When war broke out in Syria, Feyrouz’s life changed overnight. Her father, a senior officer in the Syrian army, made a difficult choice — to walk away from the conflict rather than contribute to the suffering of others.

“He loved his people and refused to be the cause of anyone’s death,” she says.

One by one, her family fled the city of Homs for Türkiye, leaving behind their home, friends, and everything familiar. Feyrouz was just 18.

At first, they thought it would be temporary. But as the war dragged on, she realised she needed to build a new future. After learning Turkish, Feyrouz enrolled at university in Antakya and earned her degree in physiotherapy — not because it was her dream, but because she saw the need.

“So many people were wounded, physically and mentally. I wanted to help them find their way back to life.”

After graduating, she worked in a women’s physical therapy centre, where she treated many cases of war-related injuries — including amputees and women with severe spinal cord damage.

“These were injuries that changed the course of their lives,” she recalls. “Many had lost the ability to perform even the simplest daily activities. I felt immense pride being able to help them regain strength and independence. Some were even able to break free from the wheelchairs that had become part of them. I learned so much on this journey.”

Today, Feyrouz works with Ummah Care Foundation in Şanlıurfa, focusing on children — those she calls “the most gentle and vulnerable.” Through physiotherapy and psychological support, she helps them regain strength, confidence, and joy.

“Smiling is hard for someone who’s been through trauma,” she says. “But when a child begins to smile again — that’s healing.”

Her work doesn’t stop with the children. UCF’s holistic approach means supporting families too, especially mothers who share in their children’s pain and recovery.

“When a mother sees her child improving, her own spirit lifts too,” Feyrouz explains.

For now, her mission is here in Türkiye — helping those who cannot yet return home. But one day, she dreams of going back to Syria to help rebuild her country.

“Until then,” she says, “I’ll keep helping the children who need us most.”