For two years now, LP4Y in Lebanon has been welcoming excluded Youth from different backgrounds and communities: witnessing their journey of growth has always been inspiring. It forces admiration, from the beginning of the program until the day they graduate. In a world where challenges often seem insurmountable, it's the moments of triumph that shine brightest.
Randa's journey with LP4Y has been nothing but transformative. She shares her story, with gratitude and resilience — a testament to the power of community and support:
I am Randa, I am 25 years old and I live in Beirut, Lebanon. My journey with LP4Y has been life changing. From feeling stuck in an ordinary life to now becoming one of the STARS (LP4Y alumni), these past six months have been some of the most beautiful days of my life. Before I participated in LP4Y, I used to ask myself, “Why am I in this life if I cannot achieve my dreams and leave my mark in life?" And I thought that this thing had become impossible, because I could not complete my education after I ran away from my home in Syria during the war.
I excelled in my studies back home but because of the war, the migration from our homes, and the circumstances that my country went through, I had to get married at a young age and have now two beautiful children.
After I grew up and became conscious, I knew that I had made a mistake, but it was too late. After all of this, I am only a stay-at-home mother. It's great to be a good mother but this was not only my dream, this was not the life I had planned.
I heard about LP4Y during Youth mobilization and I decided to join them. I did not expect that this step would change my life to this extent. It left a huge mark on my life!
I remember the first time I entered the center, I was hesitant and unsure about what to expect. But from the moment I was greeted with warmth and acceptance, I knew I was in the right place.
My self-confidence increased and I started to dream again after I had lost hope. I started to plan for a new future. I learned many valuable assets: life skills, computers, English language. I now improved my English, and learnt how to be professional and communicate with others, all this and more at LP4Y. Also, I became aware of what I want, what I love, what suits me, what I am able to achieve, I even got to discover more about my personality.
I advise every young woman who dreams about changing her life and achieving her dreams, to join LP4Y. In the beginning, you will feel that everything is difficult and different. You will think that you will not be able to complete the program, but with time you will get used to it and learn a lot. On the contrary, you will always say: "This is the best thing I did in my life!"
I will not stop here. I am just getting started. I will continue on my way until I achieve my dream. I may stumble or stop for a while, but I'll keep going because I deserve to be happy and to do what makes me happy.
I would like to thank the Coaches, especially for all the support they have given me, as well as all the Catalysts. I will miss you all. Thank you!
After graduating as an "Entrepreneur", Randa worked as a teacher for a while, before agreeing to replace a Coach at the Beirut center for a few weeks. With her calm personality and motivation, she has been able to handle the Coach tasks very well, spreading knowledge and enthusiasm among the new Youths!
Today she is training with a partner organization to become an administrative assistant. She will not lose any second to achieve her dream of being successful with the skills she acquired and will continue to gain!
It is always inspiring to see and witness the personal and professional development of the Youth. Truly an experience not to be forgotten, for both Youth and Catalysts!
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