The name Ibda’a (إبداع) means “creativity” or “creating something out of nothing” — the very spirit that defines our identity.
Ibda’a organization is a grassroots, non-governmental organization based in Dheisheh Refugee Camp, located in Bethlehem, Palestine. Ibda’a was founded in 1994 by its original cofounders, Mr. Khaled Al-Saifi and Mr. Zeiad Abbas, but was officially recognized as a not-for-profit organization in April 2007 under Law Number 1 of Charitable Societies and Non-Governmental Associations (2000) by the Ministry of Interior of the Palestinian National Authority. Ibda’a holds license number BL-501-C. Additionally, it obtained license number 2015/100/B/318 from the Palestinian Ministry of Culture in July 2015.
Ibda’a works to empower Palestinian youth, women, and children by providing inclusive cultural, educ Read More…
A Palestinian society without violence grounded in the values of justice, democracy, and respect Read More…
Ibda’a is committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment where women, youth, Read More…
We provide educational activities and psychosocial support that help children learn, express themselves, build confidence, and grow in a safe and caring environment.
We value volunteers as active partners, encouraging them to share ideas, contribute their skills, and participate in planning and decision-making.
By working together with children, volunteers, and the local community, we promote inclusion, resilience, and sustainable positive change.
Our team is a living example of Ibdaa’s impact. They are the children who once grew up within the walls of our center, learned, volunteered, and believed in its mission.
Today, they have become community and institutional leaders, driving change, inspiring creativity, and empowering others—carrying forward the same vision that shaped their own journey at Ibdaa.
Nothing makes us prouder than the trust of our families, friends, and community. Their stories and words inspire us to continue creating meaningful opportunities and making a positive difference in the lives of children.
“Ibdaa created a revolution in my memory regarding the refugee camp where I spent my childhood. I am proud and happy, and Ibdaa’s children carry both the name and the hope through art to the stages of the world.”
“One of the happiest moments of my life was when I had the honor of hosting, from Tunisia, the ceremony of the Ibda’a basketball players — the champions of Palestine.”
” Ibdaa’s children, as they travel across the world, are the true ambassadors of Palestine.”
“Ibdaa is the finest representative of the Palestinian refugee communities around the world.”
“Ibdaa is an institution we are proud of, especially because it works to strengthen unity in all its forms. We wish it continued progress and success.”
“Ibdaa’s visit to us in America and their celebration with us on this day on Alcatraz Island reflected the depth of their suffering, which is similar to our own.”
