Abed Al Ilah’s Journey: From Struggles to Success a “Self-employed famer”

Abed Al Ilah, a 28-year-old Syrian refugee, fled his home in 2012 due to the ongoing war, leaving behind his education and the life he once knew. Having dropped out of school in grade 5, he had limited opportunities and, in Lebanon, first worked as a daily laborer in agriculture. However, the instability of daily work left him struggling to provide for his family. Feeling stuck and overwhelmed, he battled depression, unsure of how to create a better future.

Despite the challenges, Abed Al Ilah didn't lose his love for farming. “I’ve loved farming since I was young,” he shares. His passion eventually led him to enroll in the Competency-Based Training (CBT) Agriculture course offered by UNICEF and its partners, The program not only provided him with advanced agricultural skills but also equipped him with Functional and Life Skills and —essential tools for building self-confidence. These included time management, leadership, communication, and marketing, all of which played a pivotal role in transforming his outlook on life. “Through the courses, my mental health improved, I gained responsibilities, became independent, and now I love waking up early every day to do something new,” he says.

After completing the CBT course, Abed Al Ilah transitioned to cash for work and then the business start-up program, where he learned how to establish and manage his own agricultural business. He learned to effectively balance his time, identify new market opportunities, and navigate challenges with confidence. With this solid foundation, he began producing high-quality cucumbers, tomatoes, green beans, and eggplants using greenhouses. His project stood out among others and was selected as one of the top initiatives to receive support, allowing him to further scale his operations.

Starting with just one greenhouse, Abed Al Ilah’s hard work and determination have led to an incredible transformation. Today, he owns and manages ten farming tents / greenhouses, which produce a wide range of crops for the local market. As his business flourished, he saved his earnings and rented a home for his family, giving them a stable and secure living environment. “I started with one farm and now manage ten farms. I have a project and a source of income. I was even able to rent a house for my family and children,” he shares proudly.

Beyond his personal success, Abed Al Ilah’s journey has created a ripple effect in his community. His growing business has provided job opportunities for other youth in the skilling programme, helping to uplift and support those around him. “Through the course, I learned, developed myself, received support, and now I am a productive self-employed farmer” he explains.

The Learning to Earning programs empower youth in Lebanon by providing the skills, resources, and confidence they need to achieve financial independence and fulfill their potential.

This initiative is made possible by the generous support of the German Government through KfW Development Bank, driving positive change for both the community and the youth involved.