DRCs livelihood support program in Lebanon support refugees through in-kind grants to support family businesses, apprenticeships and vocational training.

Ghada Abed El Nabi now has something to smile about. Since the devastating loss of her father to cancer in 2004 and the destruction of her family’s furniture showroom in the 2006 con.ict, life has been tough. Unable to reopen their business, the large family has been struggling to make ends meet.

However, Ghada - a medical laboratory graduate - has found opportunity and livelihood prospects through DRC’s Dahieh-based livelihood support program. Under the program, Ghada is completing
a 5-month paid apprenticeship with Aya Lab, a noted laboratory in Dahieh area managed by Mr. Rabih El Khansa.

The apprenticeship, which commenced on 9th July, will provide Ghada with valuable practical experience in a laboratory environment and increase her chances of .nding ongoing employment and contributing to her family’s earned income.

Ghada is now optimistic about her prospects, “The work at Aya Lab is giving me con.dence and hope for a better future. It’s very bright,”
she said. Her devotion and sense of commitment is clear, “I am eager to acquire more experience and prove myself in this .eld”.

17 year old Duo Asaad also shares Ghada’s con.dence and positive outlook. Another of DRC’s bene.ciaries under the project, Duo, his
Thai mother and Lebanese father had lived in “peace and satisfaction” in the now completely destroyed Imam Hasan Compound.

In the 2006 con.ict, they lost their home and both the father’s shoe repair business and Duo’s small but fourishing internet café.
Despite the hardships, Duo’s youthful ambition has not faded. He is determined to rebuild and develop his business to its full potential.

On 3rd July, an elated Duo received an in-kind grant of 5 computers, chairs and tables for his reopened internet café. He revealed the grant would have a pronounced impact on his family’s life.

“With this DRC support, I can get back on my feet and make money to sustain and improve our lives”.

DRC’s Dahieh-based livelihood support program is operating in the Southern Beirut’s Burj Al Barajneh, Haret Hreik and Chiyah areas. To date, 74 bene.ciaries, like Duo will receive in-kind grants to support their family businesses, 4 like Ghada will undertake apprenticeships and an additional 3 bene.ciaries are enrolled in vocational
training.

The DRC Livelihood Support Program is supported by the European Commission’s Humanitartian Aid department.

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