Apr, 2024
A nursing course is bolstering youth employment in Beirut and Mount Lebanon
In partnership with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), financed by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Development and Cooperation (BMZ).
Amid Lebanon's years-long economic crisis and more recently the security situation in South Lebanon, uncertainty and challenges in daily life abound in Lebanon. Hayat has nonetheless seized opportunities when they arose, creating for herself a strong footing for earning a solid livelihood and a bright future. Her story reflects the impact of the partnership between Anera and GIZ, financed by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), in fostering economic empowerment through the Youth Employment in Beirut and Mount Lebanon project.
The youth employment project is designed to empower individuals aged 17 to 35 in Beirut and Mount Lebanon, including women and people with disabilities. The project responds to the economic opportunities available in fields like healthcare and hospitality. Through tailored training programs and strategic job placement assistance, our youth employment project equips young people with the essential skills for securing meaningful employment opportunities in a rapidly evolving job market.
Hayat had earned a degree in management information systems. Amid the economic crisis, opportunities were few despite her qualifications. "It was a challenging period," she says. "Job opportunities were scarce."
Undeterred, she embarked on a new path.
Recognizing the growing demand for healthcare professionals following the COVID-19 pandemic and the brain drain in the field, she made a bold decision to switch careers after graduation, opting to study nursing. This choice reflected her determination and her desire to contribute meaningfully to her community.
"It was a challenging period. Job opportunities were scarce."
Hayat enrolled in the healthcare refresher registered nurses course provided by Anera and GIZ. Through rigorous training and hands-on experience at the Saint Therese Medical Center (STMC), Hayat honed her skills and found a newfound sense of purpose in healthcare.
Her perseverance and dedication during the training period culminated in job offers at respected institutions like Saint Therese and Clemenceau Medical Center (CMC), allowing her to earn a dual income. The journey of Hayat and her classmates demonstrates the transformative impact of skill development initiatives on individual lives and community prosperity.
Hayat emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and resilience in achieving goals. "Persistence and determination are key to overcoming challenges and achieving success in any endeavor," she says.
Her story stands as an inspiration to young people navigating similar obstacles.
It also underscores the effectiveness of investing in youth employment and skill development initiatives. As Lebanon continues to confront economic challenges, Hayat shows us the path toward empowering individuals to realize their potential and forge a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
"Persistence and determination are key to overcoming challenges and achieving success in any endeavor."
