Some visits leave a lasting impression not because of the speeches that are given, but because of the conversations they inspire.

When comedian, writer, and disability advocate Maysoon Zayid visited Art to Heart, she was welcomed by the students of the Bridges Program, where she introduced herself before joining them in a mosaic activity inspired by traditional Palestinian tatreez. As they worked side by side, conversations flowed naturally, and art became a shared language that needed no introduction.

Maysoon then explored our student artist corners, meeting the talented individuals behind each collection. From Zaid’s intricate zentangle drawings and Lamar’s expressive canvas paintings to Maysa’s vibrant glass artwork and Ragheb’s delicate watercolors, each artist shared a unique perspective through their work. Every piece reflected not only creativity, but confidence, dedication, and the opportunity to be recognized for ability rather than disability.

This is what Art to Heart strives to create every day.

As one of the few inclusive art and cultural organizations in Palestine dedicated to empowering people with disabilities, Art to Heart believes that art is far more than creative expression. It is a tool for confidence, communication, independence, and belonging. Through inclusive artistic and cultural programs, young people with disabilities discover their talents, build meaningful relationships, and claim their place as active contributors to their communities.

After spending time with the students, Maysoon asked to sit with the mothers of the Bridges Program.

Gathered together in a circle, five mothers shared their experiences of raising children with disabilities in Palestine. Their journeys were different—raising children with autism, Down syndrome, and deafness, but many of the challenges they described were deeply familiar. They spoke about the moment they first realized their children were developing differently, the social stigma they encountered, and the determination it took to advocate for their children in a society that often sees disability before it sees the person.

Maysoon listened, then shared a story of her own.

She spoke about her parents, who were once told that their daughter would never achieve much because of her disability. Yet with the unwavering support of her family and her own determination, she challenged those expectations and built a career as a comedian, writer, actress, and disability rights advocate. Her story resonated deeply with the mothers, reminding everyone in the room that potential should never be measured by other people’s assumptions.

One mother shared the story of her deaf daughter, who is now married and has a child of her own. Through tears, she spoke about the joy of watching her daughter become a mother, while carrying the heartbreaking reality that she cannot hear her own child’s voice. It was one of many moments that reflected both the challenges families face and the extraordinary resilience they carry every day.

Despite their different journeys, the mothers shared something else in common: gratitude for finding a place where their children are seen, celebrated, and allowed to thrive.

For many families, Art to Heart has become more than an organization. It is a community where young people with disabilities are encouraged to express themselves, develop their artistic talents, build confidence, and form meaningful connections. It is a place where families know they are not alone, and where inclusion is practiced every day through art, culture, and community.

Maysoon’s visit was more than a special occasion. It was a reminder that meaningful inclusion begins by listening—to artists, to families, and to the experiences that too often go unheard.

At Art to Heart, we remain committed to creating spaces where every person with a disability has the opportunity to create, belong, and be recognized for the unique talents they bring to our society.