In a busy hospital in Azaz, northern Aleppo, Borhan Jasem Kleeb takes a short break between training sessions to share a story that shaped his life. In 2012, while rushing to the scene of an airstrike in Homs, his ambulance was hit. He hurt his shoulder badly, an injury that still troubles him.

“That day changed everything for me. It made me realize that I wanted to spend my life helping others in emergencies,” says Borhan.

Originally from Homs, Borhan lost his entire family during the 2011–2014 siege of the city. Moving to Azaz, northern Aleppo, gave him a fresh start. Now 33, he works with Syria Relief and Development (SRD).

“I’m married now and have 4 children. They help me see things differently and keep me going,” he says.

One moment during the 2023 earthquake stands out for him. He found a 2-year-old child trapped under rubble, still in his mother's arms. While the mother didn't survive, the child did. “The child turned out to be my friend’s son. While grieving the loss of a close friend's wife, saving the little one brought hope.”