Journalist Motaz Azaiza recently received the Man of the Year award from GQ Middle East for his commendable work during the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza, have a look at his wife and family
Currently employed as a photographer at UNRWA USA, Azaiza initially began his career by sharing diverse pictures on Instagram. GQ Middle East made the announcement on November 23, 2023, emphasizing Azaiza’s impact and his dedication to positive change.
Who is journalist Motaz Azaiza winner of Man of the Year GQ Middle East magazine, biography, age, family, wife
GQ Middle East honours Motaz Azaiza as Man of the Year 🇵🇸 pic.twitter.com/YnA8LBxAN5
— una (@alicehenryli) November 23, 2023
Motaz Azaiza as GQ Middle East’s ‘Man of the Year’ 🥺❤️ pic.twitter.com/L8XoKEbSCq
— Ruqaiya (@ruqaiya_h) November 23, 2023
GQ Expressed Admiration
The magazine expressed their admiration for Motaz Azaiza and several others who have shown unparalleled fearlessness, including Plestia Alaqad, Hind Khoudary, Wael Al-Dahdouh, the late Issam Abdallah, and the late Shireen Abu Akleh.
They disclosed that Azaiza topped their list after categorizing their awards this year, highlighting his demonstration of human power to bring about the change they aspire to see. The post concluded by extending gratitude to the GQ Middle East team and conveying prayers for Azaiza’s safety and the safety of those around him.
Who is Motaz Azaiza?
Motaz Azaiza, born on January 30, 2002, and raised in a Gaza refugee camp, pursued an education in English language and literature at Al-Azhar University, Gaza.
Born: 30 January 1999 (age 24 years)
Nationality: Palestinian
He graduated from Al-Azhar University of Gaza in 2021 with a degree in English Language and Literature; the same university that has now been reduced to rubble by Israel’s current aggression and the Palestinian photographer was one of thousands of graduates in Gaza who struggled to find inspiration after graduating, due to the high unemployment rate in Gaza.
The Palestinian is no stranger to grief himself, having lost 15 relatives in an Israeli airstrike on his house. Nothing is known about his family members and marital status but he is belieed to be unmarried and single.
Facing challenges in securing employment, he turned to social media, garnering a substantial following on Instagram for his skillful photography. Azaiza worked with organizations such as Medecins Du Monde Suisse, MintPress News, and ABC News before joining UNRWA USA in March, capturing the impact of the ongoing conflict on Gaza residents.
In an interview with The New Arab, Azaiza revealed the tragic loss of relatives in a Gaza airstrike and described living in what he termed a “dark place.” He emphasized the Palestinians’ enduring oppression for 75 years, distancing himself from Hamas and expressing a desire for Gaza and Palestine to no longer be perpetual conflict zones.
Reflecting on Gaza’s peaceful past, Azaiza recalled capturing images of “children playing on the swings” and family reunions. He highlighted the urgent need to end the conflict, citing exhaustion, significant losses, and the population’s inability to bear further hardships.
Azaiza’s Instagram, with around 15 million followers, showcases poignant pictures of injured children and mourning families. The recognition from GQ Middle East adds to Azaiza’s profile, acknowledging his impactful work amid challenging circumstances.
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