Walls, fences, and Israeli checkpoints try to dictate where bodies can and cannot move in Gaza, yet young athletes turn to parkour to reclaim freedom of movement under siege. Yalla Parkour, a film by Areeb Zuaitar, follows this story. In this episode, we sit with Zuaitar and parkour athlete Ahmad Matar to explore how their lives, though miles apart and shaped by different realities, become connected through Palestine, the only place they both feel ultimate belonging to. They share with us how each jump carries defiance and hope, and how, even amid destruction, Gazans continue to rise above the rubble, choosing life over despair.

This episode is hosted by Tala Elissa. Tarwida’s lead producer is Tala Elissa. Our executive producer is Zina Jardaneh. Our associate producer is Zeena Shehadeh. Social media by Leen Karadsheh. Research and copywriting by Dima Sharif. Branding by Sara Sukhun. Theme music includes excerpts from Clarissa Bitar, The Popular Art Centre - مركز الفن الشعبي & Rim Banna. 

This conversation was recorded on August 16, 2025 and is conducted in Arabic. To listen to this episode with English subtitles, please click this link (https://youtu.be/RWNIHFoZggA) to watch it on YouTube! 

Tarwida is a series of conversations that bring Palestinian arts, culture and heritage to the forefront. We hear from artists including writers, filmmakers, musicians, architects, culinary practitioners and more about their very own Palestine.  

In a nutshell, if you want to know more about (Creative) Palestine, this is the place to be. 

Follow us on @tarwidapodcast

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Relevant links and Resources: 

• Watch Yalla Parkour’s trailer
• Follow Areeb Zuaitar on Instagram @areebzuaiter
• Follow Ahmad Matar on Instagram @matargaza
• Follow Gaza Parkour on Instagram @gazaparkour
• Learn more about Gaza’s airport
• Watch this episode on Youtube, here