Writer | Journalist | Educator

Shahd Safi

Palestinian voice from Gaza. Through storytelling, teaching, and advocacy, bringing lived perspective to conversations on human rights and resistance.

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10+ Years Experience
30+ Major Publications
100+ Students Taught
Shahd Safi
About

The Story Behind the Voice

I am a Palestinian writer, journalist, and Arabic language educator from Gaza. My work speaks to international audiences with urgency and care.

Since 2019, my writing has been published in leading outlets including the Los Angeles Times, Carnegie Endowment, Middle East Eye, Washington Report on Middle East Affairs, Le Monde, Electronic Intifada, and Mondoweiss. I offer grounded, lived perspectives on Palestine and the broader Middle East.

Beyond journalism, I am the creator of AL HIVE Network, an innovative Arabic-as-a-Second-Language curriculum that clients praise for its interactive, engaging, and community-centered approach.

My work is deeply rooted in civic engagement and community development. I have served as a Volunteer Corps Coordinator at Bard College's Center for Civic Engagement, conducted research at the Center for Indigenous Studies, and contributed as a freelance writer to the Palestine Heirloom Seeds Library.

In 2024, after surviving the genocide in Gaza, I was invited by the Carter Center Human Rights Program to represent Gaza at the 13th Human Rights Defenders Forum. Since then, I have continued to represent Gaza at major international conferences addressing imperialism, colonization, and human rights.

Published In

Los Angeles Times, Carnegie Endowment, Middle East Eye, Le Monde, Washington Report on Middle East Affairs, Electronic Intifada, Mondoweiss, Journal of Palestine Studies, and more

Recognition

Carter Center Human Rights Defender, Bard College, University Speaker, International Forums

Background

Experience & Education

From Gaza to international platforms—a journey through education, journalism, advocacy, and cultural preservation.

Education

  • Bard College — B.A. Human Rights & Written Arts (Expected 2027)
  • Erasmus+ Program — Universidad de Jaén, Spain
  • Al-Aqsa University, Gaza — English Language & Literature

Published In

  • Los Angeles Times
  • Carnegie Endowment
  • Middle East Eye
  • Washington Report on Middle East Affairs
  • Electronic Intifada

Speaking & Advocacy

  • Carter Center Human Rights Defenders Forum (2024)
  • University of São Paulo Seminars (2024)
  • UNRWA USA Advocacy Days, DC (2025)
  • Guest speaker at Yale, Georgetown, Columbia, Brown

Teaching & Research

  • Arabic Tutor — NaTakallam
  • Teacher of Arabic — Bard College Learning Commons
  • Research Intern — Center for Indigenous Studies, Bard

Affiliations

  • Carter Center Human Rights Program
  • We Are Not Numbers
  • NaTakallam
  • Palestine Heirloom Seeds Library
View Full CV (PDF) → International Engagement →
Memoir

Coming Soon

📖

A deeply personal memoir is in development—stories of Gaza, of family, of displacement, and of the enduring human spirit. Check back for updates on this upcoming project.

Get Notified →
Testimonials

What Clients Say

"I've been enjoying my Levantine Arabic studies immensely. Shahd is a very patient and supportive teacher who makes learning Arabic approachable even for a beginner like me!"

— Jamie Cook

"Shahd is a superb translator as well as an excellent instructor. She makes every lesson engaging and meaningful."

— Rachel Aicher

"Committed and patient instructor who truly cares about her students' progress. Every session is thoughtfully prepared."

— Elly Page

"Shahd is creative with a rich literature background. Her teaching style is unique and culturally immersive."

— Elif Yarabas

"Committed, responsive, and reliable. Shahd goes above and beyond to ensure clients succeed in their language journey."

— Sally Wehbi

"Creative teaching methods combined with deep knowledge of Palestinian culture. Every lesson is an enriching experience."

— Remy Muegge