Empower & Inspire: Honoring Refugees and MSMEs with SPARK!
Stichting SPARK
For over twenty five years, SPARK has been supporting vulnerable youth in fragile places to rebuild and create jobs
As June began, SPARK embraced World Refugee and MSMEs Days: At SPARK, we believe in the power of refugees and small businesses to drive economic growth and create vibrant communities. We work with our partners around the globe to support both through financial grants, access to new markets, access to finance, and coaching. This results in creating new jobs and supporting ecosystems in fragile states.
Refugees have been deprived of their homes, but they must not be deprived of their futures. Together, we have a responsibility to help them rebuild their lives and support their entrepreneurial spirit.
-Kofi Annan, former Secretary-General of the United Nations
Libya: "SPARK Your Curiosity" Event Ignites Entrepreneurial Spirit at the Libyan International University in Benghazi!
The event was a resounding success, with a vibrant atmosphere as students enthusiastically explored the transformative impact of SPARK's initiatives in Libya. The engagement was palpable as attendees delved into the workings of "Libya-Startup!", gaining insights from empowered entrepreneurs who shared their journey from ideas to thriving businesses. A major highlight was the announcement by the LIMU administrative board about incorporating entrepreneurship into their curriculum, marking a significant step towards nurturing future business leaders. The event was a true celebration of curiosity, innovation, and the spirit of community-driven change in Libya!
Learn more on SPARK Libya's Facebook page.
Hear from our expert: Dina Almasaeid
“By nurturing startups, we aim to cultivate a future marked by increased job opportunities and enhanced economic stability throughout the West Bank.”
More from our global programmes
Iraq: Empowering Youth: Networks of Change 2 Hosts Ranya Youth Festival
The Networks of Change 2 campaigners in Ranya, Iraq, organized a vibrant "Youth Festival" to promote vocational careers and community engagement. Attracting over 1,000 participants, the event showcased career opportunities and fostered youth resilience through arts, workshops, and local partnerships. This festival highlighted the importance of vocational careers and strengthened community ties, making a significant impact on the local youth.
Palestine: SPARK Signs Partnership with Birzeit University’s Center for Continuing Education
SPARK has signed a partnership agreement with Birzeit University ’s Center for Continuing Education under the Riyada programme, funded by the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development.
Over the next year, this project will empower Higher Education Institutions and Business Support Centres to enhance services for start-ups and SMEs in Palestine.
Entrepreneur of the Month: Meet Manal Mamou and Maysaa Alsaghyer
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“I came to Lebanon during the time of the war and searched for work but couldn’t find any,” “We wanted to find work, So we entered the field of food processing and manufacturing, myself and my friend Manal. We wanted to start our own business.”
Manal Mamou and Maysaa Alsaghyer, Syrian refugees in Lebanon, transformed adversity into opportunity by establishing MOUNET Al DAR cooperative. Driven by the need to support their families amidst crisis, they ventured into food processing. With STEP’s programme support, they overcame challenges, launched their brand, and empowered women in their community through employment.
Tunisia: Build Up Tunisia Programme Concludes with Inspiring Closing Ceremony
After 12 months of dedicated work, the Build Up Tunisia programme has successfully concluded. The closing ceremony featured a panel discussion on the challenges and opportunities encountered during the programme, providing valuable insights and inspiring all attendees.
Build Up Tunisia, an initiative by Flat6Labs in partnership with SPARK Tunisia and funded by the European Union under the 'From Innovation to Creation' programme, underscores our shared commitment to nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship in the region. This partnership has been pivotal in driving entrepreneurial growth and fostering a culture of innovation in Tunisia.
Kurdistan Region of Iraq: SPARK Delegation and Local Partners Visit Amsterdam to Advance Networks of Change 2 Initiative
A delegation from SPARK, along with local partners dedicated to preventing youth radicalization, visited Amsterdam as part of the Networks of Change 2 (NoC2) initiative. This visit will lead to the establishment of a Center of Excellence in Halabja, aimed at fostering dialogue and creating opportunities for Kurdish youth. The center will strengthen community resilience and promote positive change in the region.
Rwanda: SPARK Rwanda Joins JADF Isonga Open Day in Rusizi District
SPARK Rwanda is excited to participate in the Joint Action Development Forum (JADF) Isonga Open Day in Rusizi District! This event brings together development partners to showcase their activities and foster valuable exchanges with the public. Join us to learn more about our initiatives and connect with the community!
Celebrating Success: Final Event of Networks of Change 2 Campaign in Chamchamal
Join us on Tuesday, July 3rd, 2024, as the Networks of Change 2 campaign celebrates its remarkable achievements with a final event in Chamchamal. Experience the powerful impact of this initiative through campaign message videos and highlights from dedicated campaigners. Be inspired to take action and stay tuned for comprehensive coverage in next month’s newsletter!
Keep an eye on our channels for more details!
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GIS Analyst and Passionate Market System Development Practioner
5 个月Refugees carries along with them talent, skills and knowledge. These are the crucial resources that harnessing greatly contributes to livelihoods of the refugees and overall positive socio-economic outcomes for the host communities. We view refugees as both active participants in the output and inputs markets through their skills and products& services they supply to the different markets