We Need to Create Talents, Not Beggars

For many years, the common approach to supporting orphans and children who lost their fathers in the fight against ISIS was simple, give them cash. Governments, NGOs, and generous individuals believed that handing out ready money would solve immediate needs.

In truth, it did help for a day, a week, maybe even a month. But then the cycle repeated. That approach, while well‑intentioned, often created dependency rather than opportunity. With all my respect to those who contributed, giving cash alone can unintentionally teach people how to survive by asking, instead of thrive by creating.

A Different Vision

Through my work at NextGen Foundation, I’ve chosen a harder but far more meaningful path one that builds futures rather than temporary relief. I don’t believe in encouraging people to sit still and wait for help. I believe in unlocking their potential.

Here’s how we approach it:

• Identify their strengths. Every young person carries talents waiting to be discovered.

• Invest in growth. We train, mentor, and give them opportunities to develop their skills.

• Provide tools, not handouts. Instruments, education, networks, and platforms to shine.

• Evaluate and celebrate progress. We guide them to see their own value and leadership potential.

The Result

When you invest in people this way, something remarkable happens.

They don’t just improve their own lives they rise to lead and inspire others. They show their peers and their communities that they are not defined by loss, but by strength and creativity.

These young people can become artists, leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers. They can carry the flag of Kurdistan and any nation onto stages around the world, not as beggars of aid but as ambassadors of talent.

Something New Is on the Horizon

As part of this vision, something new and truly unique is taking shape behind the scenes a future initiative that will embody everything I’ve shared above. Even if we start with a small number of young people, the impact can be enormous. A spark can light a fire.

I can’t reveal details yet, but what’s coming will give these young people more than support, it will give them a platform to rise and lead. Stay tuned… change is on the way.

A Call to Action

To every leader, NGO, and philanthropist reading this:

Let’s rethink our support models.

Let’s go beyond quick fixes and invest in building people’s capacities. Let’s create talents, not beggars.

This is not just a project for us, it is a mission we will continue to pursue every single day. Together, we can nurture a generation that doesn’t wait for help but creates a future for themselves, for their communities, and for the world.

— Mohamad Rashad