Micro-Projects is a livelihood-support program which helps family providers who had either lost their livelihood during the war,
or aspire to be a productive and financially independent part of the community by starting their own income generating business.
By financing their micro-projects, Christian Hope Center is helping Christian families to have a sustainable source of income,
through the provision of equipment, machinery and tools.
This will eventually mitigate the economic harm caused by increasing poverty and insecurity, preserve their dignity,
and alleviate the calamities of war and the economic crisis, which will ultimately preserve the existence of an active Christian community in Syria.
In addition to the Micro-Projects supported in Cities of Aleppo, Homs and Damascus,
the program also supports families who rely on agriculture as their principal source of income in rural Homs.
Art can take many forms, you can find it in paintings, sculptures, movies and even in songs, whereas Sarkis found art in dental prostheses making.
Sarkis Bertizian is a dental prosthesis fabricator who lives in the city of Aleppo. His love for art and dentistry was united in his profession. During the war years, Sarkis’s father died after battling with cancer. The loss of his father was very hard on him, he found himself responsible of his family and although he...
Art can take many forms, you can find it in paintings, sculptures, movies and even in songs, whereas Sarkis found art in dental prostheses making.
Sarkis Bertizian is a dental prosthesis fabricator who lives in the city of Aleppo. His love for art and dentistry was united in his profession. During the war years, Sarkis’s father died after battling with cancer. The loss of his father was very hard on him, he found himself responsible of his family and although he was struggling to practice his profession due to the new responsibilities, he opened a small lab hoping to have a stable life.
Unfortunately for Sarkis, the earthquake that hit Aleppo and the harsh economics that followed the war, were a breaking point for his career. With a lot of passion and ambition, Sarkis refused to give up and decided to seek support from the Micro-Project program, he had the help he needed and he is now back in his lab after doing all the precautionary procedures to have a safe workshop and a sustainable source of income.
Rizk-Allah Rawik is an ambitious 24-year-old, since he was a little boy, he always dreamt of treating the ill and helping those in need. Thus, when he grew up, he decided to become a nurse, he studied for two years in a healthcare institution, and currently, he works night shifts in a hospital, but still; working for 3 days a week isn’t enough to make him a decent income.
After the economy of the country collapsed, providing a decent life for...
Rizk-Allah Rawik is an ambitious 24-year-old, since he was a little boy, he always dreamt of treating the ill and helping those in need. Thus, when he grew up, he decided to become a nurse, he studied for two years in a healthcare institution, and currently, he works night shifts in a hospital, but still; working for 3 days a week isn’t enough to make him a decent income.
After the economy of the country collapsed, providing a decent life for an average family became harder than ever, so he was looking for an additional source of income.
His plan was to find a second job that would improve his condition but still stay in the same field, and that’s why he needed support to start his private practice and take care of patients who need medical care in their houses. the Micro-Projects program enabled Rizk-Allah to purchase basic med care equipment and set him off to start his journey as a successful nurse who provides support for those in need around the clock.
Skills and experience: owner of a barbershop since 2003
Antranig is a kind and talented barber who has a small salon in the city of Aleppo, he started his career in 2003, and his good reputation in the neighborhood played a huge role in the launch of his career. The war didn’t stop Antranig from doing his job but at the same time working in a dangerous city had many tragic consequences, someone like Antranig could leave his house in the morning without knowing if he would ever be...
Skills and experience: owner of a barbershop since 2003
Antranig is a kind and talented barber who has a small salon in the city of Aleppo, he started his career in 2003, and his good reputation in the neighborhood played a huge role in the launch of his career. The war didn’t stop Antranig from doing his job but at the same time working in a dangerous city had many tragic consequences, someone like Antranig could leave his house in the morning without knowing if he would ever be back safely.
On one particular day, a bomb hit the neighborhood and caused severe damage to his salon. The long period of war and the poor economy of the country with the high rates of inflation left Antranig incapable of renewing his salon and replacing the old equipment he once had.
With the help he received through Micro Projects, he was able to buy new equipment, have a new start with his career and provide for his loving family.
George Armenag is a 48-year-old man living with his sister in their parents' house. He used to work in his own shop in Aleppo fixing engines and selling electrical supplies.
When the war started George’s shop was destroyed and robbed, therefore he had to sell his shop at a very low value. With this small amount of money, George and his sister managed to maintain a decent living and keep the household running.
George Armenag is a 48-year-old man living with his sister in their parents' house. He used to work in his own shop in Aleppo fixing engines and selling electrical supplies.
When the war started George’s shop was destroyed and robbed, therefore he had to sell his shop at a very low value. With this small amount of money, George and his sister managed to maintain a decent living and keep the household running.
With no income, George knew he had to do something quickly, He decided to start over with his career, thus he sought help from the program that supports people who lost their livelihood to the vicious war and just like him wanted a second chance to reclaim their lives.
With the support he got from Hope Center, he was able to proceed with his profession and provide a decent income for both himself and his sister.
Enad Dahdal is a 36 years, from Aleppo, he finished his military service in 2018 after serving for 8 years. During this time Enad was located in a dangerous area very close to fire lines, one night while he was up protecting the civilians an attack occurred where Enad got injured in his knee. He underwent 3 operations to recover the injury, and luckily with many physiotherapy sessions, he was able to walk again.
Enad Dahdal is a 36 years, from Aleppo, he finished his military service in 2018 after serving for 8 years. During this time Enad was located in a dangerous area very close to fire lines, one night while he was up protecting the civilians an attack occurred where Enad got injured in his knee. He underwent 3 operations to recover the injury, and luckily with many physiotherapy sessions, he was able to walk again.
Going through such hard times, Enad faced a huge problem reestablishing his social life and getting back to normal. While trying to restart his career in the field of restaurants and food supplies he faced many challenges; considering the economic situation and the high rates of inflation.
By applying to the Micro-Project program, he got the help he needed to get the required equipment and support his parents in their livelihood and eventually be a productive part of the society.
Nihad Ghazal is a 65-year-old with a passion for baking and making pastry since her childhood; she used to make all different types of pastries and give them to her friends at school to try.
As she grew older her love for pastry grew bigger, she used to help her mother with cooking and doing kitchen chores, that’s how she learned her mother’s baking recipes, her secrets and tricks for a perfect bake.
The Ghazal sisters suffered from the war, but unlike...
Nihad Ghazal is a 65-year-old with a passion for baking and making pastry since her childhood; she used to make all different types of pastries and give them to her friends at school to try.
As she grew older her love for pastry grew bigger, she used to help her mother with cooking and doing kitchen chores, that’s how she learned her mother’s baking recipes, her secrets and tricks for a perfect bake.
The Ghazal sisters suffered from the war, but unlike many, they stayed in their house refusing to leave the memories they have in Aleppo.
Despite the lack of power, gas, and clean water, Nihad always managed to find a way to practice her love for baking. In the middle of the war with all the bakeries closed she had the idea to do what she loves and sell what she bakes targeting the neighborhood she lived in.
Now by having the support from Micro-Project, Nihad is now capable of growing her business and increasing her income doing the one thing she loves the most.
Alina is a young woman who lives with her parents; her father works as a car mechanic in a rental shop. Alina’s family traveled to Armenia from 2015 to 2017. Her brother stayed there. After her return, she completed her studies and obtained a baccalaureate degree. In 2021, she took courses related to the field of cosmetics. it all started as a hobby then she started working in a beauty center where she practiced and gained experience.
Aina wants to be the boss of her own project, but she was hesitant to open a salon because of her financial situation and the coordination between her job at the beauty center and her own business.
Thanks to Hope Center Alina became hopeful again, it helped her gain independence for owning a business and now she is ready to thrive.
Skills and experience: four years in the sound and voiceover recording industry
During the war in Syria, Antoine and his family faced many life-threatening moments;“One day, me and my family was coming back home, after parking our car, we heard a loud explosion so we immediately ran to safety, after checking that everyone was okay, we were shocked that a shell had hit our car and it was entirely destroyed.” Surviving such a traumatizing event left the family in a terrible state, they also had to evacuate their house and move to...
Skills and experience: four years in the sound and voiceover recording industry
During the war in Syria, Antoine and his family faced many life-threatening moments;“One day, me and my family was coming back home, after parking our car, we heard a loud explosion so we immediately ran to safety, after checking that everyone was okay, we were shocked that a shell had hit our car and it was entirely destroyed.” Surviving such a traumatizing event left the family in a terrible state, they also had to evacuate their house and move to a safer area.
Going through all those hardships was exhausting, especially a while after Antoine, the sole provider for the family of four, lost his job due to the war. In order to bring food to the table, Antoine decided to turn his talent into a career, with the deep voice he has, he was recording voiceovers on a small scale which was not enough to make a living. Slowly the business started to grow, Antoine made a good name for himself in the industry he was offered to do collaborations for TV and radio commercials and dubbing TV shows in Arabic language, but the lack of equipment was hindering his progress.
Obtaining the technical equipment through the Micro-Project program was crucial for expanding his work. Antoine is now doing well working with many agencies and providing for his family.
Carla Ishak is an ambitious dentist who recently graduated from Aleppo university, being a dentist was her long-lasting dream. When she was a little girl, she used to go to her father’s clinic to watch him at his job while pretending to be his assistant.
Going through the war in Syria was harsh for Carla and her family, as they had to evacuate their home due to several bombings. The prolonged fights and the damage it caused forced the family to...
Carla Ishak is an ambitious dentist who recently graduated from Aleppo university, being a dentist was her long-lasting dream. When she was a little girl, she used to go to her father’s clinic to watch him at his job while pretending to be his assistant.
Going through the war in Syria was harsh for Carla and her family, as they had to evacuate their home due to several bombings. The prolonged fights and the damage it caused forced the family to move to the grandparents’ and even though the fight was halted, the financial hardships prevented them from rehabilitating their house and kept them from going back.
Carla began practicing dentistry right after her graduation with her father’s support in making her dream come true. Once she cultivated her skills, she decided to take another step towards her big dream and open her own practice.
By applying for micro-project, she had the awaited opportunity to a fresh start in her career after getting engaged to the love of her life.
Now dr. Carla is living her life dream; treating patients, making people smile and also helping her family to move back to their home.
After a devastating ten years of war and an awful earthquake, Fares Jesri found himself and his pregnant wife lost in a chaotic situation full of challenges.
Fares used to earn his living working as a waiter in a café in Aleppo when out of nowhere the devastating earthquake that caused massive destruction and disrupted the livelihoods of many has cost Fares his source of income.
His strong will to provide for his family that was about to grow with the baby...
After a devastating ten years of war and an awful earthquake, Fares Jesri found himself and his pregnant wife lost in a chaotic situation full of challenges.
Fares used to earn his living working as a waiter in a café in Aleppo when out of nowhere the devastating earthquake that caused massive destruction and disrupted the livelihoods of many has cost Fares his source of income.
His strong will to provide for his family that was about to grow with the baby on the way, made him even more determined to find a new job with a decent income. Thus, he temporarily started helping his uncle in a small shop that he owns but he knew it won't be sufficient.
Fares decided to harness his knowledge in charcoal making and wanted to start a small workshop, he has a two-year experience in making charcoal back when he lived in Lebanon. He immediately applied for micro-projects and he got approved.
Now Fares started a new chapter in his life, where he owns a small business making his dream come true and ready to welcome his baby to this life and hopefully to a better world.
Skills and experience: 35 years of experience in cloth manufacturing
In 1989, out of many professions “young Bedros” decided to follow his passion for making suits and designing men's clothing.
Life was peaceful and prosperous for Bedros and his family, his business was growing and he was making a good name for himself, especially when he moved from Idleb to Aleppo to work with larger tailoring workshops that were located in the city.
When the war started Bedros lost everything in his hometown; his house, his small shop and all that he...
Skills and experience: 35 years of experience in cloth manufacturing
In 1989, out of many professions “young Bedros” decided to follow his passion for making suits and designing men's clothing.
Life was peaceful and prosperous for Bedros and his family, his business was growing and he was making a good name for himself, especially when he moved from Idleb to Aleppo to work with larger tailoring workshops that were located in the city.
When the war started Bedros lost everything in his hometown; his house, his small shop and all that he had left were the memories. But that was not the end to his agony, later he lost his sister to a tragic mortar shell incident which was devastating to the whole family.
Bedros is now trying to adapt to the harsh obstacles and move on with his life. With more than 30 years of experience and a continuous will to provide for his family, he applied and got accepted in the Micro-Projects program.
Thanks to the support he got, Bedros has now a tailoring shop, where he works hard every day to make a living while still following his love for this profession.
In the early days of the war, Dolly's family was among the first to leave Aleppo. Faced with loss, fear, and danger, they made the bold decision to move to Beirut. Living there for six years was not easy for a family of four. Both Dolly and her husband worked tirelessly to provide for their family. Dolly had the opportunity to work in a bakery in Beirut, where she gained valuable experience. However, when the crisis started, the family had...
In the early days of the war, Dolly's family was among the first to leave Aleppo. Faced with loss, fear, and danger, they made the bold decision to move to Beirut. Living there for six years was not easy for a family of four. Both Dolly and her husband worked tirelessly to provide for their family. Dolly had the opportunity to work in a bakery in Beirut, where she gained valuable experience. However, when the crisis started, the family had to relocate once again, returning to Aleppo with nothing and no place to stay.
Fortunately, a friend offered them a house to live in. In 2018, when they returned to Aleppo, Dolly began searching for a job to support her husband and sustain the family. She worked in several bakeries and sweet shops, but the low income she received was devastating. It seemed like there was no way out of the cycle of low-income jobs.
Upon learning about micro projects, Dolly visited the team and discussed her issues and plans. Now, she is able to be independent in her work and has started her own bakery business, which has increased her income and provided a sustainable source of income.
Fadi's family is originally from Aleppo city, they moved to Homs a long time ago and established a new life there. His career as a carpenter started in 1995, the first workshop that he opened was in Ashira neighborhood, which had witnessed the horrors of war; In 2012, Fadi couldn't reach the workshop and unfortunately, the majority of his equipment was stolen.
After this great loss, he took his wife, their three children, and his mother and escaped to Fairouza village...
Fadi's family is originally from Aleppo city, they moved to Homs a long time ago and established a new life there. His career as a carpenter started in 1995, the first workshop that he opened was in Ashira neighborhood, which had witnessed the horrors of war; In 2012, Fadi couldn't reach the workshop and unfortunately, the majority of his equipment was stolen.
After this great loss, he took his wife, their three children, and his mother and escaped to Fairouza village where he had to find a way to provide for his beloved ones being the only breadwinner, so he traveled to Lebanon and worked there until COVID-19 spread and forced him to return.
Not having a source of livelihood was overwhelming and Fadi almost lost hope; staying jobless increased the burdens on the family, he sold their home in Homs to get them out of this financial hardship, and with the money, he managed to buy a small basement for the family in Fairouza in addition to some used equipment and reopen a workshop there.
During the last three months, Fadi suffered from insufficient power and lacked a lot of important equipment, which he used to borrow in order to finish his work. The hardworking man had the courage to stand on his feet again despite all the tough circumstances he went through, this support will push his project into a sustainable condition and will ensure him and his family a better income.
Skills and experience: 40 years of working experience between Syria and Lebanon.
Nadim is a craftsman from the city of Homs, he fled with his wife and two sons from their home in Bab Al-Sebaa neighborhood to Fairouza village, where they stayed for a while in their relatives' house.
He has worked in floor tiling since 1977, then delivered his great skills in this profession to his two sons Simon and Ehssan, who work with him.
When the situation improved in Homs city, the family couldn't go back because their house was completely stolen,...
Skills and experience: 40 years of working experience between Syria and Lebanon.
Nadim is a craftsman from the city of Homs, he fled with his wife and two sons from their home in Bab Al-Sebaa neighborhood to Fairouza village, where they stayed for a while in their relatives' house.
He has worked in floor tiling since 1977, then delivered his great skills in this profession to his two sons Simon and Ehssan, who work with him.
When the situation improved in Homs city, the family couldn't go back because their house was completely stolen, and since the father and sons found good opportunities in the village, they decided to settle down in Fairouza and sell their home in Homs.
Lately, their work was hindered by many challenges, like the old equipment that Nadim was using for more than 30 years, in addition to the severe lack of electricity. Thus, their productivity sharply decreased and the income was barely sufficient for the daily needs of a family of four, they borrowed the required tools but the frequent blackouts were the biggest obstacle in their way.
Nadim applied for an electric generator and new equipment, which are essential for the sustainability of his work with his sons that is their only source of livelihood despite all the difficulties.
Skills and experience: more than 30 years of experience.
"My love for this profession overcame all the difficulties."
Amal from Al-Qaryatayn village (near Homs) was trained by a famous seamstress, and her career path launched in 1985. She continued working at home after marriage, and many girls learned this profession thanks to her great experience in the field, her special skills crossed the borders of the village and she became one of the well-known seamstresses around all of Homs.
In 2015, Al-Qaryatayn village was attacked by armed groups and Amal's family...
Skills and experience: more than 30 years of experience.
"My love for this profession overcame all the difficulties."
Amal from Al-Qaryatayn village (near Homs) was trained by a famous seamstress, and her career path launched in 1985. She continued working at home after marriage, and many girls learned this profession thanks to her great experience in the field, her special skills crossed the borders of the village and she became one of the well-known seamstresses around all of Homs.
In 2015, Al-Qaryatayn village was attacked by armed groups and Amal's family was displaced; they only took some essentials, while Amal managed to get one of her machines, sadly, their house was completely stolen.
Today, Amal lives with her husband, who is a retired employee, and her son's family of three in Fairouza village. Throughout the displacement period, the family moved between three rented apartments until the costs have become more than they could afford, so they sold their house in the village and bought another one in Fairouza where they settled down.
The hardworking woman rented a small shop and borrowed two sewing machines from her relatives in order to work and help in providing for her family, as her husband's pension was very simple and his health condition prevented him from working. But the machines were old and they negatively affected her productivity.
Amal deserves the support to get new sewing machines as she provided help to people around her all those years, and her rich experience deserves another chance after many hardships.
Ziad has been working in the field of wall painting and wood spraying since he was 20 years old. He is the only provider for his wife Rana and their 3 children; Catherina (16 years old), Toulay (13 years old), and Tarek (1 year old).
He worked in many different construction sites around Homs; in 2011, he was working in a village called "Kafr Aya" when armed groups attacked the area, Ziad and the workers who were with him thankfully managed...
Ziad has been working in the field of wall painting and wood spraying since he was 20 years old. He is the only provider for his wife Rana and their 3 children; Catherina (16 years old), Toulay (13 years old), and Tarek (1 year old).
He worked in many different construction sites around Homs; in 2011, he was working in a village called "Kafr Aya" when armed groups attacked the area, Ziad and the workers who were with him thankfully managed to escape but they couldn’t salvage the equipment, unfortunately, he lost all of the main tools of his work and had to start all over again.
Compensating for this loss was impossible due to the hard economic circumstances, but Ziad continued working by using some modest tools in addition to renting essential equipment like the electric generator and air compressor.
For a well-experienced man like Ziad, having the needed equipment will make a big difference in his income and will help him to recover the work opportunities which he lost due to not having the needed tools.
Skills and experience: more than 13 years of experience in interior designing
Shadi's ambition has no limits and when his work as an employee was no longer enough to cover his family's needs, he decided to follow a new path. In 2007, he studied interior design online and started working as a freelancer by connecting and dealing with engineering firms.
The single man lives with his mother and two sisters in their house in Al-Hamidia neighborhood. In 2012 the family escaped their city when it became very dangerous; they traveled to a village...
Skills and experience: more than 13 years of experience in interior designing
Shadi's ambition has no limits and when his work as an employee was no longer enough to cover his family's needs, he decided to follow a new path. In 2007, he studied interior design online and started working as a freelancer by connecting and dealing with engineering firms.
The single man lives with his mother and two sisters in their house in Al-Hamidia neighborhood. In 2012 the family escaped their city when it became very dangerous; they traveled to a village in rural Homs called "Marmarita" where they stayed for five years; Shadi continued his work there as a designer and managed to save some money to repair the family's house and moved back with his mother and sisters.
During the rapid technological development, using a laptop with simple features became impractical and slowed down the work pace, which deprived him of taking new job offers, while buying a new computer was impossible as it has become a dream for many people due to its high price. Completing the simplest tasks took a lot of time on this worn-out device and 6 months ago, Shadi had to stop working.
This self-made man deserves a chance to improve his small business, having the needed laptop will open up wider opportunities and change his situation for the better.
Skills and experience: 18 years of experience in photography
“The more you work hard, the more opportunities you will get, nothing comes easily”
Naeem is a photographer who lives with his parents and brother in Al-Hamidia neighborhood. He chose this career when he was 18 and worked for two well-known photographic laboratories where he gained many special skills.
On the 1st of May 2011, he was called for military service, and his family faced the same fate as many Syrian families who were displaced from their homes. Once their neighborhood was...
Skills and experience: 18 years of experience in photography
“The more you work hard, the more opportunities you will get, nothing comes easily”
Naeem is a photographer who lives with his parents and brother in Al-Hamidia neighborhood. He chose this career when he was 18 and worked for two well-known photographic laboratories where he gained many special skills.
On the 1st of May 2011, he was called for military service, and his family faced the same fate as many Syrian families who were displaced from their homes. Once their neighborhood was no longer safe, they escaped to a village near Homs after their house was severely damaged, and took them 5 years to repair it.
The ambitious young man didn’t give up on his passion and kept thinking about his dream project during his service, he always imagined the day he would finally be able to open his own photography shop. Naeem finished his nine-year service, which he spent suffering from the terrors of war. In June 2020, he picked up his camera again and started working depending on private photo sessions, because he was unable to rent a shop.
One year was enough for Naeem to prove himself among the other photographers in the city; his creativity was clear in all of his work until he managed to rent a shop in 2021 and work using the same old camera. Sometimes he had to rent a camera in order to ensure the desired quality, but on the other hand, there were some times when he couldn’t afford the rent costs and had to edit his photos to get a better result.
Having a new camera will help him save his project and have the chance to continue doing what he loves. Naeem is doing his best to compensate for all the years he lost due to the brutal war, and it’s time for him to settle down and establish his future life.
Tarek's future was changed forever when he was called to serve in the army for 10 years of his life. He lives with his wife Nour, who works as an employee, and their 3-year-old daughter Catalia in a rented apartment and he is also the sole provider for his widowed mother.
After his long service finished, his journey to find a source of livelihood began; having no former experience in any profession was a huge barrier in his way, he thought...
Tarek's future was changed forever when he was called to serve in the army for 10 years of his life. He lives with his wife Nour, who works as an employee, and their 3-year-old daughter Catalia in a rented apartment and he is also the sole provider for his widowed mother.
After his long service finished, his journey to find a source of livelihood began; having no former experience in any profession was a huge barrier in his way, he thought about buying a mini pick-up truck because of his driving experience but it was very expensive.
He traveled to Lebanon seeking better opportunities and worked there in a spices shop, but unfortunately, he couldn't stay there for more than 4 months due to the economic crisis. The family lived off on Nour's salary until Tarek managed to find a job as a worker in a factory with a very modest income, hardly covering the increasing daily needs.
Having a mini pickup truck is new hope in Tarek's life, it will help him to improve his family's life after suffering for years from the brutal war.
Skills and experience: 15 years of experience as a driver
Faraj had to leave school and seek a source of livelihood at a very young age in order to help provide for his parents and siblings. After finishing his military service in 1996, he worked as a driver on different vehicles, and throughout his long career he dealt with many companies.
Faraj got married in 2002 and had two sons. In 2011, the family of four escaped their home city Homs, to a village called "Kafroun" where he had to work...
Skills and experience: 15 years of experience as a driver
Faraj had to leave school and seek a source of livelihood at a very young age in order to help provide for his parents and siblings. After finishing his military service in 1996, he worked as a driver on different vehicles, and throughout his long career he dealt with many companies.
Faraj got married in 2002 and had two sons. In 2011, the family of four escaped their home city Homs, to a village called "Kafroun" where he had to work 2 jobs being the family's only breadwinner, he always did his best to cover their growing needs.
During the displacement period, one of his sons Fadi was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that affected his optical nerves; he went through five surgeries, but unfortunately, all the efforts didn't improve his situation. It was a rough time for the whole family and Faraj's wife Radah, got a neurological disease as a result of her deep sadness.
In 2020, the family returned to the city of Homs and settled down in a rented apartment. Faraj's attempts to find suitable work weren't successful, the family's savings were all spent on Fadi's treatment costs and Faraj couldn't afford to buy a vehicle to work on, which put him in a serious financial crisis.
Having a mini pick-up truck was a ray of hope in Faraj's life and a new chance to work and compensate for the tough circumstances he experienced with his lovely family.
Skills and experience: more than 10 years of experience.
Syrian women have always been an essential part of the country's economic structure, playing big roles in many different sectors and Duaa is an example of that.
Duaa and her husband Rami are a young couple from Maskanah village, they work together in their land of grapevines, which is their only source to provide for their 5-year-old daughter Elitia and their 1-year-old baby George.
The family owns a tractor in addition to a tanker that they fill with the required agricultural materials...
Skills and experience: more than 10 years of experience.
Syrian women have always been an essential part of the country's economic structure, playing big roles in many different sectors and Duaa is an example of that.
Duaa and her husband Rami are a young couple from Maskanah village, they work together in their land of grapevines, which is their only source to provide for their 5-year-old daughter Elitia and their 1-year-old baby George.
The family owns a tractor in addition to a tanker that they fill with the required agricultural materials like pesticides and medications for their plants; Duaa and Rami used to borrow a pump from their relatives to spray their land, but unfortunately, the pump broke down and the spraying costs have become more than they could afford, while buying this important equipment was impossible due to its expensive price.
Grapevines need special care and continuous spraying with medications and pesticides to guarantee good production, the pump will help in decreasing the high costs thus, this lovely family will have better crops and increase the profits of their life project.
Fadi from Maskanah village is a married man and a father of two children. He worked as a wall painter in Lebanon for 23 years and unfortunately, was one of the craftsmen who lost their livelihoods there due to the economic crisis and the rapid spread of Coronavirus.
In 2019, the hardworking man had no other choice but to return and start over; he tried to find a suitable work opportunity in his profession but being out of the country all...
Fadi from Maskanah village is a married man and a father of two children. He worked as a wall painter in Lebanon for 23 years and unfortunately, was one of the craftsmen who lost their livelihoods there due to the economic crisis and the rapid spread of Coronavirus.
In 2019, the hardworking man had no other choice but to return and start over; he tried to find a suitable work opportunity in his profession but being out of the country all these years made him lack the required relations with engineers and other craftsmen who could provide work opportunities.
Fadi is the sole breadwinner for his family of four, so he couldn't stay long without ensuring them a source of income, which would be sufficient to cover their growing needs. However, since he had the time, he decided to work with his brothers in farming and the land became his resort after losing everything.
Fadi is giving all of his heart to guarantee the best crops in the family's land of grapevines. He applied for a mini-cultivator to cut down on the high plowing costs while on the other hand, he can secure an additional income by helping other farmers with this important equipment.
Skills and experience: More than 30 years of experience.
The economic situation imposed a new reality on the country, the huge inflation affected all the activities and caused a severe lack of work opportunities.
During the last few months, Bassam's work has almost stopped; he worked as a plumber since 1990, he provides for a big family consisting of his wife Laila, his sister-in-law Mirvat who is blind, his daughter Hiba, and his son Samer who got newly married and works with him in plumbing.
Skills and experience: More than 30 years of experience.
The economic situation imposed a new reality on the country, the huge inflation affected all the activities and caused a severe lack of work opportunities.
During the last few months, Bassam's work has almost stopped; he worked as a plumber since 1990, he provides for a big family consisting of his wife Laila, his sister-in-law Mirvat who is blind, his daughter Hiba, and his son Samer who got newly married and works with him in plumbing.
Bassam lost all of his equipment during the war, he had to work using rented equipment. But the main reason for his financial situation deterioration was having no job for over six months, he tried working many times but couldn't afford the renting costs and the money he had saved was barely enough to cover his family's basic needs.
Supporting Bassam with new equipment was important to give this family a new chance to change their harsh circumstances hoping for better days to come.
Skills and experience: more than 20 years of experience.
Mohsen is a married man with five children, he used to work in floor grinding and polishing in Lebanon but unfortunately, he lost his work and had to return home due to the hard situation there. The only choice left for him in order to ensure a dignified life for his family was to go back to his original work in farming, which he had depended on for more than 20 years.
Mohsen's land is planted with olive trees, different kinds...
Skills and experience: more than 20 years of experience.
Mohsen is a married man with five children, he used to work in floor grinding and polishing in Lebanon but unfortunately, he lost his work and had to return home due to the hard situation there. The only choice left for him in order to ensure a dignified life for his family was to go back to his original work in farming, which he had depended on for more than 20 years.
Mohsen's land is planted with olive trees, different kinds of fruit, and wheat, but lately his crops deteriorated as a result of the tractor he had, which is essential for plowing and other agricultural activities because it needed maintenance and the repairs would cost a big amount of money that he can not afford.
Now thanks to the micro project program, Mohsen can drive his tractor again and save the high costs of rent that he used to pay whenever he plowed his land, and most importantly, he can revive his land and improve its agricultural condition.
Alaa is a talented young man in his twenties, he lives with his parents and sister in Jaramana after being displaced from their home in Harasta due to the armed conflict in the area at the beginning of the Syrian crisis.
Alaa was always passionate about photography so he trained at a young age at a Clacket studio to learn more about this career, then he got employed at the communication department at SSSD as a photographer until 2018 trying to...
Alaa is a talented young man in his twenties, he lives with his parents and sister in Jaramana after being displaced from their home in Harasta due to the armed conflict in the area at the beginning of the Syrian crisis.
Alaa was always passionate about photography so he trained at a young age at a Clacket studio to learn more about this career, then he got employed at the communication department at SSSD as a photographer until 2018 trying to find better income to match the increasing costs of living.
Soon after, he started working at an event planning office as a photographer and videographer, but at the same time he was dreaming of having his own equipment that would enable him to establish private work and develop his career.
With the help of Hope Center, Alaa was supported to purchase a camera which was a dream coming true for him as he is able now to have his own photography session, and at the same time add his own signature which will empower his name in the field and open the chance of developing his work and improving his living conditions.
In the heart of a bustling area nestled a home where dreams brewed and aspirations soared. Dhyaa Al-Btros, his wife, and his family members lived within its walls, each floor holds a part of his close-knit family.
Since 2004, he delved into the field of confectionery, honing his skills by working at various pastry shops. In 2008 he was called for military service until 2010. Upon discharge, he returned to his roots in Khabab, opening a pastry shop until 2014 when...
In the heart of a bustling area nestled a home where dreams brewed and aspirations soared. Dhyaa Al-Btros, his wife, and his family members lived within its walls, each floor holds a part of his close-knit family.
Since 2004, he delved into the field of confectionery, honing his skills by working at various pastry shops. In 2008 he was called for military service until 2010. Upon discharge, he returned to his roots in Khabab, opening a pastry shop until 2014 when adversity struck, so he relocated his shop to the Al-Dukhanieh area in Damascus, but the situation wasn't any better there as violent incidents and armed conflict took place in the area which resulted in the loss of his shop.
Undeterred, he adopted a novel approach, distributing goods via electric bicycles until 2019 when he was called again for the reserve service for three years before resuming the distribution of goods and biscuits, using his brother's electric bicycle.
Presently, Dhyaa toils in the morning as a warehouse worker, and by dusk, continues his work on a bicycle, aspiring to have a pick-up truck for efficient distribution, which would improve his income and release him from the hard morning work.
considering this tapestry of trials and challenges, Dhyaa was supported by the Micro project program to purchase his own pick-up truck hoping to empower his unwavering spirit in the face of adversity, improve his living conditions, and preserve his dignity.
Karin Jbeil, a woman of remarkable courage and determination, born in 1989, lived a journey of strength and self-discovery that shaped her life forever.
Married to Wissam Al Ramahin, a dedicated hospital employee, Karin’s life revolved around her family. With two precious children, Sharbel born in 2010, and Christelle in 2013, her days were filled with love and purpose.
Karin's entrepreneurial spirit ignited in 2008 when she enrolled in a nail and waxing course at the European Institute. From 2012 onwards, she...
Karin Jbeil, a woman of remarkable courage and determination, born in 1989, lived a journey of strength and self-discovery that shaped her life forever.
Married to Wissam Al Ramahin, a dedicated hospital employee, Karin’s life revolved around her family. With two precious children, Sharbel born in 2010, and Christelle in 2013, her days were filled with love and purpose.
Karin's entrepreneurial spirit ignited in 2008 when she enrolled in a nail and waxing course at the European Institute. From 2012 onwards, she began her journey offering her skills to the community. Her home, became her workplace, with a room dedicated to her craft.
The echoes of war that ravaged their area in subsequent years did not deter Karin. Despite the chaos and uncertainty, she persevered, balancing her career aspirations with the safety of her children so she started to work in a nearby childcare center for two years, ensuring stability for her family during tumultuous times.
As peace slowly returned to Dowella, Karin resumed her passion for beauty, working part-time at local salons but the low salary wasn’t worth the long hours she spent far from her kids. She yearned to establish her own beauty salon, equipped with nail and waxing services.
Having support from Hope Center to have her own salon not only empowered her to become financially independent, but also assured her that dreams can flourish, and lives can be transformed.
Reineh Al-Hosh was born in 1997 into a family of craftsmen, Reineh's destiny seemed to unfold within the sparks of a blacksmith's workshop as his father, a seasoned blacksmith, toiled tirelessly at the forge.
From 2017, Reineh honed his craft across various workshops, absorbing every flicker of knowledge passed down by his father's skilled hands. Yet, amidst the clanging of metal, shadows loomed over his family as many health issues burdened his parents, casting shadows over his aspirations.
Reineh Al-Hosh was born in 1997 into a family of craftsmen, Reineh's destiny seemed to unfold within the sparks of a blacksmith's workshop as his father, a seasoned blacksmith, toiled tirelessly at the forge.
From 2017, Reineh honed his craft across various workshops, absorbing every flicker of knowledge passed down by his father's skilled hands. Yet, amidst the clanging of metal, shadows loomed over his family as many health issues burdened his parents, casting shadows over his aspirations.
Reineh was yearning to take his own path, where he could establish his workshop depending on his father's experience to succeed, but the meager wages he was taking prevented him from saving money to achieve that endeavor.
with support from Hope Center, Reineh was granted all the necessary machines and equipment that enabled him to start his own workshop with resilience and prosperity despite the challenges, the workshop stood as a testament to their unwavering perseverance, offering solace in the middle of instability and promising a better future.
Saadeh Nader, born in 1993, is married and residing in a rented house in Kashkoul with his parents.
Saadeh's professional journey began in the printing industry. Initially working in a print shop in Safita, he later ventured into freelance graphic design, harnessing his skills in graphic design from 2016 to 2020. Despite setbacks, including the closure of his father's marketplace, Saadeh remained resilient.
In 2020, he moved to Damascus and secured employment at Food Products Company, where he honed his graphic design...
Saadeh Nader, born in 1993, is married and residing in a rented house in Kashkoul with his parents.
Saadeh's professional journey began in the printing industry. Initially working in a print shop in Safita, he later ventured into freelance graphic design, harnessing his skills in graphic design from 2016 to 2020. Despite setbacks, including the closure of his father's marketplace, Saadeh remained resilient.
In 2020, he moved to Damascus and secured employment at Food Products Company, where he honed his graphic design skills further.
Despite the challenges that the country was going through which reflected negatively on his financial condition, Saadeh's entrepreneurial spirit remained undeterred. With his expertise in graphic design and printing, he envisioned a printing center that offers a variety of services, from printing cards and documents to thermal printing on magnets and pillows, Saadeh felt that he possessed the technical knowledge needed to manage his own printing center.
He gathered his courage and applied to the Micro-Project program in Damascus. Today, after the fund, Saadeh had his own source of living that helped to improve his conditions, provide a decent livelihood for his parents, and promise him of better livelihood.
Osama Dawod hails from the war-torn region of Al-Zabadani, where destruction marred the landscape, leaving his family's home in ruins, forcing them to leave due to escalating violence, and settle in Bloudan holding onto hope and resilience.
However, despite financial constraints hindering his education, Osama's determination never wavered. He worked tirelessly, learning how to make Western snacks and grilled meals.
During that period, he took on various jobs to support his household, from working as a kitchen assistant to packing relief supplies,...
Osama Dawod hails from the war-torn region of Al-Zabadani, where destruction marred the landscape, leaving his family's home in ruins, forcing them to leave due to escalating violence, and settle in Bloudan holding onto hope and resilience.
However, despite financial constraints hindering his education, Osama's determination never wavered. He worked tirelessly, learning how to make Western snacks and grilled meals.
During that period, he took on various jobs to support his household, from working as a kitchen assistant to packing relief supplies, insisting on preserving a decent livelihood during the terrible years of war.
In 2021, he moved to Damascus, where he worked in a restaurant as a sous chef. However, his aspirations soared beyond the kitchen. With a vision to create a unique snack venture, Osama aspired to establish his own snack bar, offering a variety of sizzling sandwiches on a griddle. His desire for a better future propelled him forward to apply to the Micro-Project Center asking for support.
Today, through his hard work, determination, and unwavering faith, and by the support he had from Hope Center to establish his own project, Osama transformed challenges into opportunities, igniting hope for a brighter tomorrow.
Youssef Halaweh was born in 1989 in Dwalaa, Damascus city, his father, once a photographer, planted in him a passion for artistic expression to become a talented hairdresser.
Youssef's career as a hairstylist began in 2010, initially focusing on women's hairdressing before transitioning to work as a hairstylist for presenters on television channels like Talaqi and Sama. Despite the professional success, his personal life was fraught with difficulty as his mother battled breast cancer and the financial condition of his family...
Youssef Halaweh was born in 1989 in Dwalaa, Damascus city, his father, once a photographer, planted in him a passion for artistic expression to become a talented hairdresser.
Youssef's career as a hairstylist began in 2010, initially focusing on women's hairdressing before transitioning to work as a hairstylist for presenters on television channels like Talaqi and Sama. Despite the professional success, his personal life was fraught with difficulty as his mother battled breast cancer and the financial condition of his family was declining.
In 2016, driven by ambition and seeking new horizons, Youssef ventured to Lebanon. For four years, he plied his career, providing hairstyling services while shouldering the financial burden of his mother's treatment. Amidst the upheaval of the COVID-19 pandemic, he returned to Syria in 2020, where he continued his journey as a hairstylist despite his father's unemployment and his mother's ongoing battle, Youssef remained steadfast in his commitment to his career and his family seeking an opportunity to start his own hairdressing salon where he could be his own boss and has the chance to show his skills and improve his income.
With help from Hope Center, Youssef was able to equip his salon with essential tools and an electricity generator to start a new chapter of his life, full of determination and hope for a better future.
Meneam Salloum's life was marked by hardships but with his strong determination he was able to rise above all the challenges he faced.
he is living in Al-Abbasein with his retired father and two brothers, and together they faced numerous setbacks from losing his mother to grappling with unstable security conditions during the crisis, but he never let circumstances define him.
Before the war started, he was working at his own shoe-making workshop in Jobar, but after few months of the war,...
Meneam Salloum's life was marked by hardships but with his strong determination he was able to rise above all the challenges he faced.
he is living in Al-Abbasein with his retired father and two brothers, and together they faced numerous setbacks from losing his mother to grappling with unstable security conditions during the crisis, but he never let circumstances define him.
Before the war started, he was working at his own shoe-making workshop in Jobar, but after few months of the war, the area was subjected to numerous incidents and his workshop was burgled making him lose everything he worked for in the previous years.
unfortunately, when Meneam decided to move his work to his living area in Al-Abbasein, he was sniped in the flank which put him in bed for several months until he recovered.
after that incident, Meneam decided to quit his profession and started working at cars office and then as a taxi driver, and later becoming a salesperson at shoes store, trying his best to afford the livelihood demands for his family and preserve their dignity.
Despite all financial strains that Meneam and his family faced, Yet he refused to succumb to despair, so he applied for the pick-up project at the Micro Project center.
Receiving funding for his project marked a new chapter—one filled with possibilities. It wasn't merely about starting a business; it symbolized resilience, hope, and the triumph of the human strong will over calamities.
Rafy Al-Sahwy, born in 1982 and residing in Al-Dwalaa, faced numerous challenges in life. With his parents deceased and siblings married, he lived with his brother, striving to make ends meet. His journey through different jobs—from being a taxi driver to a private chauffeur and later distributing charcoal by bicycle—reflects his resilience amidst hardships.
The war and his father's illness forced Rafy to abandon his farming work at the village and return to live with his family in Damascus. Despite various...
Rafy Al-Sahwy, born in 1982 and residing in Al-Dwalaa, faced numerous challenges in life. With his parents deceased and siblings married, he lived with his brother, striving to make ends meet. His journey through different jobs—from being a taxi driver to a private chauffeur and later distributing charcoal by bicycle—reflects his resilience amidst hardships.
The war and his father's illness forced Rafy to abandon his farming work at the village and return to live with his family in Damascus. Despite various setbacks, he ventured into charcoal distribution, utilizing a meager capital. However, soaring prices abruptly halted his work, leaving him with loss.
For Rafy, the taxi project he applied for, symbolized hope and stability in turbulent times, and having support to purchase his own taxi potentially rescued him from the brink of financial ruin.
It wasn't merely about financial gains for him; it was about reclaiming control over his life and promising a brighter tomorrow.
Jean Baghdady, born in 1997, lives with his family in Jaramana. His father, Antoun, works diligently as a maintenance worker at Saint Paul Monastery trying to put food on the table at the end of the day.
Jean's journey through work has been diverse; from volunteering at the UN in 2017 to becoming a photographer's assistant from 2018 until the present day, he has explored various professional avenues. Additionally, he has been employed as a receptionist at Alberto Monastery since 2021....
Jean Baghdady, born in 1997, lives with his family in Jaramana. His father, Antoun, works diligently as a maintenance worker at Saint Paul Monastery trying to put food on the table at the end of the day.
Jean's journey through work has been diverse; from volunteering at the UN in 2017 to becoming a photographer's assistant from 2018 until the present day, he has explored various professional avenues. Additionally, he has been employed as a receptionist at Alberto Monastery since 2021. Despite his workload, Jean managed to pursue accounting and marketing courses in 2019.
He commenced his career as a photographer in 2019, honing his skills and preparing to be an independent photographer full of ambitions to start his business alongside collaborating with other professionals, trying to gain as much experience as possible.
While their household and furnishings are modest, Jean's family supports him as he navigates his career path. Receiving support from Hope Center, marks a turning point for Jean, offering him the opportunity to expand his own business, enhance his skills, and elevate his income.
For Jean, this support isn't just financial aid—it's his life dream, propelling him towards independence and self-improvement to secure a better future for himself and his family.
Raneen Al-Eid is originally from Daraa, her journey took a turn when she shifted to Damascus to pursue her studies in commerce and economics back in 2010. However, her aspirations were rerouted as she got married in 2013.
Her husband worked in a cooling and refrigeration company, and he was trying his best to provide for his family but with the company closure, Raneen and her husband found themselves in the face of financial hardships.
With determination to support her family, Raneen...
Raneen Al-Eid is originally from Daraa, her journey took a turn when she shifted to Damascus to pursue her studies in commerce and economics back in 2010. However, her aspirations were rerouted as she got married in 2013.
Her husband worked in a cooling and refrigeration company, and he was trying his best to provide for his family but with the company closure, Raneen and her husband found themselves in the face of financial hardships.
With determination to support her family, Raneen started working as a saleswoman at a cosmetic store, from 2017 to 2021, during which she curved her skills by undertaking courses on nail care, hairdressing, and makeup at Al-Rida Institute, alongside project management at GOPA.
Unfortunately, Raneen's marriage faced severe storms that ended with separation to find herself living in a room, devoid of even the most basic amenities, with two children under her care.
Raneen's resilience shone through her relentless pursuit of self-improvement amid adversities illustrated by her unwavering spirit and her resolve to provide a better life for her kids propelled her towards a new endeavor; a makeup and nail care corner within her modest home, as soon as the idea took shape in her mind, she applied for support at the Micro Project program.
Today, after being supported to start her own project, Raneen is aware of the challenges and responsibilities ahead, but her spirit remains unyielding, driven by her love for her children and the pursuit of a brighter tomorrow.
Khalil Al-Assaf, 34, carried the weight of responsibilities on his young shoulders, anchored by the memories of his deceased father. His world orbited around his mother, and his siblings: a sister, born in 1986, a school teacher, and a brother, born in 1987, who dedicated himself to volunteer work at the Sacred Hearts.
His journey began during critical conditions as he was called for service in 2010, where he stayed until his discharge in 2020, scarred by shrapnel wounds rendering him...
Khalil Al-Assaf, 34, carried the weight of responsibilities on his young shoulders, anchored by the memories of his deceased father. His world orbited around his mother, and his siblings: a sister, born in 1986, a school teacher, and a brother, born in 1987, who dedicated himself to volunteer work at the Sacred Hearts.
His journey began during critical conditions as he was called for service in 2010, where he stayed until his discharge in 2020, scarred by shrapnel wounds rendering him unfit for any physical jobs.
Khalil started working as a wall painter with his friends but due to the lack of income and his health condition, he quit this career to work as a taxi driver, seeking stability for his family's household.
Undeterred, Khalil spent most of his days behind the wheel of a taxi, yet, the relentless rise in the taxi rental charges kept him incapable of meeting the increasing living expenses.
Full of determination and strong faith, Khalil applied to the Micro Project Program for the taxi, longing for independence through work. Today, after the fund, Khalil is grateful for this opportunity he gained which will preserve his dignity.