Inspiration Forum

"As women in war, we are tired of being strong," say civilians from Gaza and Sudan, Fatma Mohamed and Ruwaida Kamal Amer (recording of the debate in English)

Today's wars aren't just fought between armies on battlefields—they hit civilians the hardest. Women, in particular, bear the greatest burden, having to navigate daily survival while caring for their families, their communities, and themselves amid constant threats. 
What does it mean to live through a war with no clear end in sight? And why do we so rarely hear the voices of those who endure it?

You’ll have the chance to listen to powerful personal testimonies from journalist, producer, and filmmaker Ruwaida Kamal Amer from Gaza, and human rights defender Fatma Mohamed from Sudan. In this intimate interview, they share how armed conflict has reshaped their daily lives, relationships, and hopes for the future.

Ruwaida speaks about surviving without electricity, food, or water, while still teaching children and writing poetry. Fatma describes the dire famine in Sudan, where the blockade of humanitarian aid has forced people to eat leaves or animal feed. Together, they reflect on what war has taken from them and what has helped them endure.

This interview was conducted in October 2024 by documentary filmmaker Ivo Bystřičan. The podcast is presented by neuroscientist and science journalist Pavla Hubálková.

The episode was released on 6 July 2025