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The fifth edition of the TIME100 Next list that celebrates emerging leaders and influential figures with zero age restrictions, those reshaping the future of politics, activism, and science, is out and it has some notable mentions — Palestinian food blogger Hamada Shaqoura, and peace advocates Alon-Lee Green and Rula Daood. Pakistan’s Dr Mahrang Baloch has been mentioned on the list as well.

All three have used their platforms to advocate for peace in Palestine and have emerged as voices of resistance amidst Israel’s war on Gaza, which has now extended to Lebanon. Their stories highlight the on-ground realities of Israel’s invasion, as well as the solidarity and hope that endures in the face of overwhelming adversity.

Hamada Shaqoura — wartime food blogger spotlighting resilience of Palestinians

Shaqoura, a 33-year-old marketing professional was forced to abandon his career as Gaza’s once-thriving markets crumbled under the weight of destruction and displacement caused by Israel’s relentless bombing. Now, he has found a new platform as a wartime food blogger, spotlighting the resilience of the people around him.

Shaqoura’s videos, shared widely across social media, document his efforts to cook and distribute meals to children in Gaza’s refugee camps, using the limited ingredients brought in through humanitarian aid. With a stern expression signalling his disapproval of the dire conditions in Gaza, Shaqoura shows the stark contrast between the joy of the children receiving his meals and the ever-present risk of famine in the region.

UNICEF reported this summer that 90 per cent of Gaza’s children suffer from severe food poverty, putting their growth and health at risk. For Shaqoura, this work has become his mission. “I took it upon myself to make delicious and clean food for the children of the tents,” he was quoted by TIME as saying.

Alon-Lee Green and Rula Daood — building bridges in a divided land

Alon-Lee Green and Rula Daood, co-directors of Standing Together, an Arab-Jewish grassroots movement, navigate the polarised landscape of the Middle East as a Jewish-Israeli, and Palestinian citizen of Israel.

Together, they oppose Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories and advocate for peace, equality, and justice for everyone living between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea.

Before the October 7 attacks, Standing Together was primarily known for opposing Israel’s controversial judicial overhaul. However, its work has since shifted towards fostering Arab-Jewish solidarity and ensuring aid convoys headed to Gaza aren’t obstructed. Both have faced significant harassment and threats for their efforts. “Crisis can give you clarity,” Green told TIME.

Now in its fifth year, the TIME100 Next list “spotlights 100 rising stars who are shaping the future of business, entertainment, sports, politics, science, health and more”. It is considered an expansion of the Time 100 list, which featured Palestinian photojournalist Motaz Azaiza in April.

Speaking about the criteria for making the list, TIME editor Sam Jacobs wrote, “TIME100 Next has no age requirements; it aims to recognise that influence does not have them either, nor does leadership look like it once did.”