FUJAIRAH, UAE (Feb. 13, 2025) - In the heart of adversity, where dreams often seem out of reach, one young girl defied all odds. Ilham Al-Sheikh, an 11-year-old Syrian refugee, rose from the confines of Za'atari refugee camp (Jordan) to stand victorious on an international stage. Her gold medal at the 2025 Fujairah Open edition was not just a win; it was a testament to perseverance, resilience, and the unyielding power of hope.
A Journey Fraught with Challenges
The road to Fujairah was anything but smooth. The Jordan Refugee Team, composed of four young athletes from THF academies in Za'atari and Azraq refugee camps, faced a series of daunting obstacles from the very beginning. With the support of Mr. Maher Magableh (WT Concil Member & THF Trustee) and Mr. Hazem Al-Naimat, they managed to overcome every challenge and finally arrived at the competition venue. However, by the time they got there, little training time remained.
Turning Obstacles into Strength
With relentless determination, Ilham fought through the rounds. In the semifinals, she won two consecutive rounds against a formidable opponent from Fujairah Club, UAE. In the finals, she secured her place in history with another victory, defeating a competitor from Sharjah Club, UAE, and claiming the gold medal.
Fujairah Open: A Prestigious Stage
The Fujairah Open is one of the most anticipated international taekwondo events, drawing elite competitors from across the globe. The 2025 event was a melting pot of talent, featuring world-class competitors alongside rising stars, all vying for the top spot. For Ilham, it was more than just a tournament—it was the opportunity to prove that resilience and determination can break barriers.
Ahmad Okidat, the technical director of the Jordan Refugee Team, highlighted the significance of the event for Ilham and her fellow refugee athletes. He noted that their participation was not merely about competition but about representing their journey and the struggle of thousands of young refugees who aspire to achieve greatness despite their circumstances.
More Than Just a Medal
As Ilham stood on the podium, the gold medal shimmering in her hands, it symbolized far more than a championship victory. It was proof that no obstacle is too great for those who refuse to give up. It was a message to every child facing hardship, every refugee daring to dream, and everyone who believes in the power of perseverance.
Her triumph was also a testament to the dedication of her coach, Ahmad Okidat, and the support of the Taekwondo Humanitarian Foundation (THF). Under structured training programs, Ilham and her teammates transformed from aspiring athletes into fierce competitors ready to take on the world.
World Taekwondo President and THF Chairman, Dr. Chungwon Choue, commented on Ilham's achievement, stating: "Ilham’s victory is a remarkable example of the power of perseverance and the unbreakable spirit of young athletes. Despite facing numerous challenges, she never gave up on her dream, and today, she stands as a champion. I sincerely hope that she continues to pursue her dreams with the same passion and determination, inspiring many others along the way."
Dreaming Beyond Fujairah
With a gold medal around her neck, Ilham’s dreams have only grown. Now, she sets her sights on global championships, with the ultimate goal of reaching the Olympics and raising the Syrian flag high.
“I want to prove that refugees are capable of achieving their dreams despite everything. This is just the beginning.”
Her story is more than a victory—it is a beacon of hope, a reminder that ambition knows no limits, and that with perseverance, even the most impossible journeys can lead to triumph.
