Friends,

We wanted to share a brief but powerful update from Rahaf Shamaly, our musical ambassador from Gaza.

She and her band were recently granted asylum and residency in Spain. From there, she traveled back to Qatar for important events and speaking engagements, and she is now in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where she is performing with her band at an event called “Soul of Palestine.”  This event marks the first time her band has appeared on stage in Saudi Arabia explicitly in the name of Palestine—a deeply meaningful and emotional moment for her as an artist and cultural ambassador.

While her work continues internationally, her heart remains with her family in Gaza. They are still living in a tent under harsh winter conditions. Their home was destroyed just three days before the truce.

Carrying both hope and grief, she continues her work—not because it is easy, but because it is necessary, for her family and for her people. She has chosen to be a voice for Palestine, to tell their stories, and to carry Gaza in her heart wherever she goes.

We are honored to support her and to help amplify her voice.

From Gaza to Jeddah: Sol Band steps onto the stage for the very first time in a night of connection, hope, and the spirit of Gaza in all our hearts.

Update On Abaho's Van

Thanks to your incredible generosity, we are making strong progress toward our goal of replacing the engine in Abaho’s van — the vehicle that transports people, instruments, food, and supplies to every refugee music and healing program in Uganda.

We’re not there yet, but we are much closer. With a little more support, we can get this vital vehicle back on the road and ensure that music, healing, and community continue to reach thousands of refugees.

We have launched a GoFundMe campaign to help Abaho get back on the road.
You can donate here: 

Your support — in any amount — directly helps former conscripted child soldiers, families who have fled war, and thousands of refugees who rely on these music and dance gatherings for healing, connection, and hope. If you’re unable to give right now, sharing the campaign with friends makes a meaningful difference as well.

Any funds raised beyond the cost of the engine will be used to support Abaho’s ongoing programs and to strengthen the work of all of our Musical Ambassadors around the world. This includes covering essential bank and administrative fees and ensuring that, once the van is back on the road, these life-changing projects can continue to grow and thrive. 

Thank you for helping keep music, movement, and community alive for thousands of refugees!

Thank You For Your Support!

As we approach the end of the year, we’re deeply grateful for every gift that helps carry this work forward. If you’re considering a year-end contribution, your support makes a meaningful difference. Thank you for your compassion, your generosity, and for believing — as we do — in the power of music to heal and bring people together.

With Gratitude,
Patricia Irby
Executive Director
Musical Ambassadors Of Peace

p.s. - if you would rather send a check earmarked for Abaho's Van or for general support, please send it to Musical Ambassadors Of Peace

c/o Patricia Irby

1590 Garfield Ave. #H

Louisville, CO 80027