Parkour is the sport of moving rapidly through an urban area, overcoming obstacles by running, jumping, and climbing.

But to the members of Gaza Parkour and Free Running it is more. It's a way to take charge over their own risks, dangers, opportunities and personal development. It is a way to show they are not defined by their problems, but by their actions. It's an expression of defiance.

The numerous wars have left entire neighborhoods destroyed. To many Palestinians these symbolize the ongoing conflict and problems they face, but these remnants of war also act as the stage on which the team members prove they are not merely victims, but actors in their own search for freedom.

Not only has the sport of parkour given these teenagers an opportunity to channel their fears, frustrations, anger and energy into something truly beautiful, it has shown them that they are able to control their own future and thereby set them on a path towards a better life.