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Location

Bar Elias, Lebanon

City / national level work

National with a local presence in Bar Elias

Date Established

2017

Initiated By

NGO/INGO

Type of initiative

Registered as an NGO

Areas of work

Arts and Culture, Education

Collaborating initiatives

UNESCO

Action for Hope


Mission and objectives

  1. Conducting cultural activities in displaced and marginalized communities to promote expression and creativity.
  2. Empowering youth, children, and women with skills, knowledge, and tools for storytelling, self-expression, and professional engagement in the arts.
  3. Contributing to cultural diversity in host countries by showcasing the work of young artists from displaced and marginalized groups.
  4. Preserving the cultural heritage of marginalized communities and supporting the study and practice of this heritage.
  5. Leading and fostering dialogue among civil society organizations to address the needs of refugees and vulnerable people with an emphasis on the role of art in meeting these needs.

Main activities with youth

From 14-25: Workshops and training sessions, including artistic and craftsmanship training. They provide grants to youth to support small profit generating projects.

Their story

Action for Hope was founded by a group of 17 Arab artists and cultural activists of various nationalities following a visit to Syrian Informal settlements in Kilis, southern Turkey, and nearby areas along the Syrian border. The initiative was motivated by the strong impact of displacement on refugees, including the breakdown of social fabric and the inadequacy of relief efforts to address the full extent of human losses. Action for Hope seeks to provide meaningful support beyond basic relief, addressing the cultural and social needs of displaced communities.

Constituency

The initiative works with youth from various nationalities, typically ranging in age from 14 to 25 years old, providing them with activities and programs.

They operate in their own centre, in public outdoor spaces (such as streets or parks), or in rented indoor venues (such as hotels or cultural centres).

Current management

The activities are organised by Arabs of various nationalities, including artists and activists. 

Use of digital tools

Active on their website and social media platforms (Facebook and Instagram).

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