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.

For more than twenty years, Samer worked as a tiler for long hours to secure his family the best possible living.

Samer is 45 years old, married to Eivon Makhoul and they have two kids.

Samer and his family couldn’t afford to rent their own flat so they lived in a small room in his parent’s house in the Aldwallaa neighborhood. He was also responsible for taking care of his old parents and securing their expenses which overwhelmed him with high living costs.

He didn’t mind doubling his efforts for his family's sake and even in wartime, under the shelling and explosions, he kept his faith in God and his will and kept struggling to survive and live in dignity.

However, at the beginning of 2022, all his endeavors vanished in a blink of an eye when the iron cutting machine broke and the grinding wheel hit his left arm which led to the rupture of the tendons of his hand and caused severe injury to his nerves and bones.

After that incident, Samer went through long sessions of treatment and became unable to continue his previous work; for the following nine months, he was with no income, living with the help of his relatives and the church’s support. 

His psychological situation was affected badly since he never used to need anyone’s help and used to work and feed his family from his efforts.

Samer started to deliver vegetables and other products to shops and although his income was very low, he insisted to work to support his family.

he applied for the pickup truck project seeking work that suits his health condition and at the same time secures him a sustainable source of income to improve his livelihood situation.

Micheline Halal, 44 years old, is married to Fadi Francis, and they have two sons and a daughter.

Micheline and her family are from a small village called Maaloula in the countryside of Damascus where they used to live and work in their grocery store. Her husband worked as a mural artist, and they were living in stability and safety until the fierce war began and its impact reached the village of Maaloula, which forced the family to close the grocery store, leave their home, and flee out.

Micheline and her children moved to live in her sister's house in Damascus, and her husband traveled to Lebanon to work and secure an income for his family hoping that the war would end quickly so that they could return to their hometown. Two years later, Micheline decided to rent a house in Jaramana and move to live there with her family, especially after she knew that her house in Maaloula was completely damaged and all the furniture was stolen.

During that period, her husband returned from Lebanon, and the whole family participated to secure the living costs, even though their children were working part-time jobs after school to help with the household expenses but their conditions were still deteriorating.

With the help of Hope center, Micheline had the chance to have a mini-market with all the needed equipment and goods, and she is now able to work and support her family to improve their situation and have a decent life.

Maria Al-Samaan is the eldest daughter in a family of five, her father has retired due to a disability and his pension was their only income for many years in addition to the help of relatives.

however, their circumstances were never easy, and during the years of war, they suffered precarious conditions and financial hardships, in addition to her mother's illness with breast cancer.

All this did not weaken Maria's determination to complete her education, as she was able to enter the Faculty of Architectural Engineering, and since her first year at the university, she started working in the profession of nail beauty with the help of her aunt so that she could afford her university expenses.

After graduating from the university, she was employed at Syriatel telecommunication company as an engineer, and at the same time, she continued working in nail beauty because her salary was very low and was barely sufficient to cover the house demands.

Over time, Maria found that her work in Syriatel was draining her time and energy, and her salary was very low compared to the house obligations, so she decided to resign and work full-time in the profession of nail beauty.

unfortunately, this work also has disadvantages, as she was diagnosed of having sciatic nerve inflammation and neck beaks, and she was no longer able to keep working and needed an income-generation project to cover the livelihood demands.

Maria was concerned because she is the eldest daughter and she is responsible for the house and her siblings, but with the help of the Micro-project program, she was able to start her own cosmetic store to sell nail beauty and cosmetic materials, which will relieve her of the hard work and provide her with sustainable income to live in dignity.

Rafy is 45 and married to Rania Al-Asaad and they have two sons Fady born in 2005 and Hady born in 2009.

Before the war, the family lived in Maaloula village and they were in a good financial situation as they had a mini-market on the main street where Rafy and his wife used to work and at the weekends Rafy used to work at wall-painting workshops to increase their income.

However, after 2011, their life changed completely as the armed groups attacked Maaloula, entered the city, and began spreading the killing and violent acts everywhere. In 2013, the family was forced to flee to Damascus and live at the wife’s family house in Al-Dwallaa area, as their house in Maaloula was hit by a shell which caused its destruction, and the shop was looted and burned.

However, Rafy didn't let desperation sneak into his heart, so he decided to overcome all the incidents they have been through and start a new mini-market in Kashkoul and named it "Al-Maalouly" but soon after he was called for the reserve military service and for the next six years he was serving in Alqtaifa and his wife was running the mini market until his discharge in 2019.

He was very concerned about the fate of his sons and he decided to travel to Erbil with his family to seek better living conditions but that decision coincided with the Corona pandemic and he lost all of his savings in Erbil and went back to Syria despaired. 

upon his return, Rafy started to work as a driver but of his bad luck he had a car accident and was hurt but several injuries that caused him a 60% deficit and a long period of treatment.

he was devastated and lost so he decided to hold his last hope and apply to the Micro-project program for the mini-market project.

After the fund, Rafy is so grateful and feels blessed that God has made up for all the calamities he went through and he is determent to restore his life balance and work to improve his living conditions.

Elias Faddoul, 56, is married to Carmen Jarrous and they share living with his siblings at the family's old house in Bab Touma.

Before the war, Elias had a small store for selling holy icons and rosaries, he loved his work a lot and was always creating new designs, but with the beginning of the war, the difficult economic conditions affected his job as the demand for icons was no longer required because people were barely able to afford the basic demands so his business deteriorated and ended with closing the store in 2015.

However, Elias didn't despair and was ready to start over; he took many courses at the church including project management, design, and many others then volunteered to work with special-needs people and trained them to do wax modeling and handicrafts. He also started a workshop affiliated with the Greek Catholic Church in 2018 to recycle and sell candles, and all the profit went to charity work.

Elias was very passionate about his profession and wanted to start his own workshop especially since his wife had experience in the field of crochet and handicraft work, but the tools they owned were old and worn out, and their financial conditions hindered them from achieving this dream.

With great faith, Elias applied to the Micro-project program to start his workshop and he was funded with equipment, machines, and materials that will revive his work and secure better and more sustainable income for the future.

Sami Hartak is a determined and hardworking young man, he is 31 and lives with his old parents and sisters in a modest house in Al-Dwallaa neighborhood.

He graduated from the faculty of agricultural engineering during wartime which made it so difficult for him especially since his parents are old and retired so he was responsible for his expenses and the house obligations at the same time under some very harsh circumstances.

Sami wasn’t lucky to find a suitable job that meets the high costs of living but he got employed in the morning as an agricultural engineer and took a part-time job as a photographer assistant in the afternoon. He soon became passionate about this profession and took many courses to enhance his skills then he volunteered to do all the media work for the Maronite church and the hope charity related to sisters Jesus and Mary and gained practical experience.

Although Sami loved working with the church, his financial condition was falling apart and he needed to have an income to afford the living demands so he applied to the micro-project program and took a project management course to improve his management skills so he could be able to run his own project.

Now after the fund, Sami started to see life through his camera’s lenses, and he is not only doing the work he loves but also benefiting and securing his future.

George Dahdal, 31 years old, lives along with his father, brother, grandma, and aunt in a small house in Al- Dwalaa area.

Before the war, George was working with his father at the family mini-market until the beginning of the crisis in Syria which affected their work so his father decided to close the mini-market and started to work as a pick-up driver.

During that period, their village became invaded by the armed groups, and George’s grandmother and aunt were displaced and came to live with George’s family in Al-Dwalaa which increased the responsibilities since they are both disabled and needed a lot of care and medication.

In 2014, George was feeling hopeless and decided to go to Lebanon to work and he stayed there for six years working at a restaurant and sending money to his family until 2020 when he got the news about his mother’s disease as she was diagnosed with cancer. George decided to quit his job and return to Syria to stay beside his mother during her treatment journey that took two difficult and painful years and ended up with her death in 2022 which was a great shock for the entire family.

During those two years, George tried to find a proper job to support his family with the house expenses but most jobs' income wasn’t matching the high costs of living so he decided to apply for the mini-market project since he has an experience in that field.

He also took a project management course and did everything he could to improve his chances and in return, his project was funded with all the needed tools, goods, and products.

George now is looking forward to improving his business and planning to expand his project for the future.

Fady Ibrahim is 30 years old, married to Mariam Altheib and they have three cute little girls, Georgette born in 2017, Cathren 2019, and Yara 2021. They live in a rented flat in Kashkoul, Damascus suburbs.

With the first sparks of war, Fady was still at the beginning of his life journey, full of youthful enthusiasm, but he didn’t have the time or choice to start a new chapter of his life because in 2011 he was called for military service until 2021.

Ten harsh years drained his dreams and energy, as he was serving during the toughest circumstances especially since his concerns and responsibilities increased after getting married and having his three daughters.

However, after his discharge in 2021, he found himself in the prime of his life without any profession or experience so he worked many jobs such as a taxi driver, a worker at an aluminum workshop, and a pickup car driver. Fady was a hardworking man and his employers were very pleased with his work and tried to support him.

He didn’t mind working three jobs a day so he could live in dignity and afford all his obligations and living expenses but the post-war years were very tough, and being a family provider wasn’t an easy job because no matter how hard he worked the income was still not enough to match the living demands. Fady wanted a chance to have his own project.

Having a taxi made him feel independent and responsible for his own income and gave him the power to work even harder trying to change his family’s livelihood for the better.

Although the war is over, but its calamities has remained in the heart of each one of us, as a painful reminder of what we have been through especially since many are still suffering from its effects such as Emad Dawood and others from the war-wounded individuals.

Emad is 31 years old, married to Nour Sbaih and they have three adorable kids, Rosseil born in 2017, and the twins Roy and Junior born in 2022.

Before the war, he worked as a tiler and was dreaming of improving himself and have an independent business but unfortunately, the war came to rob all his dreams as he was called for military service and he had to serve in the most dangerous places in the countryside of Damascus until 2014 when he was injured by more than one shot.

His injury was severe as he had to undergo many surgeries that led to a complete removal of the spleen, part of the colon, and part of the stomach, leading to a 40 percent of disability as a result, so he was discharged from the military service. However, Because of his disability, Emad was unable to return to his old profession so he started working at Bab sharqi cemetery in 2017 then he worked as a salesperson in a dairy shop until its closure in 2019 when he took a job as a delivery-man for a restaurant.

Emad was fighting for the sake of his family and didn’t hesitate to work more than 16 hours a day, yet he wasn’t able to provide even the milk for his newborn twins or the livelihood demands of his family. he was looking for a chance so he applied for the mini-market project.

Now, After being funded, Emad finally feels that God is leading him to the best and he is willing to work hard to improve the family's life.

Wasim Abou Saab is 33 years old, married to Majdoleen Albahry with two kids Lamitta born in 2017, and Elia born in 2019, and the couple are waiting to welcome their twins after a few months.

Before the war, Wasim graduated from the faculty of economics and trade, then worked at a company for three years until 2011, as he was called for military service and wasn’t discharged until 9 years later.

During that period Wasim got married and started a family with the help of his parents and his in-laws, then after his discharge, he started working during the anise season as he used to transport the anise crops from Hieneh village to Damascus but his income was very little and exclusively during the harvest seasons so his friend loaned him a taxi to work on as a part-time job so he could be able to meet his obligations and expenses especially since his wife is suffering from back disc pain and Periphera neuropathy and she needs medicines on daily basis.

Wasim was struggling; working many jobs to provide his family with a decent living but during the previous years the situation deteriorated quickly and he was seeking a project of his own to secure his livelihood.

He applied for the pick-up truck because it will help in his seasonal work and also for transporting goods which will increase his income and provide him and his family with better living conditions.

For many years of his life, Shar Alabdoun, worked hard taking every possible opportunity to have an income and live in dignity.

He graduated from a tourism institute and started to work as a cook, and when he had a job vacancy in the Caribbean islands he didn’t hesitate to travel and work there, then when he saved some money he decided to return to Syria and have his own project.

For his bad luck, he returned in 2011 and started his restaurant in the countryside of Damascus unknowing that the timing was terrible because that very year, the war broke out and all the suburbs were attacked which led to the destruction of his restaurant and losing all the money he saved in the past years.

However, Shar decided to start over from scratch and returned to work as a chef at different restaurants trying to have a proper income to afford his living and save for the future, he even traveled to Lebanon seeking better job opportunities but the high costs of living there were unbearable.

In 2019, Shar got married to Majd Alnehmeh, and they had their son Sharbel who brightened their life.

Shar was always searching for a chance to be independent and has his own income so he sold the wedding rings and started a mini-market but the heart problems he suffered from after that and the surgery he went through affected his financial situation and made him unable to make any improvement at his project.

With the help of Hope center, Shar didn’t lose his mini-market because he was funded with the necessary goods and products that will give him a strong push to expand his mini-market and work for improving his conditions and provide his family with a decent living.