The Rahaf Spirit Award
A Legacy of Light, Strength, and Purpose
The Rahaf Spirit Award was created in memory of Rahaf Khalifah, a beloved member of the Tomorrow’s Leaders Program community whose life embodied courage, compassion, and continuous growth.
Rahaf was more than a student—she was a source of light, strength, and inspiration. Despite her battle with cancer, she remained deeply committed to her education, her community, and her personal growth. She led with empathy, uplifted those around her, and continued to learn and give, even during her most challenging moments.
Her legacy reminds us that true leadership is not only defined by achievement but by the ability to bring hope, kindness, and strength into the lives of others.
The Rahaf Spirit Award honors that legacy by recognizing a student who carries these values forward.
About the Award
The Rahaf Spirit Award is an annual recognition presented to a current MEPI TLU student who exemplifies:
- Resilience in the face of adversity
- Leadership with empathy and compassion
- A commitment to continuous learning and self-development
This award is both a tribute and a call to action—encouraging students to lead with heart, persevere through challenges, and remain committed to their growth.
Rahaf’s Story
Rahaf Khalifah’s journey was one of courage and unwavering determination.
Diagnosed with cancer while still in high school, shortly after receiving her MEPI acceptance, Rahaf chose to persist. She completed her studies, took a gap year to focus on her health, and later joined LAU as a Mathematics major, embracing her academic journey with resilience and passion.
Throughout her time in the TL Program, Rahaf actively engaged in volunteering, leadership, and learning. She contributed to organizations such as MMKN and LOYAC, participated in workshops and retreats, and built meaningful connections across the community.
As President of the Debate Committee, she led with kindness and vision—creating spaces for dialogue, empowering others, and fostering a culture of collaboration and growth.
Even as her illness returned, Rahaf remained hopeful. She continued attending trainings, earning certificates, creating, learning, and supporting those around her.
She kept giving. She kept learning. She kept shining.
Her impact continues to live on in the TL community.
Award Criteria
Nominees for the Rahaf Spirit Award are evaluated based on the following:
1. Resilience in Adversity
Demonstrates perseverance, strength, and a positive spirit while navigating personal, academic, or social challenges.
2. Leadership with Heart
Leads with empathy, integrity, and compassion. Contributes meaningfully to the community and uplifts others.
3. Commitment to Lifelong Learning
Actively pursues personal and professional growth beyond academic requirements, showing curiosity and initiative.
Nomination & Selection Process
- Eligibility: Open to all current MEPI TLU students
- Nominations: Submitted by TLU peers through the link in the official Call for Nominations email.
- Selection: Reviewed by an internal committee of TL staff
- Frequency: Annual
- For the current cycle, nominations are open until April 26, 2026, at 11:59 PM
Students only need to be nominated once to be considered. The selection process is based on the quality and depth of the nomination, rather than the number of nominations received.
Recognition
The selected recipient of the Rahaf Spirit Award will receive:
- A certificate of recognition
- Recognition within the TL community, including feature opportunities
A Legacy in Motion
The Rahaf Spirit Award is more than an honor—it is a continuation of a story.
A story of courage in the face of hardship.
A story of leading with kindness.
A story of choosing growth, even in the most difficult moments.