Mona Srouji / Nazareth, Palestine: Researcher and Consultant in Community Development

12 October 2026 

I first met Youssef during meetings of the Arab Resource Collective (ARC) in Cyprus back in the 1990s. Youssef was one of the ARC’s founders and pillars. He was a handsome, sharp-witted man with quick reflexes and an exceptionally gentle presence, radiating warmth and quiet humor to everyone around him. He did not speak much during meetings, but whenever he did, he compelled you to think deeply about what he said. I always felt he never compromised; he would lay the tough, real questions on the table with gentleness and calm, all while lovingly celebrating every modest achievement and initiative that might make the world of our children and youth just a little bit fairer.

In Youssef’s presence, you felt you were standing before someone of vast experience and profound knowledge, combined with immense humility. I will always remember his gentle, inspiring presence and his soulful voice belting out Sheikh Imam’s songs during our evening gatherings at ARC.

Rest in peace, dear Youssef, and may your beautiful legacy live on in the hearts of many.