A Year of Creativity, Healing, and Hope at Dar al-Kalima University
When we look back on this year, it’s easy to first remember the hardships — the uncertainty, the longing for peace. But when we pause to truly reflect, what shines through are the remarkable accomplishments that have taken place through Bright Stars of Bethlehem’s steadfast support of Dar al-Kalima University.
Despite the immense challenges facing Palestinians today, Dar al-Kalima continues to be a place of light — a home for creativity, resilience, and innovation. Together with Bright Stars, the university has expanded programs, launched new initiatives, and empowered young Palestinians to shape a brighter, more self-sustaining future.
Empowering the Next Generation Through Innovation
In the heart of Palestine, the Rami Zahi Khouri Innovation and Entrepreneurship Hub for the creative students of Dar al-Kalima University is making waves as the first of its kind in the region. This innovative space is not just a physical location; it represents a movement — one that energizes the local community and inspires young Palestinians to imagine, create, and lead.
As entrepreneur and philanthropist Zahi Khouri shared during his visit to the new Rami Zahi Khouri Hospitality Education Center, young Palestinians have incredible potential when given the right tools and encouragement:
“Palestinians, especially young Palestinians, are too smart and the country is too small. Some with their great talents arehere being given the chance to monetize their knowledge, to earn their own living and eventually to employ people... It gives me great hope. It energizes me today.”
This new hub and hospitality center stand as beacons of opportunity — places where students can gain practical skills in hospitality, culinary arts, and entrepreneurship, equipping them to thrive in Palestine’s evolving economy.
Healing Through Art and Creativity
One of Dar al-Kalima’s most inspiring areas of growth this year has been in art and music therapy, offering tools for healing and emotional resilience.
“Art therapy comes as a tool to express the unexpressed,” explains Dr. Nawras Kurzom, professor at Dar al-Kalima. “It allows people with trauma to communicate their pain through art, music, and virtual reality, rather than words.”
This pioneering approach is helping students and community members address post-traumatic stress and depression in ways that are both personal and transformative.
Mishleen Marcos, Dar al-Kalima’s first master’s graduate in Art Therapy and now a professor herself, reflects on how creativity nurtures both expression and healing:
“During these difficult times, the university gives students a chance to express themselves, their character, and their personality — to be creative without boundaries.”
Revitalizing Bethlehem’s Cultural and Economic Life
Recognizing that art and culture are central to Palestine’s identity and economy, Dar al-Kalima also launched new initiatives in culinary tourism and cultural entrepreneurship.
“Tourism is vital to Bethlehem,” notes Professor Rose Kando. “About 70% of the economy depends on it. Through our culinary tourism program, we train students to develop tourism products that celebrate our culture — from farming to traditional cooking to hospitality.”
Students like Rayan, studying Culinary Arts, are discovering new skills and pride in their heritage:
“The new hospitality center gives me so many opportunities — from learning new recipes to identifying herbs by taste and smell. It’s been an amazing experience.”
A Vision for the Future
At its heart, Dar al-Kalima is shaping a new generation of cultural leaders — artists, designers, therapists, and entrepreneurs — who are not only preserving Palestinian identity but actively building its future.
“Young Palestinians can be vibrant shepherds in the art and culture fields,” says Professor Liza Muallem. “If given the support, we can see a future through this university.”
That support — through Bright Stars of Bethlehem — remains as vital as ever. As Zahi Khouri reflects:
“I’m proud and grateful for the work of Bright Stars of Bethlehem. There’s still some humanity left in humanity. Diamonds are made under pressure — and we have a mine of diamonds in this little country called Palestine.”
Bright Stars of Bethlehem continues to empower Dar al-Kalima University’s students and faculty — ensuring that creativity, healing, and hope continue to flourish, even in the most challenging times.
