In this interview, Ismaeel Suleiman, Director of MFA's office in Ar-Raqqah, reflects on the daily work of Almansoura Primary Health Care Center and the people who make it possible.

1. Tell us about yourself, what is your role at MFA's Ar-Raqqah office and at Almansoura PHC, and what does your work look like day to day?

I am Ismaeel Suleiman, Director of MFA's Ar-Raqqah office. I manage Almansoura Primary Health Care Center together with the administrative manager, and my daily work involves following up on the center's operations, resolving the day-to-day challenges that arise, and coordinating patient care and preparation.

2. Can you tell us about a patient or a moment at Almansoura PHC that you remember well?

One moment that has stayed with me involved a patient who suffers from asthma. I was in the pharmacy when our pharmacist handed him his asthma inhaler. He told us that the service we provide means so much to him that he could not find words to express his gratitude. When we told him this was simply our duty, he began to cry. That moment left a deep impression on me and, at the same time, filled me with pride and joy in what we and the Multifaith Alliance provide to our community.

3. What is the best and hardest part of running the PHC and the Ar-Raqqah office?

Both the best and the hardest part are the same: our team. The staff at the center carry out their duties fully and tirelessly, without complaint, and I am continually humbled by their dedication.

4. What makes MFA different from other organizations?

What sets MFA apart is how it shortens the distance between departments and staff. There is real trust placed in employees, along with a genuine sense of flexibility and comfort in how we are able to do our work.

5. How do you know what the community around Almansoura needs before you act?

I meet regularly with the health center's staff, many of whom live in Almansoura themselves. Through them, we are able to understand and assess the true needs of the area before deciding how to respond.

6. What is a moment that reminded you why this work matters to you?

I have been doing this work for several years. There was a period when I had to step away for more than ten days due to a health issue, and it took a real toll on me emotionally. But the moment I returned to work, my spirit lifted immediately. That was when I understood just how much this work means to me.

7. What gives you hope for the future? And what is the future direction of your work at MFA as a result?

Every day, a new patient comes to us for care. Every day, we provide consultation to a pregnant woman. Every day, a new child walks through our doors and receives the care they need. Every day brings a new challenge to keep delivering these services with the same quality, and that challenge itself is what gives me hope to keep going into the future.

In closing, I feel enormous pride in being part of the MFA team. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to every member of the MFA staff everywhere, and to all of our partners and donors, for making this work possible.