Ahmad & Jana were born and raised in Lebanon to Palestinian families. When they were both offered jobs in the UK with a private healthcare provider (as a nurse and talent acquisition specialist) they decided to take a leap of faith, leaving everything they’ve always known to start a new life.

The decision to migrate from Lebanon was not an easy one but a necessary one. As third generation Palestinian refugees, Ahmad and Jana did not have access to the same rights as Lebanese citizens which had a monumental effect on their daily lives. Additionally, the economic situation in Lebanon was so dire that many couples were unable to get married due to associated costs. The opportunity provided to them via TBB and their employer not only gave them the ability to build their careers but also begin their life as a married couple.

“you do not have rights as others, you are always seen as a refugee, you cannot have goals and attain them”

In Lebanon, Ahmad was recognised for his outstanding work and had won multiple symbolic awards but never officially compensated or promoted, simply because he was Palestinian. Within six months of Ahmad’s arrival in the UK, he had been awarded two promotions and is currently being sponsored by his employer to complete a master’s degree.

“You always need to prove yourself back there because you don't have the rights. It's hard to leave everything and start from scratch here, but at least you are recognised.”

Since arriving in 2021, they have both been active members of the TBB alumni community and go above and beyond to help others navigate life in the UK. Together they have forged their own path out of displacement despite many obstacles and are passionate about advocating for and empowering their community. Jana has recently joined Talent Beyond Boundaries as full time personnel, a professional role that aligns with her personal values and advocacy endeavours.

They cooked Kousa bil laben, a dish close to Jana’s heart as it is a favourite. It is essentially meat filled zucchini in a yoghurt sauce served with rice. It is hearty and delicious with sweet and sour flavours and different textures, it’s easy to see why it is a family favourite.

Ahmad, with invaluable guidance and instruction from his aunt, cooks this dish as a labour of love for his wife. The couple share how their families feel at ease knowing that they have access to the ingredients they need to cook their traditional foods. They share how food places a vital role in helping them create a sense of home and belonging in a new place.

“I've relocated and left my family behind but to feel more normal I want to do the things I did at home, buy the same groceries, eat the same food. Living next to a Lebanese community has helped me to feel a sense of belonging here.”

This dish is also special as the way they make it is very specifically Palestinian. It is more than an ode to home, the place they grew up, but it is an ode to their cultural identity and Palestinian heritage.

“Now we are on our own, we cook like our families did, it's an extension of home and a powerful way to feel connected.”