Artists of Hope: Supporting the Gaza Puppeteers
UNIMA International is currently launching an solidarity campaign
UPDATE 2/12/2025: UNIMA Artists of Hope – Screening Protocol & How to/ Request the Gaza Films
New meeting report outlines next/ steps, how to organise solidarity screenings, and how to directly support puppeteers in Gaza
British UNIMA is sharing the latest update from UNIMA International’s Artists of Hope campaign, following the coordination meeting on 7 November 2025. This summary highlights how members, national centres, and partner organisations can request access to the three Gaza films, organise solidarity screenings, and support the five puppeteer families currently receiving emergency aid.
This is not a British UNIMA-led programme, but we are committed to sharing essential information so that our UK networks can participate in global solidarity efforts.
In Gaza, a small group of puppeteers continues to create art among the ruins, keeping alive the hope and memory of their people. Today, these artists and their families urgently need our support to survive.
The cost of living in Gaza has become unbearable: feeding a family of five now costs around USD 50 per day; a week’s supply of firewood, USD 70; a single item of clothing, USD 50; a tent for shelter for five persons can reach USD 1,500 more USD 500 land rent per month. Moreover, due to the difficult transfer channels, only about 40 % of the funds raised effectively reach their destination, making every donation all the more precious.
UNIMA International is currently launching an solidarity campaign with two main objectives:
Direct financial support through crowdfunding launched by the families themselves or by trusted members of UNIMA International: (the veracity of these crowdfunding has been verified by our organization). Every contribution — even the smallest — is vital to meet their basic needs and to keep hope alive:
Mahdi Karira
Waseem Nasser Al-Hindi
Murad Al Maghari
Yousef Al Hindi
Bahaa Ghazi Al-Yazji
At a time when international artistic solidarity is more needed than ever, every action, every collaboration, and every donation matters.
Let us help these puppeteers and their loved ones continue to live, create, and hope.
With gratitude and hope,
UNIMA International
Sustaining Hope in Gaza Through Puppetry
While headlines focus on devastation, behind the scenes in Gaza, something quite extraordinary is happening: a troupe of artists is bringing stories, laughter, and healing to children displaced by war.
Last modified: 01-11-2024
Information for puppeteers needing help
If you are seeking assistance, please click on the blue tab labeled “Request Assistance” below, fill out the form, and contact your UNIMA National Center. You can also contact the Cooperation Commission at cooperation@unima.org. Your privacy is guaranteed, and the Cooperation Commission and UNIMA staff manage the distribution of assistance confidentially, with the utmost respect for your dignity. No financial contribution is required.