From a Youth to a Catalyst. A journey full of ups and downs challenges, where each challenge is a step towards growth.
I want to share my journey and experience with LP4Y in Green Village (GV) Lebanon, where I began as a Youth participant and grew into a role that has profoundly impacted my life.
When I first joined LP4Y, I was seeking guidance and support to become more responsible and independent. I wanted to learn how to create a professional CV, write a compelling motivation letter, apply for jobs, and perform well in interviews. My goal was to prove to myself and others that I could achieve success on my own.
At GV Lebanon, I received training that developed both my soft and hard skills.
During my time as a Youth participant, I was also preparing for my final exams at the institute. I successfully completed my studies and earned a certificate in nursing.
As I entered the job market, I focused on nursing and healthcare positions. Despite applying for many jobs, including door-to-door applications, I struggled to find employment. After leaving GV, I continued my job search and eventually found a position at a nursing home. However, the salary was low, and the location was far from my home, making it financially unsustainable.
Throughout this challenging period, my supportive GV leader, Mona, frequently checked in on me. She encouraged me to keep trying and never give up. One day, Mona offered me an opportunity to become a Community Life Coach (CLC) at GV for a month. I was overjoyed and immediately shared the news with my mom, celebrating the chance to give back to the community that had helped me so much.
My journey as a CLC began on October 26, 2023. Seeing my former Coaches and now working alongside them was a dream come true. My first Monday was a significant day, with Ghida providing me with a thorough handover. Shortly after, we welcomed a new batch of Youth. Although I was a bit nervous, the experience was incredibly rewarding as I felt myself growing and gaining confidence.
Day by day, I learned and acquired new skills and qualities. I now understand how solar panels and generators work, handle maintenance tasks, and take on real responsibilities. While I am not a mother or sister to the Youth, I always strive to support and push them to reach their potential.
One memorable event was the E-Day, where I witnessed the incredible talents of the Youth at GV and TDC. They performed a theater piece on gender discrimination and unity, and we all danced the traditional dabke.
The experience was challenging during rehearsals, but the final performance was worth every effort. It was a significant achievement, especially for the shy participants who gained confidence through the talent show.
Since May, I have been coaching Youth in the micro-company, and I am proud of my growth in this amazing place. I continuously learn and improve, never hesitating to ask questions and broaden my understanding. Working with others who have diverse mindsets and experiences has been invaluable.
Additionally, being part of the GV community has been an enriching experience. The sense of belonging and support has been a crucial part of my journey. I have formed meaningful relationships and learned the importance of community life. It has taught me the value of collaboration, mutual respect, and the power of working together towards common goals. This community has become a second family to me, providing encouragement and inspiration every step of the way.
Initially, I was anxious about my new role, but now I feel more comfortable and confident. My curiosity and desire to learn more about coaching have brought me to where I am today. I am grateful for this journey and excited about the future.
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