From Displacement to Purpose
A Young Lebanese Story of Hope
At the age of 13, young Youssef experienced something no child has to experience: leaving his home due to war.
Youssef and his family lived in a village in southern Lebanon, close to the border. When the bombardment intensified and their safety was at risk, the family was forced to leave their home and community and seek refuge in a safer area. Like many displaced families, they left behind more than a house. Youssef had to leave behind his school, his friends, his memories and much of the life he knew, not sure whether he will be back again.
His family eventually found shelter in a place supported by HOPE worldwide Lebanon. His father works in furniture upholstery, and the family was doing their best to adapt to their new circumstances.
Youssef was described as a polite and caring boy. Despite being only 13, he often showed a strong sense of responsibility toward his mother and younger sister, looking out for them and making sure they were okay. However, the disruption of school and normal life left him with little to do, and the days in the shelter could feel long and unproductive. He was looking for something that could give him a sense of purpose.
That opportunity came unexpectedly! HOPE worldwide Lebanon implemented Stitched, a women’s empowerment program in two shelters for those displaced by the war. The program aims to empower women and young girls by teaching and developing their skills in stitching and knitting. Thus, helping them create items that can be sold to generate income. Part of the proceeds support the women financially, while another part contributes to therapy for children with special needs.
Youssef watched the women learning and creating, and he became curious. He wanted to participate. The young boy who initially knew nothing about these skills quickly became one of the most enthusiastic participants.
He would be the first one waiting at the door for the STITCHERS to arrive. Sometimes, he would ask them to come more often than what was scheduled. He became particularly attached to his mentor, watching her carefully, learning from her, and trying to imitate what she did. With each new skill he learned, something else began to change. Youssef became more engaged, more joyful, and more positive. He was no longer simply passing time in the shelter. He had something to achieve. He began producing items himself and became proud of what he was able to create, especially when he could show his accomplishments to the other children.
For a boy who had been forced to leave school because of war, learning a new skill gave him a different kind of education: the experience of discovering that he could start from zero, learn something new, and create something valuable with his own hands.
His parents encouraged him and supported his growing interest. And Youssef began thinking beyond the shelter. He dreamed of creating his own online page and eventually an online shop where he could sell the items he creates.
After the ceasefire, Youssef and his family were able to return to their village. While waiting for school to resume, he is working in a toy shop to help support his family. His circumstances have changed but so has his perspective towards life.
What began as boredom and uncertainty became an opportunity to learn, connect, create, and regain a sense of purpose. Youssef’s experience is a reminder that empowerment is not only about providing material support. Sometimes, it begins by giving someone the opportunity to discover what they are capable of.
Through Stitched, HOPE worldwide Lebanon seeks to equip and empower people affected by displacement while also providing psychosocial support and creating opportunities for connection and productivity. It is a form of therapy that has paved the way for more than 80 women and children to thrive.
For Youssef, it was more than learning how to produce something. It was discovering that even when circumstances seem to press you down, an opportunity will always come where you can still learn, create, and dream about a better future.
Together we Inspire Greater HOPE.
