The Hariri Foundation, in collaboration with AMIDEAST, organized a training program titled “Start/ Expand Your Own Business”, targeting entrepreneurs with start-up projects in Saida and its surrounding areas. Over six weeks, 17 participants, with diverse project ideas and fields, took part in the program. The six best projects were selected, and the entrepreneurs were recognized and celebrated during a graduation ceremony held at the National State Academy at Rafic Hariri High School in Saida. The event was attended by Mrs. Bahia Hariri, President of the Hariri Foundation; Dr. Rana Taher, Regional Director of AMIDEAST in Lebanon; Dr. Rubina Abou Zeinab, Executive Director of the Hariri Foundation; the program participants; and representatives from both organizations.
Opening Remarks
The event began with a welcoming note by Mr. Mohamed Ismail, Networking and Analysis Manager at the Hariri Foundation and the program coordinator. He provided an overview of the program and its stages: “The economic crisis has affected all sectors, especially small and emerging businesses, which have been hit the hardest. This partnership between the Hariri Foundation and AMIDEAST aims to empower start-up owners in Saida and the surrounding areas to develop their projects, adapt to changes, and foster greater innovation to overcome existing challenges.”
He added that the program also seeks to establish effective partnerships between civil, academic, and private sectors to promote economic growth. Over five weeks of training, participants worked on various small business and start-up projects, including handmade crafts, jewelry, food and beverages, and cosmetics, with four of these projects focusing on environmental sustainability and the circular economy.
The training program covered several key topics: entrepreneurial thinking, strategic and business planning, finance and accounting, legal requirements, management, sales and marketing, success factors, and common pitfalls to avoid. At the conclusion of the training, the 17 participants presented their project ideas to a joint jury from AMIDEAST and the Hariri Foundation, resulting in six winners.
Mrs. Hariri’s Remarks
Following a short video showcasing the training phase and testimonials from participants, Mrs. Bahia Hariri congratulated the participants on their creativity. She expressed her pride in the long-standing partnership with AMIDEAST, which extends beyond this program, and emphasized the importance of connecting civil and academic sectors.
She stated: “Not everyone can develop their abilities on their own. As a foundation, we wanted to provide this service to groups. In every project we undertake in entrepreneurship and business development, the number of interested applicants always exceeds our capacity. We constantly think about those who didn’t get the opportunity and how we can provide it to them, so they can develop these ideas and innovations and pave their way to success.”
Addressing the trainees, she said: “The most important thing is innovation—always strive to offer something new and adapt to changes. We are keen to ensure that these projects align with the circular economy, the blue economy, and environmentally friendly practices. Congratulations on completing this program, and we wish you success in your projects. May we always meet with greater advancements, innovations, and achievements across Lebanon.”
Dr. Taher’s Remarks
Dr. Taher highlighted the historic partnership between AMIDEAST and the Hariri Foundation, which spans over two decades and focuses on educational and developmental initiatives benefiting students and professionals across Lebanon. She said: “Today, we stand together to forge a new path towards broader and more focused work, promoting entrepreneurship and innovation among Lebanese youth and professionals in various sectors. On behalf of AMIDEAST, I congratulate the participants on successfully completing the ‘Start/ Expand Your Own Business’ training program organized in collaboration with the Hariri Foundation. Today marks a milestone, as you have invested not only in yourselves but also in the future of your communities and families.”
She added: “Starting a business is not just about an idea; it’s about courage, determination, and hard work. It’s about turning dreams into reality. Throughout this journey, you’ve demonstrated all these qualities and taken the necessary steps to achieve your dreams. The skills you gained through this program go beyond technical knowledge—you’ve learned how to transform vision into reality, identify opportunities, develop strategies, and manage resources. Entrepreneurship is a continuous learning process, and while challenges and doubts may arise, these moments will ultimately define your success.”
Dr. Taher expressed gratitude to the Hariri Foundation’s leadership and team, as well as to trainer André Abi Awad and AMIDEAST’s Regional Training Programs Specialist, Mirna Chedrawi, for their guidance and support. She congratulated the participants and wished them success in growing their businesses and realizing their dreams.
Recognition and Awards
At the end of the ceremony, certificates were distributed to the trainees, and monetary prizes were awarded to the six winning entrepreneurs, who also delivered presentations showcasing their project ideas and innovations.
Program Participants
The 17 entrepreneurs who participated in the program were Sara Al-Tahera, Ghina Armanazi, Lamis Younis, Mira Al-Sharif, Ali Ajami, Lea Al-Samra, Hanan Harb, Fatima Masrah, Farah Jeradeh, Ferdous Santina, Sirine Dokmak, Doha Al-Assi, Asmaa Bayram, Tania Ibrahim, Tahani Santina, Nihal Al-Hafni, and Nazih Bazari.
The event concluded with hope and determination for a brighter entrepreneurial future, fostering growth and resilience in Lebanon’s start-up ecosystem.