Abdullah Hatem, a hardworking 31-year-old with an entrepreneurial mindset, started his journey from a young age. He worked alongside his father, who owned a car mechanic workshop, but Abdullah did not envision himself working in the same field. Instead, he developed a keen interest in the art of garment printing. In 2012, he embarked on his journey and worked towards starting his own project and owning a workshop.

Abdullah's determination and hard work allowed him to save every penny he earned, aiming to purchase his very own shop. Initially, he rented a small space, but through persistent efforts, he eventually managed to buy his own workshop. However, the outbreak of war disrupted his business, causing a significant decline in his income. Additionally, he faced the challenge of acquiring the necessary printing equipment.

Abdullah made investments with a friend in an attempt to increase his income, but unfortunately, it did not yield favorable returns. Faced with these setbacks, he found himself in need of a helping hand to provide the push he required. With the assistance of Hope Center and access to essential equipment and materials, he aimed to boost the productivity and quality of his project. He found solace and guidance, which restored hope and determination to overcome all hardships.

Kevork is a 53-year-old skilled mechanic with over 30 years of experience in car maintenance and mechanics. He used to work in his workshop, which he owned since 2005. However, when the war started, his house in Aleppo was damaged by the ongoing shelling. As a result, he was forced to make the difficult decision of selling the equipment he had acquired through years of hard work and moving to Lebanon with his family.

From 2015 onwards, he resided in Lebanon along with his wife and his two sons. In 2018, he returned to Aleppo. Relying on his years of experience, he was determined to support his family.

Despite the challenges he faced, living with his parents, he remained committed to provide for his loved ones. With the assistance of the Hope Center, Kevork was able to obtain all the essential equipment he needed. With his revived business and experience, he was able to rebuild his thriving business.

Bassil Mssedy, a dedicated father in his 50s, worked as a blacksmith for 15 years in the industrial city of Aleppo. Unfortunately, the aftermath of the war made him jobless. The industrial area, once thriving, now lay in ruins.

Bassil and his wife used to reside in a rented house in Al Midan, an area that was heavily bombarded during the war. Tragedy struck one fateful day when a missile destroyed their home. Miraculously, they had left the house just an hour prior, escaping unharmed. Although relieved that their lives were spared, their house suffered significant damage, so they had to move in with their parents in 2014.

Despite their challenging circumstance and unemployment, Bassil managed to secure a position as a church keeper, working part-time. However, his income was barely sufficient to support his family. His wife worked at the airport to help her husband. Unfortunately, she also battled diabetes, adding further strain to their finances due to medical expenses.

Ensuring their basic needs became a daily challenge, as putting food on the table proved to be a constant struggle. They heavily relied on food baskets and cash aids to make ends meet. 

In the depths of despair, Bassil was filled with hope when he received assistance from the Hope Center. With the new taxi he received, he was able to increase his resilience and income, which brought stability to his life.

George Tabbakh is a skilled CNC machinist with 15 years of experience. He began his career in 1997 until 2002 when he decided to start his own business and invest in a metal lathing machine. George has always had a passion for personal development and enjoys immersing himself in new learning experiences. Aware of the potential of 3D printing and mechanical drawing, he attended numerous workshops and courses to enhance his skills with software like SolidWorks.

In 2008, George purchased his own 3D printer. Things were going well until the outbreak of war significantly impacted his business. Faced with financial challenges and a scarcity of jobs, George was forced to sell his equipment. However, in 2015, he resolved to rebuild his career and opened a new shop with the hope of reestablishing his work.

George encountered a multitude of difficulties and challenges. Despite working tirelessly to increase his income, the majority of his earnings were consumed by electricity bills, leaving little to provide for his family of three. His work particularly suffered from the absence of a CNC machine. Whenever a customer requested a small sample, George had to rely on others who owned such machines, often waiting for a month just to receive a sample due to the machine's scarcity in the city.

George and his wife made the conscious decision to stay in Aleppo, despite numerous opportunities to relocate. His wife also contributes to the family's income, supporting her husband through these challenging times. While they have hopes for better prospects in Syria, they are concerned about the low salaries and inflation.

With the support of hope centers, George finally obtained the necessary equipment for his job. The availability of the CNC machine has been a game-changer for his business, allowing him to produce samples quickly and efficiently. George remains dedicated to his craft, determined to make the most of this newfound opportunity to improve his financial situation and provide for his family.

Vahe Tashjian is a 56-year-old mechanic with 23 years of experience. In his younger years, he worked in Kuwait, but he later moved to Aleppo, where he found employment in various companies. Unfortunately, due to the outbreak of war, the companies closed down, leaving him jobless. 

Vahe has always dreamt of owning his own workshop, but his previous attempts were unsuccessful due to the need for financial resources, in 2022, he briefly went to Dubai but got very ill. In less than a year, Vahe returned to Aleppo with great hopes and determination to establish his livelihood. Given his extensive experience, he no longer wanted to work as an employee. 

Luckily, through a friend, he managed to secure a temporary workshop without having to pay rent. As Vahe took his first steps in this new workspace, the recent earthquake impacting the already struggling job market and resulted in a severe decline in customers. This situation left him with no choice but to take matters into his own hands. In order to cut costs, he had to let go of his workers and do the hard physical work himself, which put strain on his health.

 After receiving approval for his project, Vahe felt a sense of relief. He could now bring back his dedicated workers and once again immerse himself in the job he loved. No longer needing to rely on borrowed equipment from others, Vahe was finally able to invest in his own tools and resources. He could provide for his family and generate a more substantial income.

Aziz is a determined young man, recently married to Rasha and waiting for their first born child.

He worked as a driver since 2009 and continued working in this job during his ten-years military service in Damascus, Rasha works as a nurse in a hospital and they live in a modest rented house. 

During his service aziz was injured in the leg then he was discharged and he started looking for a job to secure his life and future. His parents decided to travel and leave the country but Aziz decided to stay and he started looking for a job to secure his life; he started working night shifts at a beverage shop in a local neighborhood but the salary was low and the job included many troubles so he kept his faith and determined to search for a solution to enhance his situation. 

After getting married, Aziz responsibilities got bigger and he found the micro program as the best opportunity to get back to his original career as a driver, with the support he got the taxi and he can now improve his income and provide a good life for his wife and awaited child. 

Antoine had a good life before the war working as a hairdresser with great skill and many customers, in 2013 he was called for military service and had to serve for nine long years in Aleppo's suburbs which affected his health greatly as he was subject to many injuries from explosions.

Antoine suffered from a neurological condition that caused trembling in his hands and he no longer was able to continue in his original career of hairstyling, even grabbing the scissors became the most difficult task for him.

However, he didn't surrender and was determined to find a way to secure his livelihood especially that he is the breadwinner of the household that he shares with his parents and he looks after them; the family had to sell their house in Midan area after the brother was called to service so they can afford the increasing livelihood expenses.

He started working in a blacksmithing workshop but the income was insufficient and it demanded a lot of physical effort. With the support of the Micro Projects program, Antoine got a taxi that would help him make a better living and at the same time it is the most suitable job for his health condition, hopefully it will be the start of a better days to come for him and his loved ones. 

Haytham's journey in the world of tailoring began in 1988, Aleppo, During the war Haytham faced a great loss when his workshop in Shekh Maksoud was completely destroyed and all of his sewing machines and tools were stolen. He used to work alongside his brother for a short period of time, but circumstances led them to separate and focus on their individual projects. Haytham received his share of the profits, which he had planned for his own project, but instead, his wife got very sick so he had to use the money for her surgery. Unfortunately, destiny had a cruel twist in store for him as his beloved wife passed away after a heart surgery in 2014, leaving him devastated and alone.

In Haytham's time of despair, a friend suggested that he rent a workshop. Thankfully, the owners were understanding and charged him a minimal amount of rent, which was a relief considering the financial burden Haytham was already facing. However, there were additional expenses that Haytham had to bear, especially the high monthly private electricity bills. Most of his hard-earned income seemed to disappear into these bills, leaving him with little income to support himself.

Recently, Haytham received devastating news that the owners of the workshop were planning to sell the workshop, without even considering the impact it would have on him and on his son George. Determined not to let this happen, Haytham made the decision to upgrade the workshop in an attempt to prevent the owners from selling it. He planned to replace the outdated sewing machines with new ones that consumed only less electricity. This upgrade would not only modernize his workshop but also significantly reduce the electricity consumption.

With over 35 years of experience, Haytham has mastered the art of creating a wide variety of cotton-wear clothing, to both men and women, including pajamas and robes. As for his personal life, he and his son George live in a rented house. However, Haytham strives to provide the best life possible for his son and wishes to ensure a stable and successful future for him. Haytham's determination and drive are truly admirable. Growing up as an orphan, he experienced hardships at a very young age; however, his determination and passion for his craft have always been the driving forces in his life. Today, with the new machines and support from the Hope Center that Haytham has received, he has overcome challenges and secured a better future for himself and his beloved son, George.

Antoine is 28 years old, married and a father of a 1 year old lovely boy, he has served in the military for almost the last ten years of his life which has robbed him of any opportunity to pursue a career and build a future for his family.

with no experience and a very harsh economic situation of the country, Antoine put a lot of thinking of his next step in life, he looked for any job that would help him provide a decent life for his wife and newborn son, he started working in a soap factory but the salary is very low and not sufficient to make ends meet. 

The earthquake had a huge impact on this family, they lived in fear and were affected by the damages, the church helped them and continues to deliver a small monthly aid, unfortunately the situation is deteriorating with the inflation and the increasing living costs. 

Antoine found hope in the Micro Projects program when he applied for a taxi as it doesn't require a former experience and at the same time he can work long hours and make a better income to improve the livelihood of his loved ones. 

Salem Kadah, a 40-year-old tailor, chose to follow in his father's footsteps and become a tailor himself. Before the war, he worked alongside his father. However, after his father passed away in 2003, Salem forged his own path and began working in jeans production, distributing products to high-end brands. Unfortunately, due to the outbreak of war, his business was disrupted, which forced him to look for alternative sources of income.

In 2016-2017, Salem attempted to revive jeans production but faced significant challenges due to low-profit margins. Consequently, he shifted his focus to tailoring and repairing clothes, utilizing his father's shop. Unfortunately, outdated sewing machines consumed substantial amounts of electricity, the cost of electricity bills was eating into his already modest income.

Despite the difficult circumstances during the war when work opportunities were scarce, Salem always found a way to make ends meet and worked tirelessly; however, minimal income broke his thrive.

Today, with the support he received and his unwavering dedication, Salem now feels confident that his hardships will no longer go to waste on excessive bills. His wife also works and supports him, while together, they provide for their family. Salem seeks to upgrade his workshop, aiming to increase his income by expanding production rather than solely relying on clothes repair.

Upgrading his machinery will undoubtedly lower electricity consumption and save time and effort. Today with the support of Hope Center Salem's 20 years of experience and hard work have not been in vain. With renewed hope, he aspires to resume his job and provide good living for his family.

Mardiros a young barber with seven years of experience, he lives with his mother and bears the sole responsibility of being the family's breadwinner. As a talent in his craft, Mardiros was longing for the security and independence that came with owning his own barbershop. However, the lack of supportive environment and economic challenges of the country left him hesitant to take the leap. He meticulously calculated every aspect, and despite numerous attempts, he remained doubtful as it posed a significant risk.

Having endured the frustration of earning minimum salaries while working for others, Mardiros knew he needed his own equipment to establish his resilience. Mardiros had an idea to minimize the cost of rent, Mardiros's current barbershop decided to offer him the opportunity to rent a chair in their salon for his own customers. This arrangement enabled him to reduce rental expenses while still generating a steady source of income.

With the approval from the Hope Center, Mardiros received an incredible boost in confidence and support. Finally, he could embark on his journey towards independence. The burst of hope and opportunity provided by the Hope Center gave Mardiros the courage to chase his dreams, ensuring a brighter future for himself and his family. 

Nancy Samaan, an ambitious young girl from Tartous, graduated from the Faculty of Fine Arts and later relocated with her family to Aleppo. Nancy always had a clear vision of her passion for graphic design and poured her heart and soul into her work.

At a young age, in 2018, Nancy started her career as a graphic designer. However, she soon realized that her previous job didn't provide the opportunities she needed to improve her skills and profession. Determined to grow, she embarked on a new job that allowed her to explore photography, expanding her abilities and opening up diverse avenues in graphic design. She delved into areas like social media content creation and product advertisement.

After gaining five years of experience in the field, Nancy desired to work independently, driven by her longing for financial independence. She planned to achieve her goals step by step and began by building an impressive portfolio of her work, which earned her positive feedback from customers who admired her talent and expressed a desire to collaborate. Nancy leveraged social media platforms to showcase her work and gain recognition in the job market. With unwavering confidence and fearlessness, Nancy's ultimate dream career was to become an interior designer.

However, the unavailability of a laptop became the only obstacle hindering her success; One day, while working from home, Nancy's laptop suddenly stopped functioning due to a surge in electricity, resulting in the loss of all her files and documents.

Standing as Nancy's number one supporter, her mother is immensely proud of her daughter's determination and unwavering belief in her abilities. With the support she received from the CHC team, Nancy regained her confidence with her new laptop and took the first step towards realizing her dream and unleashing her boundless creativity to pursue a fulfilling career.

Hussam's hands were steady as he carefully placed each piece of stone, marble, and ceramic cladding. It was a skill he had inherited from his late father, who had dedicated his life to this craft. From an early age, Hussam had learned the artistry and precision required to create stunning designs.

After his father's untimely passing in 1997, Hussam took up the reins of the family business. He poured his heart and soul into his work, mastering every technique and ensuring that the legacy of his father lived on. For years, he worked side by side with his father's trusted tools, carrying on the tradition that had been passed down through generations.

But life had other plans for Hussam. In 2017, he was struck by heart disease, a cruel blow that threatened to shatter his dreams. The expensive treatment forced him to make a heart-wrenching decision: he sold his beloved equipment to cover the medical costs that were mounting against him.

After his health improved in 2018, he borrowed equipment from his kind-hearted friends, who understood his passion and desire to provide for his family. Once again, he delved into his craft, pouring his soul into every project he undertook.

However, fate dealt him another blow in July 2022, when his heart troubles resurfaced. A second cardiac catheterization was needed, and while his health stabilized, his friends were no longer able to lend him the equipment. Hussam was left in a state of uncertainty, unsure of how to support his wife and two children.

Hussam turned to the Micro Projects Program. He submitted his application, detailing his situation and explaining how the program could be a lifeline for his family. With the aid of the program, Hussam hoped to acquire the essential equipment that would allow him to once again work independently, relying on his own efforts to provide for his loved ones.

Months passed, and finally, the day arrived when he received the long-awaited news. The Micro Projects Program had approved his application, granting him the opportunity to enhance his livelihood.

With gratitude in his heart, Hussam acquired the necessary equipment. The income he will generate, will bring stability and hope back into his household, ensuring that his wife and children had a better life.

Saadallah's life had been marked by a series of hardships and losses. In 2013, he was compelled to begin his mandatory military service, a nine-year commitment that consumed his prime years. During this time, tragedy struck when his brother lost his life in the war in 2016. As if losing his brother wasn't devastating enough, their family home in Al-Hamidia neighborhood was destroyed, leaving Saadallah, his wife Natalie, and their twin daughters, Maryam and Maya, without a place to call their own. So, they moved to Fairouza village where they rented an apartment.

Despite the challenges, he remained determined to provide for his family. Since 2006, he had worked as a floor tiler, but his limited access to proper tools hindered his progress. Without the necessary equipment, he always had to rely on others, preventing him from working independently.

In an effort to improve his situation, Saadallah applied to the Micro Projects Program, seeking assistance to acquire all the essential equipment, including an electric bike that would significantly ease his transportation and the movement of his equipment and an electric generator.

When the news arrived that his application had been accepted, his spirit soared with hope. Equipped with the necessary tools, the electric generator, and the electric bike, he could take on more projects, complete them efficiently, and increase his income. This new independence would not only secure a brighter future for his family but also help him reclaim the years he lost during his military service. 

Ammar's life took an unexpected turn when his father passed away, leaving him as the sole provider for his mother and younger siblings. Residing in Fairouza village, he embraced his new responsibilities with determination and love.

However, life had other plans for him. He was obliged to complete a mandatory military service that spanned from 2014 to 2020, putting his dreams on hold. After his discharge, he found himself working as an employee, earning a modest salary to support his family. Although he held a bachelor's degree in law, circumstances had prevented him from pursuing a career in his chosen field.

He faced a dilemma. He lacked experience in any craft or profession, limiting his employment opportunities. It was then that he learned about the Micro Projects Program, a beacon of hope in his challenging journey. He saw a chance to create a better future for his family.

Ammar submitted an application to the program, seeking assistance to acquire a mini pick-up truck. This vehicle would serve as the foundation for his new venture, transporting goods and building a sustainable source of income.

The Micro Projects Program approved his application and provided him with support to purchase the mini pick-up truck. Equipped with his vehicle, Ammar began his entrepreneurial journey, serving the local community by delivering goods efficiently and reliably.

Through hard work, perseverance, and the support of his loving family, his business thrived. The income generated from his transportation services not only fulfilled the immediate needs of his family but also allowed his younger siblings to pursue their university education without financial worries.

George made a bold move when he decided to change his career and open an accessories and cosmetics shop. With eight years of experience in mobile phone maintenance, he believed he had the skills to venture into a new business. Little did he know that his journey would be filled with challenges.

In 2019, his new shop flourished, attracting customers with its diverse range of products. However, the tide soon changed with severe inflation and skyrocketing rental costs. He struggled to keep up with the expenses and found it increasingly difficult to replenish his shop's inventory.

Realizing the dire situation he was facing, George sought a solution to save his only source of livelihood. He applied to the Micro Projects Program, hoping for assistance and support. 

With the provided help, George managed to revitalize his struggling shop. He was able to restock his inventory, ensuring a wide range of accessories and cosmetics for his customers. 

His business gradually regained its momentum. The support he received not only strengthened his shop but also instilled a newfound hope in him. As his engagement and wedding plans loomed, George was grateful for the Micro Projects Program, which not only secured his mother's and his future but also ensured a stable foundation for his upcoming family.

Fadi, a dedicated farmer and hardworking father, faced a significant challenge in his pursuit of providing for his family. Living in the village of Maskanah, he resided with his beloved wife Riham and their two young sons, Mikhail and Danial. With dreams of a prosperous future, he relied on his farming skills to support his family while also working as a driver in the nearby industrial area.

His agricultural endeavors were centered around his cherished land, adorned with grapevines, olive, and almond trees. These crops held the promise of a bountiful harvest, but their success relied heavily on proper care and regular irrigation. Unfortunately, Fadi's limited financial means prevented him from constructing a crucial water pond essential for storing the necessary water supply.

In 2021, he valiantly began digging the foundation for the water pond on his land, hoping to secure his family's future. However, the lack of financial resources halted his progress, leaving the pond unfinished and his crops at risk. As the scorching summer approached, he grew increasingly worried about the impending drought and the potential devastation it could bring to his beloved grapevines and olive trees.

Determined not to let adversity hinder his dreams, Fadi made a bold decision and applied to the Micro Projects Program. After he heard that this program aimed to empower individuals like him by providing the necessary assistance to continue their projects and improve their livelihoods. Filled with hope, he awaited the response, yearning for a chance to secure the resources needed to complete the water pond and save his crops from the impending dry spell.

The Micro Projects Program approved his application, offering the needed help to continue his project. With the newfound support, Fadi was finally able to complete the construction of the water pond, ensuring a sufficient water supply to nourish his land and safeguard his crops during the sweltering summer months.

Fadi's perseverance paid off, as his grapevines, olive trees, and almond groves flourished under the care of the water pond. The once-barren land transformed into a thriving oasis, providing a stable income for Fadi and his family. With their newfound prosperity, Fadi and Riham could offer their sons a brighter future, filled with hope and opportunities.

Inaam, a married woman and a mother of two university students, has been diligently working as a seamstress since 1995. Despite her efforts, she knew she needed to do more to support her family. In 2000, she took up additional employment to improve her income. Inaam's husband, a retired engineer, suffered from heart disease, adding to their financial burdens.

In 2022, determined to create a better future, she took a leap of faith and opened her own workshop in a rented space. However, she faced a hurdle, the lack of essential machines that were necessary to develop her project. Inaam applied to the Micro Projects Program, seeking assistance. 

Fortunately, her plea for support was heard, and she was granted the necessary support to acquire the required machines. With her newfound equipment, her workshop flourished. Her income improved significantly, providing stability and a brighter future for her family. Through sheer determination and the help of the Micro Projects Program, Inaam transformed her humble sewing workshop into a thriving small business, ensuring a better life for herself, her husband, and their two university-going sons.

Fadi, a talented hair stylist, had dedicated a decade of his life perfecting his craft. He gained valuable experience by successfully managing a hair salon in Lebanon, despite his young age. However, the worsening situation in the country forced him to return to his homeland of Syria. Determined to continue pursuing his passion, he settled in Homs and decided to open his own hair salon.

With the money he had managed to save over the years, he eagerly invested in his dream. He purchased all the necessary equipment and supplies to create a welcoming and professional environment for his clients. Excitement filled his heart as he prepared to bring his skills to the community.

However, Fadi soon faced an unexpected obstacle, the constant electricity shortages; the rationing measures resulted in long blackouts, severely affecting his ability to operate his salon smoothly. Clients grew frustrated, and his hard work began to crumble under the weight of the power crisis.

Being the sole provider for his mother, he felt the burden of the situation more intensely. He needed a solution, but his savings had been entirely spent on setting up the salon, leaving him unable to afford an electric generator.

In a moment of hope, Fadi turned to the Micro Projects Program, seeing it as a potential lifeline for his struggling business. He applied, pouring his heart into explaining the challenges he faced and the positive impact a generator would have on his salon. He knew that having a reliable source of electricity would not only benefit his own livelihood but also provide stability for his employees, who had been tirelessly supporting him.

Days turned into weeks, and Fadi waited for a response. Finally, he received the news he had been longing for, his application had been approved. Overwhelmed with gratitude, he couldn't believe that he would soon receive the needed electric generator.

With the generator in place, Fadi's salon regained its former glory. The lights sparkled brightly, and the hair dryers hummed with renewed vigor. Clients flocked back, impressed by his resilience and determination to overcome the challenges that came his way.

Nouha, a resilient young woman hailing from Homs, Al-Hamidia neighborhood, found her life forever altered when the war erupted in 2011. As the conflict escalated, forcing her family to seek safety in a village called Mouzeina, her dreams of education were abruptly halted and she got married there in 2015. The subsequent years brought a series of challenges, but her determination and passion for the beauty field would eventually guide her towards a path of independence and hope.

In the village, she honed her skills in nail care and began offering services from the comfort of her own home. For five years, she diligently catered to her clients. However, as life often presents unexpected challenges, Nouha's marital problems became a heavy burden to bear. Eventually, she found herself separated from her husband, carrying the weight of responsibilities alone.

Returning to Homs city with her young daughter Angela in 2021, Nouha sought refuge within the embrace of her family. Together with her parents and brother, they formed a close-knit unit that provided love and support during this difficult time. To sustain herself and her daughter, she found work at the local church, supplementing her income as a nail care specialist.

She borrowed essential tools, such as a UV device and an electric file, from her sister's now-closed salon to continue her work and found an opportunity at a well-known salon. However, she didn’t have access to all the necessary equipment, which would help her establish a thriving career and grant her financial independence so she applied to the Micro Projects Program.

This initiative offered her the chance to pursue her dreams and build a better future for herself and her daughter. With the support, she acquired the essential equipment needed to continue working and improving her income, giving her the chance to provide a dignified life for Angela.

Rafik's life had been filled with hardships and challenges. He had lost nine precious years of his youth serving in the mandatory military service, which left him with no work experience or opportunities in any field. His family, originally from Al-Qaryatayn, had experienced the horrors of war firsthand. Their house had been reduced to rubble, and they were forced to flee to Fairouza, where they sought refuge.

To add to their misfortunes, his father and one of his brothers had been kidnapped for a harrowing four months. Thankfully, they were eventually set free, but the ordeal left deep scars on the family.

After completing his military service, he found work as a construction worker, earning a modest income. However, he longed for a sustainable and independent means of livelihood. With this hope in mind, he applied to the Micro Projects Program for a mini pick-up truck. 

Through the program, Rafik was able to secure support to launch his own project. With determination and hard work, he began building his dream alongside the woman he loves, who he is now engaged to. Their plan to establish their own family became more feasible, as Rafik's project promised a better future and a stable income.

Layal's life has been a series of challenges, but her determination and passion for the beauty industry have never wavered. For over six years, she has developed her skills in the beauty field, working tirelessly from her home in the Al-Arman neighborhood. Recently, she ventured into nail care and eyebrows tattoo, seeking to expand her expertise.

Despite limited resources, she managed to save up enough money to purchase some essential tools and materials for her business, including a UV device and an electric file. However, her dreams of fully equipping her beauty studio were hampered by financial constraints. As a single mother of two daughters, living with her parents after her separation from her husband, Layal faced numerous obstacles.

Determined to overcome these hardships, she applied to the Micro Projects Program, seeking support to acquire the remaining tools and materials necessary to enhance and expand her project. With the essential kit, she knew she could continue her journey and improve her services. Layal's ultimate goal is to establish her own beauty center in the future, providing a wide range of beauty services to her clients.

With the support of the Micro Projects Program, she hopes to turn her small room in her parents' house into a thriving beauty studio, paving the way for a brighter future for herself and her daughters.

Rami's life revolved around his aluminum workshop, a place where he poured his heart and soul for 15 long years. With each passing year, his skills grew, and his reputation as a skilled craftsman spread throughout the town. However, his dreams were suddenly shattered when severe electricity shortage crippled his ability to work efficiently.

The power cuts were relentless, leaving him with limited working hours and hindering his progress. To add to his troubles, some of his equipment needed renovation. Determined not to let adversity bring him down, he decided to seek help from the Micro Projects Program.

His wife, Randa, was a dedicated school teacher in Fairouza village. Together, they rented a modest apartment and were blessed with a precious 5-year-old son named Elie. Their lives were simple but filled with love and hope. However, the war brought unexpected destruction, rendering their family house in Al-Hamidia uninhabitable. Forced to leave their memories behind, Rami, Randa, and Elie sought refuge in Fairouza village. It was a fresh start, a chance to rebuild their lives.

Rami's journey in the aluminum profession began in 1995 when he embarked on the path of learning. Years of dedication and hard work led him to open his first workshop in 2007. Despite the challenges, he never lost sight of his dreams.

One remarkable skill Rami possessed was his ability to design using specialized software. With this tool, he could bring his clients' visions to life before executing them. His designs were a testament to his creativity and attention to detail, making him stand out among his peers.

The Micro Projects Program approved his application for an electric generator and essential equipment. The news brought joy and renewed hope for Rami and his family. Now, Rami could overcome the electricity rationing and breathe new life into his workshop.

As the generator hummed to life, his aluminum workshop regained productivity. With renewed energy and upgraded equipment, he worked tirelessly to fulfill his clients' demands. The orders poured in, and Rami's craftsmanship flourished once again.

Youssef, a hardworking farmer from Al-Maamoura village, had always strived to provide for his family. With a wife and a beautiful four-year-old daughter, he cherished every moment spent with them. However, life became more challenging when his brother had to leave for Lebanon to find work, leaving behind his wife and her two children under Youssef's care.

Youssef and his six brothers were fortunate to inherit their father's vast and fertile land, which was adorned with almond, olive, and grape trees. These trees held the promise of a bountiful harvest, but the lack of a reliable water source posed a significant obstacle. Youssef had been renting a water tanker to irrigate the trees, which had become a considerable financial burden over time. His dream of nurturing his family and providing for their needs seemed distant.

Determined to find a solution, he applied to the Micro Projects Program for assistance. Recognizing the importance of well-watered trees for increased productivity, he sought a water tanker that would alleviate the burden of renting one. With his own tractor ready to be used, the tanker was the missing piece in his irrigation system. It would ensure the trees received the optimal amount of water, enabling them to thrive and bear plentiful fruits.

But the significance of the water tanker extended beyond the land. His family, including his sister-in-law and her children, also relied on it for their daily drinking water needs. Clean water was essential for them, and the tanker would enable them to access it conveniently.

Days turned into weeks, and he awaited a response from the Micro Projects Program. Finally, the good news arrived, his application had been approved. Overwhelmed with gratitude, he received the water tanker.

With the tanker now at his disposal, Youssef could efficiently irrigate his trees, ensuring their strength and productivity. Additionally, clean drinking water flowed into his household, bringing peace of mind and improved living conditions for everyone.

No matter how harsh and difficult the conditions are, there is nothing more difficult than the bitterness of death.

This is what the twenty-three-year-old Naya Al-Freijat believes, who experienced death in its worst forms; in 2016, during the brutal wartime, her older brother Yazan was working at Al-Badia Cement Factory in Dumayr, when the armed groups attacked the area, and when they knew that Yazan was Christian, they executed him.

The impact of this tragedy was devastating for Naya and her family, especially her father, who could not handle the loss of his son in such a horrible way and was subjected to a severe shock that led to his death.

Naya's mother also suffered from severe psychological trauma after losing her son and husband and her health started to deteriorate as she had diabetes and high blood pressure.

In the face of all these tragedies, Naya and her sisters suddenly found themselves heartbroken and lonely without a supporter. They had to take care of their sick mother and younger sister Hanin who was still in school so they decided to study and work, Marwa graduated from the faculty of pharmacy and started working as a trainer and Naya graduated from the technical arts institute with a specialization in photography and started working as a photographer.

She had practical experience for two years that enhanced her skills in taking photos in addition to learning the Photoshop program, and when she started to have external photography requests, she would borrow a camera from her friend or from the center in which she works.

Naya has always wished to have her own camera so that she could have more work and increase her income, but the harsh circumstances she has been through made that dream impossible.

" Nothing is impossible with God " Luke 1;37

through the Micro-project initiative, Naya was funded to have her own camera and equipment that will allow her to receive more customers requests which will improve the conditions of the family and now she dreams that this camera will be the first step to success in her life and to have her own business "Naya Photography”.

Starting from scratch is always difficult, especially during wartime, while being responsible for little kids, and not knowing how to keep them safe and secure.

That’s how Norma Elias 44, expressed her journey during the years of war. She is married to Ziad Alhomsi and they have three children Lady 2001, Elias 2004, and Larita 2009. 

Her husband used to have his own workshop in Aldekhanieh area, Damascus suburbs, and his income was good enough to provide the livelihood demands of the family.

However, Aldekhanieh was among the areas that were affected by the war calamities as it was hit daily by many shells, which forced Norma’s husband to flee leaving everything behind, and he never had the chance to restore any of his machines or equipment. That year in 2014, Norma and her husband lost their source of income. Her husband returned to be a worker and Norma didn’t hesitate to support him so she took some courses in handicrafts and cooking at the church and then started to work from home and help with the living expenses.

Soon after, she began to rent tables at the church exhibitions to display her products which were quite profitable at the time but during the last few years, the economic situation had a devastating impact on all people including Norma and her family as she became unable to buy the materials necessary for her work and at the same time her husband income couldn't meet the living demands so she decided to apply at the micro-project for support.

Now after having all the required tools and materials, Norma is preparing beautiful handicrafts for Christmas with all hope that her business will thrive and she will be able to help her family and improve their condition. 

While retiring can be a reward for years of hard work, Hussam Maroni 60 years old, found it very difficult for him after thirty years of working to be jobless with no proper income.

He is married to Mouna Qarrout and have adorable three daughters Zoya, Jessica, and Solin, and for most of his life, he was doing his best to secure a decent living for his family and provide them with love and care.

Hussam is an agriculture engineer who worked at a governmental agricultural institution from 1990 until his retirement in 2021. He tried to afford the living expenses and his daughters’ education because he wanted them to be independent and educated women to depend on themselves in the face of the difficult circumstances. 

Indeed, he gained what he sought, as his daughter Zoya has graduated from Pharmacy college and started working and his other daughters are also advanced in their studies. However, life isn’t always fair as the health of his wife Mouna, started to deteriorate and she was diagnosed with breast cancer, she went through chemotherapy and had to undergo surgery to remove the tumor.

Hussam and his daughters lived a great depression and were trying as much as possible to empower her to overcome her disease and were praying to God to cure her.

During that period, Hussam was seeking to work and cope with the living difficulties and challenges since he is responsible for his wife’s medication and his daughters’ education so he applied to the micro project program for an agriculture store where he could apply his strong experience, and at the same time have a sustainable and proper income for his family’s future.

Rana Nofal is a hardworking mother, who dedicated her entire life to keeping her family united and secured.

She is 40 years old, divorced, and a mother of four sons; Joseph born in 2003, Tony 2006, Johnny 2009 and Ward in 2014. 

Although Rana didn’t have a good marriage experience, she handled all the difficulties and abuse for the sake of her sons and didn’t hesitate to work and support herself and her husband with the living expenses but her husband kept pushing and forced her to take medicines that led to having a hysterectomy and many health issues so she decided to ask for a divorce and move to live alone.

After that, Rana rented a small room in Jaramana close to her parents and her eldest son Joseph moved to live with her. Together, Rana and Joseph started working and taking care of each other with the living expenses, but she wanted her son to continue his education so she was seeking a job that will enable her to handle all the living demands.

However, despite all that she had been through and her deteriorating health,Rana kept a strong faith that tomorrow will be better, so she gathered her strength and visited our office to apply for a mini-market project and didn’t hesitate to attend a business management course that we offered to empower herself and her project.

After being funded with the mini market project, Rana is full of hope that this project is the first step to having a good income and improve her situation and reunite her children again.

The year 2013 was a turning point in the life of Maaloula’s citizens, this ancient Christian village in the countryside of Damascus was attacked by the armed groups who destroyed most of the town’s historic homes, churches, and monasteries in addition to the looting, kidnapping and killing incidents which forced its people to flee.

Among them was Milad Zakhem and his family, they only had a few minutes to decide between fleeing or being killed which prevented them from taking any of their possessions or belonging.

Milad and his family moved to Jaramana where they rented a small house and found themselves starting from scratch which forced Milad (who was at the age of 19) to work and support his family instead of completing his education.

He started to work at an elevator maintenance office and soon after he learned the profession without the need of a supervisor. Milad was working long hours and gaining experience hoping that one day he will have his own workshop but living expenses were increasing year after year and his father started to suffer from heart disease and needed to undergo surgery which cost a lot of money.

Sorrowfully, a few months after his father’s recovery, he was hit by a motorcycle in the neighborhood and died which was a great loss for the family. Milad became responsible for his mother and sister and was doing his best to secure a decent living for them, but no matter how hard he worked the salary was a lot less than his expenses.

He wanted to establish his workshop so he applied to the Micro-project holding great faith in his heart and he was funded with all the equipment, tools, and electric generator that allowed him to start his own workshop hoping to improve his situation and establish a better future.  

Nuha Noah is married to Mersel Atta, and has three children Elias 22, Sharbel 20, and Taqla 17.

Before the war, they were lived in Shaqra village in Daraa governorate, Nuha worked as an assistant midwife, her husband was a government employee and their situation was stable.

However, after the start of the war, the village was surrounded by armed groups who terrified the people and spread violence, then they entered Nuha’s house and took her husband and son as hostages where they were exposed to beating and humiliation and then released after taking their car in 2013. After this incident, Nuha and her family fled from the village and lived at her in-laws house in Dwalaa trying to get over what they've been through and start from scratch to restore what the war took from them.

Nuha started to work as a teacher at a kindergarten and supported her children to continue their education but unfortunately in 2019, she was diagnosed with spinal cord cancer and had to undergo surgery and radiology sessions which weakened her body and forced her to quit her job at the kindergarten.

Thanks to God, Nuha got better and she never hesitated with her strong will to help her family as their financial situation was deteriorating quickly. she was unable to return to her previous job and needed to have a project of her own where she can manage her work without affecting her health, so she applied to the Micro project program for the mini-market project and took a business management course to improve her knowledge.

Funding Nuha with the mini-market will not just help in providing the family with better income, but it will also help in proving that nothing can stop in the way of this fighting mother who is willing to defy all difficulties for the sake of her family.

Hussam Jarrouj is 30 years old, married to Abeer Mesherqi and they have a toddler daughter called Joule born in 2021, they live at his in-laws’ house in Kashkoul, Damascus suburbs.

Hussam graduated from the faculty of agriculture engineering and started working in the city of Homs until the year 2015 when the situation deteriorated in the city and it was not safe to stay and work there, so he moved to the city of Damascus where he worked in a restaurant for about a year and decided to travel to Lebanon in 2017 where he worked as a salesman in an electronic device store, and stayed there for three years.

Hussam  returned to Syria and was hired as a salesman in a company but after about two years he decided to quit because the income was low so he rented a pick-up car and began to tour between stores and areas selling goods and products. His income was getting better and he started to build a strong base of relationships between traders and buyers, but the car rent was rising and soon he found himself paying half of his income to the car owner.

Hussam’s financial situation was deteriorating, so he applied for the pickup car at the Micro-project program and didn’t hesitate to take a business management course.

After being funded, Hussam is enthusiastic about the upcoming days and planning to increase his customers and get the best benefits from his project, which will definitely improve his living conditions.

It is a great blessing to reach your sixties and still have the determination of youth to work with great confidence and belief that the Lord supports you in all your life circumstances.

This is what you feel after meeting with Alice Khoury, with her deep wrinkles and crutch that never leaves her. She always was full of strength to work and rely on herself to support her family.

In 2000, Alice and her husband Antoun started a small grocery shop from their savings, and they worked hand to hand in order to secure their expenses and raise their only daughter in good living conditions. Even in difficult times, the couple did not give up on their project and did their best to continue working and living. 

However, in the years of war, they suffered a lot from mortar shells that were raining on them in Bab Sharqi area as their house and shop were damaged many times but they never lost hope and kept fighting against the obstacles.

Unfortunately, two years ago, her husband was diagnosed with leukemia, and he began the long and painful treatment journey, which cost the couple twenty years of savings, in addition to selling most of the goods to pay for chemotherapy sessions and long-term treatment.

Alice stood by her husband in his illness and when he started to recover, she wanted to keep working but their mini-market was empty so she applied to the Micro projects to support her small grocery shop with goods and other products so that she could secure the daily food and a decent life.

Christine Fanouneh is 39 years old, she lives with her mother and brother in Jaramana, Damascus suburbs.

During her childhood, Christine lived in a very harmful environment as her father used to abuse her mother on daily basis in front of her and her sister, her brother was born with Down’s syndrome in addition to many health problems which made him in a continuous of medication and lots of love, care, and attention that the family was missing.

When Christine and her sister became adults, they stood in the face of their father defending their mother which angered him so he kicked them out of the house. Christine didn’t sit around feeling sorry for herself, on the contrary, she started working as a seamstress assistant and took care of the house expenses and her brother's medicine costs.

In 2009, Christine decided to start a job at a telecommunications company where she could meet people and have a social life until 2019 when she volunteered at the GOPA DERD organization.

During those years she kept working in sewing as a part-time job and managed to continue her education and graduate from the faculty of English literature.

Unfortunately, the health condition of her brother Elias was deteriorating and he needed intensive care that her mother couldn’t handle alone as she was not in a good mental situation and suffering from a lack of concentration due to the severe abuse that she was exposed to during her life with her husband, which forced Christine to miss many work days so she can be with her mom and brother.

Christine realized that she needs a job where she could manage her time and look after her family at the same time. She found her way to the micro-projects initiative and applied for a sewing machines, tools, and equipment that will enable her to have a new start in this field hoping that this opportunity will help her provide a proper income to look after her family.

Elie Istanboly, 30 years old, is like many young men of his age who had to spend years of the war facing dangers and horrors during their military service, and in Elie's case, it took nine difficult years of his youth.

Before the war began, Elie worked as a taxi driver and after he was discharged in 2019, he wanted to learn a profession so he could have a career for the future and make up for the previous years.

Elie started working at a metal casting workshop and in the afternoon, he continued working as a taxi driver trying his best to pay all his expenses and provide the living demands for his family.

However, the metal casting profession affected his health as he was exposed to lung poisoning due to inhaling poisoned gases. After his treatment, his doctor recommended that he doesn't go back to the same job because his lungs were damaged, and continuing in the same work might lead to serious outcomes.

But working as a taxi driver wasn’t enough to meet the livelihood costs because he had to give half of his income to the taxi owner, which forced him to sacrifice his health and face the dangers of keep working in the metal workshop for the sake of his family.

Elie was seeking any chance to improve his situation so he applied for the Micro-projects program for a taxi hoping that his life would change for the better.

Today after being funded to buy a taxi, Elie is delighted to have a project of his own. At the same time, he can work harder and improve his living conditions to provide his family and kids with a decent life.

Rami Yacoub, his mother, and three sisters accumulated courage by surviving difficult times and challenging conditions.

When he was only thirteen, Rami’s father passed away, which didn’t just affect the family and made them live in sorrow and grief, but also forced Rami to leave his school, abandon his childhood, and start working to afford the daily living demands.

He took a job as a worker in a medical shoe workshop to support his mother who was also working long hours at a shoe-making workshop trying as much as possible to secure a decent living for her kids. Together, Rami and his mother were fighting against the life hardships and the difficult living circumstances especially since his elder sister became a widow and returned along with her son to live with them.

Rami became responsible for three sisters, a young nephew, and a sick mother whose job was very difficult and affected her health. He tried to start a shoe workshops but it cost was very high and the demand for medical shoes declined due to the increases in the prices of the materials that prevented normal people to purchase them which made him quit this profession.

Yet, Rami didn’t hesitate to learn another profession so he took a men's barbering course and worked at many salons but the low wages he took made it impossible which led him to apply at the micro projects program to become independent and have his own salon.

"During all those tough years, I always felt God lighting my way and leading me to a better place”

this is how Rami expressed his feelings after his project was funded, now he is able to work, have a proper income and provide his mother and sisters with decent living conditions.