Unstoppable Spirit: Mohammad’s Journey Beyond Disability in Zaatari Camp
Unstoppable Spirit: Mohammad’s Journey Beyond Disability in Zaatari Camp
Every year, on 3 December the world marks the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, a day dedicated to celebrating strength, challenging stereotypes, and promoting inclusion. In Zaatari camp, one young refugee athlete proves that being born with a disability is not a barrier to chasing and realizing dreams. Meet Mohammad Karaman, a passionate taekwondo athlete whose determination inspires everyone around him.
Born in Syria with a congenital limb difference, Mohammad has lived in Zaatari camp in Jordan since the age of four. He has never allowed his physical limitation to define him. From an early age, his quiet determination set him apart and paved the way for his success in taekwondo. His strength lies in his discipline and resilience, as demonstrated by his strong passion for martial arts.
Turning Challenges into Strength
At the age of 13, Mohammad stepped onto the mat for his first taekwondo class at the local sports academy in Zaatari camp. This path would transform his life. “Since childhood, I’ve loved martial arts that focus on kicking,” he says with a smile. “When I joined my first taekwondo class in Zaatari, it was pure joy; I knew I’d found my purpose.”
Learning wasn’t easy; many techniques relied on arm coordination, which posed a challenge for him due to his disability.
“At first, I struggled with arm-based techniques,” he recalls. “But I refused to let that stop me. Every challenge became an opportunity to improve.” His determination soon paid off. Mohammad began to shine, earning gold medals and trophies at both local and international competitions. His talent carried him beyond the camp to tournaments in Korea and Malaysia, where he proudly represented Syrian refugees and proved that disability does not define ability.
Now 17, he is more than a refugee; he’s an athlete, a dreamer, and a fighter in every sense of the word.
Balancing Study and Sport
Despite his growing success, Mohammad remains committed to his education.
“Balancing training and studying isn’t easy,” he admits. “I train most of the day, then study at night. It’s tough, but I’m giving it my best.”
In his limited free time, Mohammad enjoys quiet moments with his family, his greatest source of support.
“My family, especially my father, has been my backbone. They motivate me to work harder and never give up on my dream.”
His father, Maher, 35, echoes this.
“Mohammad was my first joy; he gave me the meaning of fatherhood,” Maher recalls. “Despite being born with a disability in his arm, that never stopped him. When he showed an interest in taekwondo, I did everything to support him as much as I could, especially with nutritious food, even when I struggled financially.”
A Dream that Kicks Forward
Mohammad’s dream is clear: to represent taekwondo athletes with disabilities on the Olympic stage.
“My dream is to reach the Olympics in Los Angeles and win a gold medal in Taekwondo,” he says with determination. “I want to prove that nothing is impossible when you believe in yourself.”
He also hopes to inspire other young refugees in Zaatari Camp to follow their passions and build better futures.
“I tell the youth around me: explore different sports, learn new skills, and believe in your abilities. Every effort you make today builds the foundation for tomorrow.”
Beyond the Medals
For Mohammad, taekwondo is more than a sport; it’s a philosophy of life.
“Taekwondo isn’t about fighting,” he explains. “It teaches self-defence, discipline, and respect. It builds your character and your values.”
From the dusty grounds of Zaatari Camp to international arenas, Mohammad Karaman stands as a symbol of resilience, perseverance, and hope.
His father watches proudly from the sidelines, knowing every sacrifice was worth it.
“When I see him compete, I don’t see disability,” Maher says softly. “I see courage.”
And that courage continues to inspire everyone who hears Mohammad’s story, a reminder that everything is possible with determination, dedication and love.