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Growing up, Bashir never felt at home in the school system. The instability in the country—the war, the uncertainty—only reinforced his belief that formal education was not the right path for him.
That opportunity came unexpectedly when a neighbor mentioned a job opening at a well-known aluminum company. At the time, Bashir knew nothing about aluminum work, nor did he feel any passion for it. But the job represented something bigger.
At first, the job was just a means of survival, but something shifted. Over time, Bashir found himself drawn to the work. Each project became a personal challenge, an opportunity to refine his skills and master new techniques. “I had no formal training, no mentor guiding me. Everything I learned was through trial and error. Every mistake was a lesson that shaped me into the craftsman I am today.”
After years of dedication, he reached a pivotal moment in his career. Though he had gained significant experience, he felt constrained. He wanted more. He dreamed of owning his own shop, making his own decisions, and shaping his future. His promotion to foreman, overseeing 20 workers, was a defining milestone. “That was proof that I was capable, that I was moving forward,” he says. But he didn’t stop there.
With patience and perseverance, Bashir saved money, preparing for the day he could stand on his own. That moment finally arrived in 2023, when he fulfilled his long-held dream of opening his own aluminum workshop. “It was more than just a business; it was the realization of a dream built on persistence and resilience”. Now, every project he takes on is a testament to his reputation and dedication. “For me, it’s not just about profit. It’s about craftsmanship. I want every client to look at my work and say, ‘This is a good guy.’”
His journey took another leap when he discovered Naaam Business Solutions Center, managed by Swisscontact's local partners The Nawaya Network. Intrigued by the opportunities it provided, he reached out and was soon interviewed by the center. In 2024, he officially joined the network, gaining access to valuable business support services. "Through the support I received at the Naaam Business Solutions Center, I gained new insights into managing my workshop, reaching more clients, and securing my future."
In the heart of Andket, a small village in northern Lebanon, a group of determined women set out on a journey that would transform their lives and the lives of many others. What began as a simple initiative to create a women’s committee soon evolved into something far greater—a cooperative that not only empowered women economically but also fostered a sense of belonging and shared purpose.
Marleine Youssef, one of the founding members, recalls the early days with nostalgia and pride. “At first, we were just gathering, organizing entertainment activities,” she says. “But we wanted to do more—we wanted to create something that could sustain us, that could help women support their families.” And so, Andket Pro was born, officially registered and operating as a cooperative.
Starting with humble means, the women focused on traditional food processing and the production of mouneh—Lebanese pantry staples such as jams, syrups, and dried herbs. They worked in a small municipal room before moving, in 2015, to a repurposed wine factory outside the village. Despite the challenges, they persevered, driven by the dream of financial independence and community solidarity.
One of the greatest obstacles they faced was access to the market. “Some women were already producing food, but they had no way to sell their products,” Marleine explains. “That’s why we decided to open our own store in the village—to make our products accessible and create a steady income.” This decision was a turning point, motivating more women to join the cooperative, ensuring their hard work translated into tangible financial support for their families. Today the cooperative has a total of 23 female members from Andket village.
Swisscontact, in collaboration with IZRAA, saw potential in Andket Pro and extended its support. Through tailored training sessions, women were able to refine their food production techniques, learn about herbal processing, and improve their overall efficiency. Swisscontact also provided the cooperative with logistical support to participate in an exhibition organized by the General Directorate of Cooperatives in Antelias, a major city far from the village, further expanding their visibility. “The training made a real difference,” Marleine says. “Some of our members learned new techniques, especially in syrup production, making their work more efficient. Participants even asked for more trainings—they were so eager to learn.”
Beyond technical skills, the cooperative became a source of emotional support for its members. For Marleine, the cooperative is more than just a workplace—it’s a passion and a second home. “I wake up every morning and go straight to the coop. I can’t live without it. It was my dream to see it grow, and I want it to become even bigger.” The dream of growth is shared among all the women at the cooperative. Since 2019, it has generated steady income, enabling members to support their children’s education and pay for university fees, investing in a better future.
Swisscontact remains committed to fostering such initiatives, empowering communities, and ensuring that women like those of Andket Pro continue to thrive. Their story is one of resilience, of women lifting each other up, and of a cooperative that is not just about food—but about dreams, determination, and a better tomorrow.
For 32-year-old Mona Samandr, the path to professional fulfillment was filled with obstacles. A Syrian refugee who had been living in Lebanon for 14 years, Mona had earned a degree in psychology but struggled to find work. Despite her qualifications and passion for helping others, she faced a significant barrier: limited English proficiency.
"I was facing the challenge of getting accepted for a job because the interviews were in English," she recalls. With each missed opportunity, her frustration grew, but so did her determination.
When a friend recommended the TAFAWOQ Project, Mona saw a chance to change her situation. Motivated by her belief in continuous self-improvement, she enrolled in the program, eager to refine her communication skills and expand her professional network.
"I wanted to improve my English, not just for job interviews but also to access new scientific resources, engage with organizations, and connect with people who speak the language," she explains. "For me and my friends, this experience was amazing on all levels. The coaches were incredible, making the learning process efficient and enjoyable. The group work, the positive environment—it all made a difference."
Through the C4EE compoment, Mona received tailored coaching that transformed her approach to job applications. Learning proper pronunciation was a breakthrough. "Before, my pronunciation was very weak, but after the training, I could pronounce 60% of the words correctly. That gave me confidence during interviews," she says.
Beyond language skills, Mona gained essential soft skills related to career planning, CV writing, and interview techniques. The mock interview exercises during the training proved invaluable. "I didn’t have confidence before, but after the program, I did. The combination of improved English skills and self-assurance made my interview successful, and I landed my job as a psychologist at Al Enaya Al Ahleya School in Tripoli."
Securing the position was a milestone, but for Mona, the journey of growth continues. "Now, I want to take my English skills even further. My goal is to pass the IELTS test and gain more professional experience. After participating in TAFAWOQ, I’m also motivated to work in a similar program—one that provides the same supportive and inspiring environment that I experienced."
Looking ahead, Mona envisions a career where she can combine her passion for psychology with her newfound confidence and skills. "Before meeting the TAFAWOQ team, my focus was just on improving my English. Now, I realize the importance of working in an environment that encourages growth and development. My next goal is to find a full-time job in an organization that fosters this kind of support."
For others facing similar challenges, Mona has a simple yet powerful message:
And when she finally received the news that she had been hired, it reaffirmed everything she had worked for. "When I got the job, I felt accomplished. It proved to me that every effort we put into self-improvement has a positive impact. Even small steps can open doors for the future."
Mona’s story is a testament to the power of persistence, the right support, and the belief that no obstacle is insurmountable. With her newfound confidence and skills, she is not just building a career—she is shaping a future filled with possibilities.
Through skills development, business support, and market access facilitation, the Tafawoq project has empowered individuals and communities to break barriers and achieve economic independence. Whether it’s Bashir mastering his craft and growing his business, the women of Andket Pro securing financial stability, or Mona overcoming language barriers to enter the workforce, the project’s impact is clear:
Opportunities transform lives.
As Tafawoq continues its mission, it reaffirms a fundamental belief—when people are given the right support and access to opportunities, they don’t just succeed; they thrive.
This project is financed by the Leopold Bachmann Foundation, among other donors. This project is part of the Swisscontact Development Programme, which is co-financed by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), Federal Department of Foreign Affairs FDFA.