Economic resilience stands as a cornerstone of MARCH’s initiatives, particularly evident in its efforts within Beb El Tabbaneh and Jabal Mohsen. Recognizing that the roots of conflict extended beyond mere ideology, MARCH identified a socioeconomic ecosystem that led to further marginalization of these communities, leaving them lacking opportunities and mired in hopelessness. This was primarily due to their inability to attain formal education and build the skills and capacities required for a profession or a career. Additionally, a significant number of these youths were stateless and/or had unclean records which then constituted drivers of violence and conflict.
In response, MARCH’s adopted theory of change focuses on integrating gender-mixed vocational training workshops into its cultural hub Kahwetna. These workshops provide at-risk youth with alternative pathways, fostering professional skills and economic independence. The vocational training workshops are diverse where most are in craftsmanship such as woodwork, sewing, fashion design, digital and hand embroidery, and another vocation in kitchen and moune making. A newly added vocational training in dentistry after realizing the importance of dental care in the area focusing on training youth in the center on becoming dental assistants. The impact of the vocational training became evident as youth gained proficiency in furniture manufacturing, fashion design, mouneh making and others shifting their life trajectories towards sustainable careers.
Moreover, these trainings work on challenging traditional gender norms by empowering young men and women to explore diverse vocational fields and work together to achieve economic resilience and empowerment.
Witnessing the success of the Beb El Dehab program, MARCH expanded its economic initiatives, establishing sustainable projects such as “BEDCO,” “KAN YA MAKAN,” the “Love and War Tour,” and “Kahwetna.” These initiatives not only created job opportunities but also promoted reconciliation and community development.
“BEDCO” facilitated Beirut’s recovery post-blast, engaging youth in SME rehabilitation efforts. On another hand, “KAN YA MAKAN” provides a platform for former fighters and adversaries to create traditional and uniquely crafted items to showcase their stories of peace and resilience. The “Love and War Tour” highlights their unity along former demarcation lines as they showcase the history of the region, while “Kahwetna Café” emerges as a cultural hub, where the youth serve coffee and welcome visitors and serve as a symbol of unity.
Moreover, MARCH forged partnerships with private sector entities to ensure sustained support beyond its program through collaborating with companies like Café Najjar and Bokja Design Studios which provided employment opportunities for a significant number of the youth.
Through these multifaceted efforts, MARCH recognized that fostering economic resilience and social inclusion offered a viable alternative to sectarian narratives. By providing stability, security, and purpose, MARCH empowered youth to break free from cycles of violence, contributing to a more prosperous and inclusive society.
