Basmeh & Zeitooneh


Mission and objectives

1. Providing education, relief services, and livelihood opportunities for refugees.
2. Offering employment for women and empowering families to live with dignity.

Main activities with youth

From 14–18 years old: Psychological support sessions, distribution of stationery and educational supplies, and participation in distributing food and essentials.

From 18–25 years old: Training sessions, support for small projects, and involvement in distributing food, stationery, and other essentials.

Their story

Basmeh and Zeitooneh was founded by Syrian expatriates in Lebanon in response to the increasing number of refugees and the ongoing war. The initiative began in Shatila, a marginalized and impoverished Palestinian refugee camp that had welcomed thousands of Syrians despite facing immense hardships. Motivated by the need to create a safe space for refugees, the organization focuses on fostering a culture of friendship and support.

Constituency

The initiative collaborates with youth of various nationalities with a focus on Syrian expatriates aged 14 to 25 years old.

They meet young people in their own centre, public outdoor locations (such as a street or park), or in a rented indoor space (like  hotels or cultural centers).

Current management

The association is managed by Syrian expatriates aged between 30 and 40 years old. They oversee the organisation’s policies and activities.

Use of digital tools

They promote their activities on their website, publish educational material and share grants and other forms of support they offer