Gaza self-development

Problem definition

Our target group is young people worldwide who accumulate problems in different areas of life: school, work, care, and safety. Millions of young people still live in extreme poverty. The young people have little to no prospects, which they discover at a young age. Many of them live in a survival mode resulting in loss of talent and potential. Multiple studies show that youth unemployment in many countries is high. According to the International Labor Organization (Technology and the future of jobs, 2020, p. 33), the highest unemployment among youth rate is from the Northern African and Arab states, at around 2.2. and 1.7 times the global rate, respectively.

Within the Palestine state, the unemployment rate has increased substantially as stated by the International Labour Organization (2020). Within Gaza, the unemployment rate increased by 3.6% in the second quarter of 2020 compared to the previous quarter (International Labour Organization, 2020). The unemployment in Gaza is significantly higher than the rest of the Palestinian areas. The Covid-19 outbreak has also worsened the situation. As claimed by Nada Dirouch from Gaza: “Many young people are unable to go to school or work due to the circumstances”.

The project

The idea is to offer a ‘basic needs’ training/mentorship program. With the program, we are aimed to create a positive and sustainable vision for their future. A simple example could be classes about mindfulness or self-being. The content of the programs is based on the ‘human-centered design’ to understand the interests of the youth.

Different subjects are taught at Dar Kalima. However, we believe it is crucial to consider the importance of mental health and how we can support these young participants. According to Wagner et al. (2020) exposure to violence is a significant risk factor for the development of psychopathology in young people. Research shows the consequences of violent exposure on mental health for young Palestinians. Therefore, we find it important to provide classes that support their mental well-being. Our foundation provides a program that covers the needs and wants of these youth.
In collaboration with various entrepreneurs, organizations, and volunteers, we strive for a holistic perspective to offer young people the opportunity for self-development. The volunteers (board and central team) at the Planet Inaba foundation are well-educated with relevant and professional work experience. This increases the reach of the foundation and brings us in contact with interesting trainers for several programs.

Realization

The participants from Dar al Kalima followed a four-month program on different subjects on how to start a successful business such as soft business skills, digital marketing, finance, and business coaching. The final phase was setting up a business. The participants had the opportunity to pitch their creative idea during our Shark Tank event (business competition).
Our participants were full of energy and confidence, and all of them showcased amazing projects. While all contestants are winners in our eyes, we’re excited to announce that Salem Awwad is our grand prize winner! He received €2500 from Planet Inaba to help him purchase a machine that will allow him to mass-produce and distribute his project of wood toys. But that’s not all – all other participants received €300 each to help them continue their amazing work. That makes a €4000 total.

Success Stories

• Salem Awwad: Our grand prize winner who received €2500 from Planet Inaba to help him purchase a machine that will allow him to mass-produce and distribute his project of wood toys.
• All other participants received €300 each to help them continue their amazing work.

Campaign

You can support our upcoming similar project in Palestine by making a donation via our button below. Your donation will help us continue our work with young people in Palestine and around the world.

Thank you for supporting our mission!