One of hundreds of thousands of Syrian refugees in Jordan, Alkhaldi has become a part of the WAKO Because We Care donation programme and, together with Peace and Sport, now organises kickboxing training for more than 250 children in the camp.

He was honoured during the opening ceremony of the recently-held WAKO Senior World Championships in Turkish city Antalya.

As a special guest of WAKO, the international governing body managed to help Alkhaldi get a passport, apply for a visa and planned the whole trip. 

Alkhaldi, 27, was also part of WAKO's "Athlete Corner" concept as well as its seminar, where he told his story.

He has been living in the Zaatari refugee camp since 2013 with his wife and two daughters, and approximately 80,000 other refugees.

"Many things on my trip to Antalya was a first-time experience for me," Alkhaldi said.

"Don't forget that I left my home and my life when I was a boy of almost 20. 

"For the first time in my life I am outside Jordan and Syria."

Prior to his trip to Antalya, Alkhaldi had never previously been on an aeroplane, had never been at the seaside and tasted seawater, and had never before tasted fish.

"Even though I don't know how to swim, it was a very remarkable moment," he added.

"I was looking at that interminable water and thinking that life is just like water. 

"It can be calm, it can be storm, it can be deep and huge, and it can be put in one hand. 

"It can take any shape you want, and it is still amazing. 

"For the first time I have eaten fish. 

"Such small moments are massive to me."

WAKO is part of the Peace and Sport Live Together programme, educating instructors for the purpose of creating social cohesion among refugees.

As a coordinator for United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Alkhaldi came into contact with Peace and Sport and was chosen as a coach in the Zaatari refugee camp after a selection process.