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Check FAQAbout Rosie-Lyse
Rosie-Lyse Thompson is a multimedia journalist based in Amman, Jordan and travels throughout the Middle East. She has professional experience in both field and news production and has spent the past five years in the Middle East covering stories focused on the humanitarian and security fallout of the conflict in Syria. Her work has been published on various international media outlets, including Al Jazeera English, AJ+, The New York Times, The Huffington Post, Associated Press, Channel News Asia, VICE, The Guardian, BuzzFeed, Sky Arabia, and BBC Arabic. Rosie speaks Levantine Arabic at an advanced level and in 2012 graduated top of her year with a first class distinction in MA Television Journalism from Goldsmiths College, the University of London. She is a recent Rory Peck fellow and holds an up-to-date Surviving Hostile Regions and Emergency First Aid certificate. She shoots on a Canon C100 Mark II and a Canon 5D Mark III and edits on Premier Pro and Photoshop.
Arabic
English
Video Package (Web / Broadcast)
Audio package (Radio / Podcast)
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
Fact Checking
Portfolio
Meet the dance crew taking steps towards success in Qatar
CrewQ, a street-style dance group based in Doha, Qatar, has achieved significant success by winning the Under 16 beginners division at the UDO World Championship in London. The group, formed by MFEC dance academy coach Gerald Hernandez, consists of top dancers from the academy, which was founded by Aristotle Hernandez. The academy has grown significantly, reflecting Qatar's multicultural landscape. CrewQ aims to compete internationally and develop a vibrant dance scene in Qatar, recently performing at the Mall of Qatar. The group's rigorous training and diverse membership highlight the positive impact of dance on youth empowerment and cultural diversity.
Meet the choir singing a chorus of diversity in Qatar
Alena Pyne founded Qatar's first youth choir in 2013, fostering a diverse group of young singers from over 50 nationalities. The choir, known for performing folk songs in multiple languages, has achieved significant recognition, including winning the youth section of the Qatar National Music competition and performing internationally. The choir's participation in the International Choral Festival of Preveza in 2022 resulted in three awards. Members of the choir, such as Milonee Bera and Mattias Van Aksenoy, highlight the personal growth and sense of community fostered by their involvement. Alena Pyne's leadership has enabled many students to pursue further musical studies through scholarships.
Meet the Qatari farmer growing medicinal plants in the desert
Mohamed Al-Khater, inspired by his childhood experiences with aromatherapy, has transformed Torba Farm in Qatar into one of the country's first organic permaculture farms. Alongside his sister Fatma, they produce a variety of organic products, including over 60 types of essential oils. The farm promotes local heritage and sustainability, employing over 60 workers and offering interactive sensory experiences for visitors. Torba Farm also focuses on reducing its carbon footprint by using renewable resources for packaging and sustainable farming practices.
The cowboys roaming the deserts of Bahrain
In Bahrain, a group of cowboy enthusiasts, influenced by Western films and the iconic American cowboy lifestyle, regularly meet to practice horse-riding, prepare traditional food, and share their passion for cowboy culture. This subculture, dating back to the 1970s, has over 300 members who participate in reining competitions and other events. They hope for official recognition of their sport by the Bahrain Royal Equestrian and Endurance Federation. The community's spirit of brotherhood plays a significant role in its growing popularity.
The jungle environmentalist saving elephants in Thailand
Vijo Varghese, originally from south India, moved to Thailand and founded OurLand, one of Thailand's first privately managed wildlife reserves, to protect wildlife and promote sustainable living. OurLand focuses on conservation, sustainability, and education, aiming to create harmony between humans and nature. The organization has developed strategies to protect wild elephants and support local communities by promoting alternative crops. OurLand also operates an ecovillage that serves as a model for sustainable living and an education center to teach future generations about environmental conservation.
Meet the British boxer trying to end knife crime in London
Isaac Chamberlain, a professional boxer from Brixton, south London, uses his sport to combat knife crime and gang violence. After losing his cousin to a stabbing, Isaac's mother introduced him to boxing, which transformed his life. Now, as an ambassador for the charity Gloves Up Knives Down, he encourages youth to channel their energy into boxing rather than street violence. The organization, founded in 2019, aims to provide an alternative to knife crime through boxing, focusing on physical fitness, mental well-being, and community building. London has seen record levels of knife crime, and the charity believes a multi-disciplinary approach is essential to address the root causes.
Qatar's first male fashion designer leads cultural change and inspires a generation
Fahad Al Obaidly, Qatar's pioneering male fashion designer, has been instrumental in leading cultural change and inspiring a new generation. With a passion for fashion ignited in his youth, Fahad pursued his studies in Europe due to the absence of male fashion designers in Qatar. Upon returning in 2014, he launched his menswear brand, FAO, and became the Head of Public Programmes at M7, an incubation hub for fashion and design established by Qatar Museums under the leadership of Sheikha Al Mayassa. M7 supports local designers with training, workshops, and spaces to succeed and export internationally, reflecting the Qatari government's investment in the creative economy.
Meet Super Sam, the endurance athlete fuelled by the superpower of autism
Sam Holness, an endurance athlete with autism, has completed numerous triathlons and marathons, showcasing his belief that autism is a superpower. Living in London with his parents, Sam's father Tony serves as his coach, emphasizing the importance of both physical and mental training. Sam's achievements, including competing in the Ironman 70.3 World Championship, have inspired many, particularly within the autism community. As an ambassador for Ambitious about Autism, Sam aims to raise awareness and encourage others on the autism spectrum to engage in sports and maintain their health and well-being.
The parkour pioneers of Qatar are taking the sport to another level
Achraf Bejaoui, head coach at Freestylers Tribe in Doha, Qatar's first parkour and freerunning sports center, shares his journey and the impact of parkour on his life. Parkour, originating from French military training, has gained popularity in the Middle East, with Freestylers Tribe providing a safe space for enthusiasts. The sport, recognized by the International Federation of Gymnastics, is both physically and mentally demanding. Coaches emphasize the importance of professional training and perseverance. The article highlights the growing trend and future plans for parkour competitions in Doha.
Meet the Nepali teenagers raising awareness of human trafficking
In Nepal, young women like Neelisha Giri are leading efforts to combat human trafficking and child marriage through education and advocacy. Despite economic challenges, these campaigners, supported by organizations like Plan International, are making significant strides in raising awareness and providing resources such as the Maya chatbot to help victims. Their achievements are celebrated on International Women’s Day, highlighting the ongoing fight for gender equality and child safety.
Meet the rock band shining a light on the people of Gaza's struggles
Osprey V, potentially the first rock band in Gaza, is composed of young men from various professions who self-taught music and formed the band to express the Palestinian suffering through rock music. Despite challenges such as power outages, equipment scarcity, and societal conservatism, they have successfully held concerts and participated in international events. They aim to inspire and connect globally, singing in English to reach a wider audience and aspiring to perform on international stages.
Meet the rock band shining a light on the people of Gaza's struggles
A group of young professionals in Gaza, forming the rock band Osprey V, use their music to express themes of war, pain, and peace. Despite challenges like scarce resources and societal resistance to Western music, they aim to reach an international audience. Their music, sung in English, seeks to convey the Palestinian struggle, with aspirations to perform globally and inspire other musicians. Their efforts have garnered local and international attention, including participation in the online event Live for Gaza.
Female DJs step up and break taboos in Tunisia
Olfa Arfaoui, driven by her early experiences of gender inequality, has been a proactive advocate for women's representation in Tunisia. She founded La Fabrique, an art studio for women, and later collaborated with Future Female Sounds to establish the DJ Academy in Tunis, the first of its kind in the MENA region. The academy has enrolled over 200 students, offering comprehensive DJing and sound engineering courses. Despite the male-dominated global electronic music scene, the academy aims to empower women and challenge societal norms. Olfa also launched FeMENA and participated in the UN's '16 Days of Activism' to promote gender equality through art and music.
The Indonesian conservationists saving endangered gibbons
A group of young Indonesians on Java island, under the non-profit Swara Owa, are working to conserve endangered silvery gibbons and their habitats. With over 90% of the gibbons' habitat used for human activities, Swara Owa's initiatives like the Coffee and Primate Conservation Project offer economic alternatives to hunting and illegal logging. The project promotes coffee harvesting under forest canopies and beekeeping, providing sustainable livelihoods and aiding in gibbon conservation. Swara Owa also conducts gibbon-watching and field research, contributing to the understanding and preservation of the species. The organization's efforts demonstrate that environmental conservation and human development can coexist.
The ballet dancer inspiring children living in Kenya’s slum
Michael Wamaya, a ballet dancer from Kenya, turned down an international opportunity to use dance as a tool for social change in his homeland. He founded Project Emilu in Kibera, Kenya's largest slum, offering free dance lessons to children, including those with disabilities. The project aims to build confidence and provide a safe space for children, challenging negative perceptions of Kibera and fostering a sense of community and hope.
Meet the Roma girl band empowering women and challenging stereotypes
Pretty Loud, an all-Roma girl band from Serbia, uses their music to address the challenges faced by Roma women, including discrimination, patriarchy, and early marriage. Formed during a workshop by the Gypsy Roma Urban Balkan Beats (GRUBB) School, the band aims to change mindsets and encourage education within the Roma community. Their songs highlight the abuse Roma women suffer and promote independence and self-belief. The article underscores the importance of education in overcoming stereotypes and improving the lives of Roma people.
Meet the classically trained violinist turned grime artist
Tanya Cracknell, a classically trained violinist from East London, transitioned from classical music to the vibrant grime scene after being inspired by its energy and freedom. Her journey took a pivotal turn when she was invited by grime producers The HeavyTrackerz to collaborate, leading to her alter ego 'The Grime Violinist.' Tanya has since performed with notable artists and at major festivals. She is set to release her new album 'CLASSIX,' blending classical melodies with rap and orchestral performances.
Defying the odds - meet the refugee turned game designer
Lual Mayen, a former refugee from South Sudan, became a game designer and CEO of Junub Games in Washington DC. His mother, Nyantet Daruka, saved money to buy him a laptop, which he used to teach himself coding and game design. His first game, 'Salaam', gained viral success and led to his career in the gaming industry. Junub Games now creates mobile games for peacebuilding and conflict resolution. The upcoming version of Salaam allows players to experience the journey of a refugee. Lual also founded the Lual Mayen Foundation, which, with a donation from Unity Technologies, is setting up a tech centre in Uganda to help refugees gain tech employment.
Meet the man who’s aiming to change the face of aviation
Jackson Smith, inspired by his childhood fascination with aviation, overcame discouragement to become a pilot and now aims to increase diversity in the aviation industry through his organization, Fantasy Wings. The program offers workshops, conferences, and mentoring to BAME youth, aiming to break systemic barriers and provide opportunities for underrepresented groups. Smith's efforts have led to significant positive impacts, including helping young people attain cadetships, sponsorships, and job opportunities in aviation.
Meet the women hunting cyber criminals and fighting for justice
During France's first lockdown in March 2020, Shanley Clemot McLaren discovered multiple cyber harassment accounts targeting women on Snapchat. She reported these accounts and subsequently formed the organization 'Stop Fisha' with other women to combat cyber harassment. The group, now an official organization under French law, focuses on investigating dangerous accounts, supporting victims, raising awareness, and advocating for policy changes. Despite the challenges posed by the global pandemic, the members of Stop Fisha have developed a strong bond and continue to expand their efforts across Europe, emphasizing the need for international cooperation to fight cyber sexism.
Surf Ghana: meet the skateboarding collective making waves in Africa
Surf Ghana, an NGO and collective founded by French national Sandy Alibo, is making significant strides in youth empowerment and the development of skateboarding in Ghana. The collective, which includes graphic designers, architects, filmmakers, stylists, and photographers, supports skateboarders and provides them with career opportunities. The skateboarding scene in Ghana has grown, with initiatives like the Skate Gal Club fostering a more inclusive environment. The upcoming Freedom Skate Park in Accra, West Africa's first skate park, aims to further boost the sport and sustainable tourism. It will also serve as a training ground for potential Ghanaian Olympic skateboarders.
Surf Ghana: meet the skateboarding collective making waves in Africa
Surf Ghana, founded by Sandy Alibo, is a collective that has significantly contributed to the growth of skateboarding in Ghana, focusing on youth empowerment and entrepreneurship. The organization supports a diverse group of creatives and has established the Skate Gal Club to promote gender diversity in the sport. Despite the lack of official skate parks, the skateboarding scene in Ghana has flourished, with plans underway to open Freedom Skate Park, West Africa's first skate park, which aims to further develop the sport and nurture future Olympic athletes.
Abu Dhabi hosts the Middle East's first Special Olympics World Games
The Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi commenced with a sold-out crowd, marking the first time the event is held in the Middle East. The opening ceremony featured performances by international and local musicians, including Avril Lavigne and Luis Fonsi. The event, which will see 7,500 athletes from 195 countries compete in 24 sports over seven days, emphasizes the UAE's commitment to empowering people with intellectual disabilities, referred to as 'people of determination.' Key figures such as HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan have highlighted the importance of this global movement.
Jordanian women imprisoned in name of family honour
In Jordan, women at risk of honour crimes are often imprisoned for their own protection under a 60-year-old law. An estimated 65 percent of female inmates are held for such reasons. Despite recent legal reforms, including abolishing a law allowing rapists to marry their victims to avoid punishment, women's rights groups argue for stronger penalties and better protection services. Many women in protective custody are forced into marriages as their only path to freedom, which can lead to further abuse. Plans for a protection shelter have been announced, but implementation is pending.
Jordanian women imprisoned in name of family honour
In Jordan, many women are imprisoned under a law that allows indefinite incarceration for those at risk of honor-based violence. Despite recent legal reforms, activists argue that more needs to be done to protect these women and provide alternatives to imprisonment. The article highlights the traumatic experiences of women like Fatima, who spent 22 years in prison, and the challenges they face even after release. Women's rights groups call for stronger penalties for perpetrators and the establishment of more protection services. The government has announced plans for a protection shelter, but activists stress the need for a comprehensive system to ensure the dignity and safety of these women.
Channel News Asia - Jordan’s rehab centres offer hope to disabled Syrian refugee children
AP MIDDLE EAST EXTRA, JORDAN, ZATAARI GARDENS
AJ+: Who's A She Fighter?
AJ+: International Women's Day – Refugee Role Models
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