Three Jusoor Scholars, Three Top Universities

Education has a transformative power to change people’s lives and perspectives fundamentally. At Jusoor, we are committed to providing this gift to as many Syrian youth as possible to pursue their dreams at some of the world’s most prestigious universities.

Meet three inspiring Jusoor scholars—Anna Maria Azar, Subhi Abo Rdan, and Joodi Mouhrli—who are excelling at McGill University, MIT, and the University of Cambridge. Their journeys highlight the impact of education, resilience, and the unwavering support of the Jusoor community.

Anna Maria Azar: Empowering Syrian Youth Through Entrepreneurship

Anna Maria Azar, a 19-year-old from Damascus, Syria, is pursuing a bachelor of arts and science (Mathematics and Philosophy) at McGill University in Montreal, Canada. Her journey began when she moved to Lebanon in 2021 and participated in Jusoor’s Startup Roadshow Hackathon, an experience that ignited her passion for entrepreneurship.

"When I came to McGill, I decided that I wanted to do something related to entrepreneurship—whether scientific or social—to give back and support people who were just like me," Anna Maria shares.

For her, Jusoor’s support extends beyond financial aid—it’s about community. "Jusoor offered me the chance to join a supportive network of scholars who share the same mindset. We all want to contribute to our country and help rebuild it. This connection is a huge part of what Jusoor aspires to do, and I’m very grateful for that."

Anna Maria is making the most of McGill’s opportunities, from research to internships, while embracing Montreal’s vibrant bilingual culture. "The high quality of education here counts more than anything else," she says.

Subhi Abo Rdan: From Physics Olympiad in Syria to MIT

Subhi Abo Rdan, a physics and computer science bachelor’s student at MIT, grew up in Syria dreaming of studying at one of the world’s top universities. As a high school student, he watched MIT lectures online—never imagining he would one day sit in those same classrooms.

"Sometimes, when I’m sitting in a lecture, I realize—oh my God, I’m actually at MIT," Subhi says with awe. "It makes me really happy."

His journey was far from easy. After losing his father in the war, Subhi worked to support his family while continuing his education throughout middle school and high school. When he was admitted to MIT with a scholarship from the university, he worried about balancing work to continue supporting himself and his family and studies—until Jusoor stepped in.

"Jusoor supports me with all my travel and personal expenses, so I don’t have to worry. Now, I can focus on my dreams, my studies, and supporting my family at the same time," he explains.

For Subhi, being at MIT is about more than academics—it’s personal growth. "Being around future world leaders and brilliant professors changes your mindset. You grow not just in knowledge, but as a person."

Joodi Mouhrli: From Nursing to Public Health at Cambridge

Joodi Mouhrli, originally from Syria, is now pursuing a master’s in Philosophy of Population Health Sciences at the University of Cambridge. A top student at school and during her Bachelor’s at the American University in Beirut, where she studied Nursing as a Tomorrow’s Leaders Middle East Partnership Initiative fully-funded Scholar, Joodi realized she could make a greater impact by shifting her focus to public health.

"I wanted to widen my scope from hospital care to a broader public health landscape," Joodi explains. "Cambridge offers the research network and career development I needed."

Like many Jusoor scholars, she once doubted whether such opportunities were possible for someone from her background. "When I first walked through Cambridge’s medieval buildings and cobblestone roads, I couldn’t believe this was my life," she recalls.

Jusoor’s support was instrumental in her journey, helping her secure a professional nursing license in the UK. "Jusoor provided counseling, financial aid, and logistical support—everything I needed to succeed."

Education as a Catalyst for Change

Anna Maria, Subhi, and Joodi’s stories are a testament to the power of education and the impact of Jusoor’s support. They are not just students—they are future leaders, researchers, and changemakers determined to give back to their communities.

At Jusoor, we are proud to stand behind these future Syrian leaders as they break barriers and redefine what’s possible for Syrian youth. Their journeys remind us that with opportunity, resilience, and community, dreams can become reality.