Jumana Abdel Aziz, Media and Communications Manager, expresses thoughts on the leadership transition as a part of Ahel’s 2024 Journey

At Ahel, we have a tradition we hold dear— our “Gathering in the Garden” under the olive tree. It’s our way of stepping away from work to take a break together, especially when the week feels overwhelming, when there’s exciting news to share, or when something shifts in the world around us that we need to process as a team. And sometimes, we meet just to exchange stories, share laughter, and enjoy a cup of coffee.

On April 3, 2024, we had a gathering in the garden like no other. That afternoon, our then-Executive Director, Nisreen, sent a message in Ahel’s group chat:

“Come join me—this will be my last time under the olive tree!”

Of course, we all knew this day was coming. It had been in the works for a long time, and as a team, we had been preparing for it for months. That day marked a new chapter for Ahel, as leadership transitioned from Nisreen Haj Ahmad—who had co-founded and led the organization since its inception—to our colleague Reem Manaa, who, at the time, was the Director of Campaigns and a key partner in shaping and growing Ahel for over a decade. She had been an integral part of our leadership team, deeply committed to our mission and the work we do.

It wasn’t a surprise. We knew why and how this decision was made. Nisreen had always been clear about practicing what we preach—that leadership is a shared, participatory process, not an individual position. This wasn’t just an administrative transition or a personal decision; it was a reflection of one of Ahel’s core values—leadership is not about holding onto power, but about passing it on and nurturing new generations of leaders. It is about building collective strength, ensuring sustainability, and moving forward with renewed energy.

I have to admit—a small part of me feels a twinge of envy for the team that will get to work with Nisreen in her next chapter. But from the very first day of Reem stepping into leadership, the excitement was undeniable. Her passion for organizing, her infectious energy, and her deep belief in people power gave all of us a sense of confidence and clarity for the road ahead. This transition sent a strong message to all of us at Ahel: growth and leadership are not limited to specific roles. Ahel is a space that fosters development, opens doors for leadership, and encourages people to step into new roles—whether by taking on new responsibilities or by expanding our own vision of what leadership means.

And 2024 certainly challenged us in ways that reaffirmed this. The realities of the tough context we work in, the difficult decisions we had to make, the urgency of responding to crises, and the need for adaptability, creativity, and resilience pushed us all. But what kept us grounded was the shared responsibility we all hold—the belief that our work at Ahel is about supporting others in building their power. Knowing that we carry this responsibility together, that each of us plays a role in leading this organization, created real opportunities for professional and personal growth—not just for me, but for my colleagues as well.

That afternoon in the garden, after finishing our coffee, we made a choice. We chose not to dwell on goodbyes, not to be sad. Instead, we decided to celebrate Nisreen, to honor this transition as a “graduation” rather than a departure. We knew—without a doubt—that wherever she goes next, she will thrive. She has given Ahel not just a part of her leadership, but a part of her vision—a vision rooted in the belief that people power creates real change.

With Reem’s inspiring leadership, Ahel’s passionate team, our community of organizers, a deeply valued advisory board, and the unwavering support of our friends and partners, Ahel remains committed to its mission. We continue forward, rooted in our belief in people power, building toward stronger and more just communities across the Arab world.