Dr. Bahzad is due to begin a fully funded PhD at the Humanitarianism and Conflict Response Institute, University of Manchester in September 2025. His research will focus on societal trauma and resilience in the context of warfare.
”I am a medical doctor and mental health professional contributing to the design of an international initiative addressing the mental health needs of Gaza’s youth during the ongoing crisis.
”Back in February 2024, my house was completely destroyed and ever since then, me and my family have been living in tents. The relentless bombing and military operations are not the only challenges I am facing — me and my family are struggling with a lack of internet connectivity, lack of electricity and starvation.
”I hope to use this PhD along with my experiences to rehabilitate our Gazan children — traumatised by years of crisis.
”However, all will become futile if I’m unable to leave Gaza and take my place so I’m calling you to please support me and the others — our futures are in your hands.”