Bahraini filmmaker and social media creator Omar Farooq, one of the Arab world’s most influential voices with over 18 million followers across platforms, has been a UNHCR supporter since 2017. Through his creative storytelling, he has consistently used his reach to advocate for refugees and mobilize public support, particularly through Zakat and Sadaqah campaigns.

In 2024, Omar undertook a mission to Renk, South Sudan, to highlight the Sudan emergency. The visit resulted in a powerful video series across YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, giving audiences a first-hand view of the situation faced by Sudanese refugees. His storytelling resonated widely, reaching over 9 million people and achieving exceptional engagement.

The campaign directly raised over $40,000 and generated an additional $60,000 in indirect income for UNHCR’s Islamic Philanthropy program, while inspiring more than $120,000 in new donor contributions overall. During Ramadan, his short-form fundraising appeal contributed a further $68,000.

Encouraged by the overwhelmingly positive feedback from his audiences, who have expressed strong trust in UNHCR’s 100% Zakat distribution policy and the tangible impact of their donations, Omar intends to continue focusing on Islamic Philanthropy campaigns as a core part of his advocacy moving forward.

Omar’s authentic storytelling and ability to connect emotionally with audiences made his Sudan content one of UNHCR’s top-performing fundraising pieces of the year, demonstrating the power of faith-driven digital engagement in amplifying support for displaced communities.