trucks filled with ‘dignity packs’ to individuals and families residing in shelters. These packs included essential hygiene products to support their well-being and preserve their dignity during this crisis.
Additionally, following a visit to our mission in Lesvos, Greece, we joined forces with the Arava Institute and Damour in their “Jumpstarting Hope for Gaza” initiative. Together, we are planning to launch an intervention initiative to address both short-term and long-term needs in Gaza in 2025.

GHANA

Late this year, our support was requested in Zaazi, Ghana, to address critical health, social, and environmental challenges through the installation of WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) facilities. The existing basic sanitation within the village posed serious risks, including environmental contamination of soil and water, heightened health risks from infections, and safety and dignity concerns—especially for women and girls.
In collaboration with Corps Africa and Relief Crew Foundation, and working closely with the local community, we successfully constructed 51 WASH facilities, benefitting 750 residents. Additionally, the initiative equipped community members with the tools and training necessary for the long-term maintenance and sustainability of the facilities.

II) TRAINING & EMPLOYMENT

LEBANON

Building on the success of our Digital Livelihood Academy in Aley we  continued to offer a digital skills programs to underserved youth, preparing them for secure, remote job opportunities.

In the first semester of 2024, 108 girls and boys from underprivileged communities participated in courses covering Coding, Web Development, and AI. During -2024, as the conflict in Lebanon escalated, the university hosting the courses was transformed into a shelter for Lebanese refugees. In response, we adapted the initiative into the Digital Education in Emergency (DEE) Program. Participants in the DEE program were mainly Lebanese refugees, of varying ages and levels of digital literacy, who sought not only shelter and education at the university but also a sense of normalcy within the chaos. 

The announcement of a ceasefire in late November 2024 led to successfully concluding the Digital Livelihood Program. 69 students were able to graduate with a 93% satisfaction rate.

In December 2024, we launched a new semester specifically targeting unemployed women aiming to enhance  job opportunities. The curriculum includes advanced courses in AI, Marketing, and Web Development, with the aim of helping participant’s job prospects to achieve financial independence.

ATHENS

In 2024, we addressed a critical gap in refugee support with the launch of the  18+ Shelter Project. Recognizing the challenges faced by unaccompanied minors transitioning into adulthood after leaving shelters, we introduced a safe, healing space for young refugee men aged 18-24. Through the Athens CampUs, we provided dignified housing, access to education, job training, and weekly sports programs aimed at fostering physical and mental well-being while building trust and community.

Operated in partnership with The Home Project and with the dedication of social workers and volunteers, this initiative allowed 27 residents to find shelter, while 77% of them secured employment and 90% enrolled in educational programs. This project enables the environment to empower participants to break the cycle of housing insecurity and focus on building their futures.

III) SENSE OF BELONGING

LESVOS

During  2024, we continued to implement the Camp to CampUs methodology, creating educational, social, and economic opportunities through community-led initiatives. This year, we expanded the  educational and vocational programs at the  Community Center “Ergon” and re-established a  presence inside the refugee camp.

In Ergon, we enhanced integration efforts for employability by offering Barista, Atelier, and Cooking workshops led by local Greek community members. We also created a dedicated safe space with exclusive programs for women. Inside the camp, we built 49 Refugee Housing Units, launched a Digital Learning Lab offering free online courses, opened a community chai point, and introduced digital skills classes for children.

Through these efforts, over 2,000 people participated in the programs, with 5,000 in total attendances across the  educational initiatives, helping to foster both personal and community growth.

Unaccompanied Minors  NL 

The Netherlands saw a significant increase in unaccompanied minors (children under the age of 18) seeking asylum in 2023, with over 5,400 applications, marking a 29% rise from the previous year.

In response to this urgent need, Movement On The Ground  continued operating  shelters managing six locations throughout the year. In total Movement On The Ground provided shelters to 65 unaccompanied minors and supported them beyond safe housing and educational assistance. The comprehensive support included helping children to integrate into Dutch society, manage their finances, build social networks, and participate in recreational activities such as  sports.

VI) SCALING OUR IMPACT

NETHERLANDS CAMP TO CAMPUS

Since 2022, Movement On The Ground have been implementing the  Camp to CampUs methodology in Dutch asylum reception centers  addressing the growing need for support for displaced people. The approach enables residents to empower themselves to take an active role in their environment by assuming many of the day-to-day responsibilities. In doing this, it fosters not only a sense of ownership and community but also belonging and purpose.

During 2024, the Camp to CampUs methodology continued to expand creating a replicable blueprint.  During this year Movement On The Ground  concluded two successful Camp to CampUs projects in partnership with COA (the Dutch Central Agency for Asylum Seekers): a two-year initiative in Budel and an eight-month program in Huis ter Heide. These projects offered a range of recreational and community-building activities, including gardening, painting, translation services, sewing, and children’s programs.

Building on these successes, a  a one-month pilot project in Almere Markerkant was launched in collaboration with the Red Cross. n. By implementing these tools and community led activities, we were able to encourage a motivated and engaged community, fostering resident ownership and care for a living environment.

 in total 878 community volunteers were engaged, representing 30 different nationalities, with an impressive 18,802 volunteer hours contributed—demonstrating the power of community-driven efforts in creating meaningful change.

Camp to CampUs Handbook

Additionally, this year we began developing the  Camp to CampUs Handbook, a comprehensive blueprint that outlines the principles and practices of the methodology. Designed to share knowledge with partners, the handbook represents a significant step toward expanding the application of this approach to other asylum reception centers and organizations.

Can you tell us who you are and share a bit about your journey to the Netherlands?

I am 17 years old, originally from Syria, and Kurdish. I arrived in the Netherlands in June 2022 when I was fifteen. I started my journey in Ter Apel, the registration center in the north, where I was by myself but surrounded by many other people. It was a bit scary because I didn’t know where I would end up—I didn’t know anything at all. I was also really tired after traveling for three months from Turkey.

Although I was born in Syria, I’ve lived most of my life in Turkey. My family moved there when I was six years old, so I barely have memories of Syria. My sister still lives there, another one lives in Germany, and my parents remain in Turkey. Life in Turkey wasn’t easy—there’s a lot of discrimination against Syrians.

After spending a month in Ter Apel, I moved to Amsterdam to live with Movement on the Ground. Life here is much better than in the camp, as there are only twelve boys living here. The mentors have the time and space to listen to all of us, which was very different from the camp, where there were hundreds of people, and the COA couldn’t manage to help everyone

What is your day-to-day experience like living in the house with the other residents? 

It is good to be living with Movement on the Ground. I like that the mentors help me prepare for my future, and the other boys living here are nice—it feels cosy in the house. The mentors support me a lot with important things, like handling letters and preparing for appointments with the municipality or Vluchtelingenwerk. Since I’m almost turning 18, some things will change, and their help makes it easier for me to get ready.

What kinds of activities or guidance have you received from your mentors, both recreational and supportive? Are there any that you particularly enjoy or find meaningful?

What brings me the most joy is doing activities together with the mentors and the other boys. Sometimes we play soccer or go away for a few nights for special activities. It’s really nice to spend time all together as a group. One of my favorite things is when we all eat together—it’s something we do twice a week, and I really enjoy those moments.

What are some goals or plans you have for the future that you would like to achieve?

My first goal is to finish school. Right now, I’m studying to become a service assistant, but this is just my entry year. It’s designed to help me learn a lot of Dutch and get familiar with studying here. After this, I’m considering pursuing a career in healthcare—or maybe something else, I’m not entirely sure yet. However, what I really, really hope to study in the future is social work. That’s a level 4 program in secondary vocational education, which can be a bit challenging, but I’m confident I’ll get there one day. I enjoy being around people and helping them, and social work feels like the perfect fit for me.

Alongside my studies, I’m doing an internship near Amsterdam in a beautiful old house. It’s a place where a lot of people come together, and I get to talk with them, which has been amazing for improving my Dutch. I enjoy speaking Dutch and practicing it, although it’s difficult. At home and at school, I speak a lot of Arabic because many of the people around me also speak Arabic. It’s the same at work—most of my colleagues are from Syria, Eritrea, or other Arabic-speaking countries.

If all goes well, one of my goals for 2025 is to get my driver’s license. It’s something I’m really looking forward to achieving!

*A fictive name was used to preserve his identity

For those unfamiliar with the role, can you explain what it means to be a mentor for unaccompanied minors, and what your main responsibilities are?

{RADYA} A mentor for unaccompanied minors provides guidance to children and young people who have come to the Netherlands without parents or guardians. The main responsibility of a mentor is to support them in their integration, personal development, and in navigating their new surroundings and culture. Mentors offer a listening ear, help with practical matters, and above all, provide a sense of stability and security. The goal is to give these young people a trusted person who helps them feel confident and safe in their new environment.

Can you walk us through a typical day in your role? What activities or interactions do you have with the minors?

{TESSA} A typical day in my role starts around 9:30 a.m., when I greet my colleague finishing their night shift. I begin by catching up on recent updates and checking our calendar; for example, if a boy has an appointment with his guardian, I’ll send him a reminder. Fridays are often more relaxed since many of the boys are home from school, creating a cozy atmosphere. Around 11:00, some of them stop by for coffee or tea, and we’ll chat. I also handle calls, such as handling calls or resolving issues with the municipality, health care or public transport services.

Afternoons are often spent outdoors if the weather is nice—soccer games are a favorite. Throughout the day, I always make sure to have small interactions and longer conversations if the boys need to talk. As mentors, we each have our own designated children with whom we engage in special activities, like going to the movies or visiting the zoo. Group activities are also a highlight, including soccer matches, boat trips, and even an annual mini-holiday—this year, we explored Groningen together!

What inspired you to pursue this field and work with unaccompanied minors?

{TESSA} I’ve always been passionate about working with people—I’m naturally curious and genuinely interested in others. For years, I worked in a bar and restaurant, which I loved, but I felt something was missing. I wanted to make a meaningful impact on society and support vulnerable communities. Working with unaccompanied minors, who are primarily boys, has been deeply fulfilling. This group is often overlooked or judged harshly by society, despite the immense challenges they’ve faced, fleeing their countries at such a young age—many no older than 13. It’s incredibly rewarding to offer them support, kindness, and guidance, and to build genuine connections with them every day.  

What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in this role, and how do you navigate them? Can you also share a success story that has left an impact on you?

{RADYA} One of the biggest challenges in this role is witnessing the deep trauma many of these young people carry. It’s heartbreaking to see them struggle with fear, sadness, or anxiety, often stemming from their past experiences. My approach is to offer a stable, reliable presence and to connect them with professional support whenever needed. Another challenge is the language barrier, which can make communication difficult at times. But with patience, creativity, and mutual determination, we usually find ways to understand each other and build meaningful connections.

A success story that has truly touched me is about a young person who was extremely withdrawn when we first met. He felt unsafe, spoke very little, and was illiterate—unable to read or write. Initially, he kept his distance and was hesitant to engage with others. Over time, by simply being present, listening patiently, and gradually earning his trust, I saw a transformation. He began opening up, and actively taking part in group activities. With our support, he was able to enroll in school and start learning from the basics. Seeing him and his self-confidence grow is one of the most rewarding moments of my work. It’s a reminder of how powerful mentorship and compassion can be. 

Why do you believe the support and mentorship of unaccompanied minors are so crucial, and what long-term impact do you hope to see from your work with them?

{RADYA and TESSA} Mentorship is vital for unaccompanied minors because they often feel isolated and face countless uncertainties. These children deserve love, safety, and a place where they can truly be themselves. While they may not fully recognize it now, I believe that in a few years, they will reflect on their time with Movement on the Ground as a period of stability and support. This sense of stability is largely created by our diverse team of mentors.

Some of our mentors were born in Syria and play a nurturing “dad role” for the boys, speaking to them in Arabic and offering a comforting sense of familiarity. Others act as aunts, older siblings, or friends, creating a warm, family-like atmosphere. A mentor serves as a role model, guiding these young people through life’s choices and helping them navigate an unfamiliar society. My hope is that, over time, they feel understood and supported, and that this experience empowers them with the strength and resilience to make a positive impact on the world.

Introducing the Athens CampUs: Safe and Healing Homes for Young Refugees Starting Their Life in Greece

MOTG is delighted to announce the start of a new project in Athens: safe and healing homes for young refugees turning 18 and starting their life in Greece.

For the past 4 years, Movement on the Ground, supported by the Dutch Government, has sponsored shelters for unaccompanied refugee children in Athens.

The shelters provided over 250 refugee children without parents with vital care and support, so they could begin their life in Greece, safe from the traumas and challenges of their past.

Along this journey, we have been overwhelmed by the level of professionalism and dedication of staff working with these children. However, we have also been distressed by the lack of support for young adults turning 18. This is a critical age for young people trying to start their lives far from home, without family around them— the moment when the path between success and failure can be permanently set.

Too often, we see the tragic impact of children who benefitted from excellent care in shelters, only to fall into homelessness upon turning 18. Many are forced to accept low-paid and exploitative work to pay for a room in overcrowded and substandard apartments. Some are left with nowhere to sleep but a park bench. In the worst cases, young people with so much potential turn to drugs, crime, or gang activities to secure enough money to eat or a place to sleep.

These are disastrous conditions for anyone trying to build a life in a new country—particularly those just emerging from childhood. This negative cycle makes continuing education, seeking out training, finding a good job, and becoming part of society virtually impossible.

As an NGO committed to supporting those in need wherever we see them, we were compelled to act. Utilizing years of experience from the Greek island camps, such as Moria on Lesvos, and from shelters in Athens and the Netherlands, we launched a residential program in Athens specifically targeted at 18-year-olds who find themselves homeless, without hope or direction.

To fill this gap, we embarked on this new project at the end of April 2024. We invested in restoring a historic Greek property in the heart of Athens. This Athens CampUs provides a safe and secure place for young people to stay, temporarily removing the housing insecurity that often leads to a negative spiral. But the CampUs is much more than just a bedroom. It offers enriching education and training programs, qualified staff to help residents access the services they need, and—most importantly—high expectations.

Every participant is expected to work around the house and actively participate in activities, classes, meetings, and job-seeking. Following the MOTG philosophy, residents are treated as agents with responsibility, not victims to simply be looked after. We organize activities such as sports and street cleaning together with the local community to help these young residents improve their local networks. And we encourage each participant to set ambitious personal goals, from education to career, savings, and personal finance—putting them on the path to independence.

Our Athens CampUs is a lifeline to 18-year-olds with nowhere to go after years of living in sheltered accommodation and a bridge to a fulfilling career, supportive community, and a brighter future in Greece.

Can you share a bit about your journey in the nonprofit sector and what drew you to humanitarian work?

I studied International Business at Maastricht University and spent a year in Colombia, studying Spanish and doing a traineeship at Unilever. That experience made me question my path and wonder if I was meant for something more impactful.

A few years later, I had an opportunity at TNT, where I volunteered with the World Food Program in Malawi. It felt like a calling, affirming my desire to work in the nonprofit sector. Soon after, I joined the Netherlands Red Cross, where I spent nine years managing development programs, coordinating disaster responses, and working across multiple partnerships. This period was transformative, and I built many connections that I still value today.

After that, I was drawn to a CEO role at Amref Flying Doctors. I spent nine years there—seven leading the Dutch office and two on the Global Leadership Team in Kenya. I learned about leading an organization, fostering growth, and navigating crises like COVID-19. I also came to believe that real change happens from within communities.

Then, after a sabbatical, I was approached by Movement on the Ground. The mission, vision, and values resonated deeply, and I felt a strong connection with the Founders and Board. I feel bring knowledge, experience and network that the organization will benefit from. And I know that I will also be learning a lot again. A perfect match. 

With nearly 20 years of experience in leading diverse teams across organizations like The Red Cross and Amref Health Africa, what key lessons have you learned that you plan to bring to Movement on the Ground?

Having a strategy and plan is great, but having the right team is much more important. A great team will deliver any strategy or plan. This is why I tend to focus a lot on the people side of our work. When people are doing well, when they know how they can contribute, and when they know what their contribution means, they will flourish. And so will the organization.

Focus is also a keyword for me. Without focus, there is a risk of mission drift. It is easy to drift away from what you are set out to do. It is not easy to go back to the core of your work. So I believe that we need to always ask ourselves, why do we do this? Are we still on the right track? Are we spending our resources wisely?

Trusting your instincts, staying true to yourself, and creating space for dialogue—even dissent—strengthens both strategy and company culture. I believe in finishing what we start; as leaders, we must set that example.

An African proverb resonates with me: ‘If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.’ This reflects the Ubuntu philosophy: ‘I am because we are.’ Humanity is at the core of our work, and we achieve more together. We live on this planet together and we have the same rights and the same desires. For me, it’s always about the collective ‘eco’ over the individual ‘ego’.

How do you see your past challenges or success stories influencing your leadership style at Movement on the Ground?

My past challenges and successes have shaped my leadership style. I’ve learned from my mistakes, and with each success, I’ve gained confidence and certainty. Many of the situations I face now are familiar, which allows me to approach them with both experience and a sense of calm. Yet, I stay curious and open, and I am always eager to learn more. I believe this balance gives me inner peace, and people often tell me they sense my positive energy and want to be part of what I do.

I lead from the heart, which is something people will see right away. I care deeply about my team and believe in a collaborative approach. I see myself as a central defender, like in field hockey—leading from the back, with a strong view of the field, guiding the team forward, and clearing obstacles. I may not always score, but I set others up to succeed by creating space and removing barriers. My goal is to give my all, so others can achieve theirs.

What specifically about Movement on the Ground and our “Camp to CampUs” methodology inspired you to join our organization as CEO?

I was initially drawn to Movement on the Ground because of the urgency of its mission. With over 270 million people forcibly displaced globally, this is one of the most pressing crises of our time. As a humanitarian, I feel a deep need to make a difference in these lives.

Movement on the Ground’s young, dynamic nature also appealed to me. We have a small team with big ambitions, and over the organization’s first nine years, remarkable achievements have been made. I’m excited to build on these successes, reach our untapped potential and work closely with the Founders, whose energy and passion are truly inspiring.

The Camp to CampUs methodology is especially meaningful to me. It enables displaced people to participate in managing their environment and CampUs and provides a sense of belonging—crucial for those who have lost so much.

In your opinion, what are the most pressing challenges facing displaced people and vulnerable communities today, and how do you believe MOTG can address these challenges effectively?

The challenges facing displaced people are profound. They’ve often lost their homes, loved ones, and any sense of security, living with deep trauma, anxiety, and a lack of future prospects. While providing essential resources like shelter, clean water, food, and clothing is critical, it’s equally important to address their need for community, belonging, and hope.

Movement on the Ground stands out by prioritizing the human connection. Our approach transforms the way camps traditionally operate, creating environments where individuals are valued as people, not just as refugees. Many displaced people in our CampUs have become volunteers, and some have even joined our staff. These stories highlight how individuals can regain control, feel uplifted, and become active contributors to the communities they now call home. 

Given Adil’s previous role and involvement as one of the founders, how do you envision your partnership with him evolving?

The first time we met, Adil and I shared an inspiring two-hour conversation that set the tone for our partnership. From that moment, we both felt we were starting a journey together.

Though we approach things differently, there’s a deep, almost invisible thread that connects us, and our differences make us highly complementary. Respect and trust will be essential as we build and nurture our partnership.

I deeply admire Adil’s courage in entrusting me with the CEO role. For a founder, stepping back is incredibly difficult, especially from something so personally meaningful and carefully built. Letting go takes immense trust, and I’m honored that he is giving me his. Adil remains integral to our organization; he breathes the mission and is an inspiration for much of our team.

As we move forward, Adil will lead our advocacy efforts, work on much needed policy change, conduct on-the-ground assessments, and open new doors. I will focus on leading the organization, making sure we all work together as a well oiled machine. 

Looking ahead, what is your vision for Movement on the Ground in terms of scope and impact over the next few years?

We are ready to step up, and scale our Camp to CampUs methodology. To do this, we seek to strengthen and expand current partnerships and engage in new ones. These include partnerships with other nonprofit organizations, government agencies, humanitarian actors, universities, companies and individuals. We continue to grow our network of support.

We started our movement in Greece, on the island of Lesvos. We are still needed there but have in the meantime engaged in quite a number of other projects and countries such as Lebanon, Syria, Morocco, Poland and the Netherlands. We will continue to go where we are needed, driving our mission forward. 

3rd October 2015, we still remember as if it was yesterday. Moved by the picture of 2 year old Alan Kurdi who washed ashore a month before, we went to stand with the local Greek community on Lesvos helping the hundreds of thousands seeking safety from regional conflict and war. It was the start of our story!

With start-up resources spread thin, we were forced to act creatively and sought support from the refugee community within the camps. At the time, this defied and challenged the status quo in the humanitarian field but we persisted. From the beginning it has been a steep learning curve of human experiences and eye-opening events. Over the years we’ve harnassed these life lessons into best practises and created our “Camp to CampUs” methodology. A force for good, that breaks down systemic barriers and enables self-empowerment in a resources efficient way to those who seek to rebuild their lives.

Over the last nine years we have seen the number of forcibly displaced people globally increase from 65 million to a staggering 120 million today, of whom close to 50 million are children. Astonishing numbers that have been our daily drive to expand our missions as a grassroots NGO to where the needs were most.

Now implemented in 9 countries, spread over 3 continents, impacting 250.000+ displaced people and local community members, with a strong focus on vulnerable families, orphans and unaccompanied minors, we are beyond grateful for everyone who was and is part of the MOTG journey.

We stay committed to our “ground up” approach, and in light of what is happening around us today, with International (humanitarian) laws being violated, advocacy efforts, cross-border resolutions, peace-building round tables and refugee-led initiatives, are more than ever needed.

A loud call from the International community we will be amplifying.

Today as we renew our nine-year-old pledge, we also unveil our new logo doing honor to our founding story, visualizing our identity and our new path of advocacy towards an inclusive, safer and more humane global society.

The past seven years have been a rollercoaster of defining moments and crossroads for Movement On The Ground, and we are grateful for all of them. Today, we are challenged again in our ability to push the “Camp to CampUs” mission forward on the Greek Islands.

Today, we are challenged again in our ability to push the “Camp to CampUs” mission forward on the Greek Islands. Alongside other NGOs, our staff has been denied access to Lesvos and Samos camps pending new administrative regulations impacting our Greek NGO registration process.

Last week, the teams on the ground worked hard to safeguard a smooth transition of our ongoing programs and activities on Lesvos and Samos during our temporary absence. We are thankful for the cooperation with partner NGOs and with RIC management for the constructive dialogue in this matter.

But above all else, we are thankful to our resident community volunteers who continue to run daily programmes in the camp, standing up to the challenge of self-management. 

While we remain connected with the resident population inside the reception centres, we see this as a moment of proof for our “camp to campUs” model, where activities can operate without our physical presence – a durable situation we have always worked towards. 

We believe that, together with our community volunteers, we will come out of this situation wiser and stronger. 

Finally, we would like to express our sincere gratitude for the support we have received from our followers during this time. We will keep you updated in case of developments.

Sincerely, 

Movement on the Ground