Your Stage : Title: From the Heart of Iraq to the World — The Story of Joori by Haliz Mostafa

Dear Producers at Stage 32,

My name is Helz Mustafa, a mother, writer, and advocate from Duhok, Iraq. I write to you not just with a story — but with a living miracle.

This is the true story of Joori, my daughter born with Down syndrome, in a region where resources for children like her are scarce, and acceptance is even scarcer. Her birth was met not with celebration, but with silence, fear, and judgment — not because of who she is, but because of where we are.

But Joori changed everything.

She taught me that love can rise above ignorance, and that one child can awaken the courage of a mother to change a nation. I documented our journey — the tears, the isolation, the small triumphs, and the unwavering determination — in a book that has reached readers across the Arab world, and was nominated for the Sheikh Zayed Book Award.

But a book is not enough.

The world needs to see Joori. To understand what it means to be different in a society that hides its differences. To feel what it means for a mother to fight systems, stigma, and silence — armed only with love.

This is more than a personal story. It’s a universal message of hope, strength, and change.

From the dusty streets of northern Iraq to the hopeful lights of global awareness, The Story of Joori is ready to become a powerful, emotional film — one that breaks borders, and speaks directly to every heart.

With your vision and voice, we can bring her story to life.

Thank you for your time, and for believing in stories that matter.

Sincerely,

Helz Mustafa

Author of The Story of Joori

Mother | Advocate | Voice for Children with Down Syndrome in the Middle East