What’s happening:

Liri Albag, recently released from captivity in Gaza, captured public attention after appearing in a blue sweatshirt adorned with the iconic smiley-face logo from Justin Bieber’s Drew House fashion line. Her appearance drew the attention of not only the world but also Bieber’s business partner and creative designer, Ryan Good.

Why it matters:

This moment shines a spotlight on both the personal journey of Albag and the power of symbols like the Drew House brand to promote messages of love and joy, transcending borders and circumstances. It further highlights the resilience and humanity of those affected by conflicts.

Behind the scenes:

Ryan Good, in collaboration with Justin Bieber, founded Drew House in 2019 as a celebration of ‘love and joy.’ Good shared Albag’s uplifting photo with his audience, using it as a testament to their vision. He expressed that seeing Albag’s freedom and her reunion with her family is a genuine and beautiful example of the brand’s core values.

The broader context:

Albag’s story also highlights the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, emphasizing both the human cost and the triumphs found in moments of liberation and joy. It is an example of how cultural icons like fashion and celebrities can intersect with important global narratives to affect change.

This story was first published on ynetnews.com.