Building Change from the Ground Up: Youth Redefining Community Spaces in South Lebanon
Through the Youth Empowerment in South Lebanon Project 2025, funded by UNIFIL and implemented by UNICEF and UNESCO, young people are transforming recovery into renewal—creating spaces of purpose, unity, and hope
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In the aftermath of the recent conflict in South Lebanon, youth are stepping forward to rebuild both their communities and a renewed sense of hope. Through the Youth Empowerment in South Lebanon Project 2025 , funded by UNIFIL and implemented by UNICEF and UNESCO, they are turning recovery into opportunity. The project supports youth in conflict-affected areas, and the host communities by strengthening their leadership, digital skills, civic engagement, and access to economic opportunities, empowering them to drive change from within their communities.
Every change begins with learning. For these young leaders, rebuilding their communities started with rebuilding their own skills, confidence, and connection to one another.
From Learning to Earning
Over five intensive days, 240 young participants from Tyre, Deir Qanoun Al-Nahr, Abbassieh, and nearby villages took part in life skills sessions focused on civic engagement, life skills, communication, teamwork, and planning. These sessions became the foundation for transformation, helping them identify strengths, exchange ideas, and design solutions that address their communities’ real needs. They emerged with stronger skills and a renewed sense of ownership and purpose. With support from their municipalities and local partners, they began transforming their ideas into youth-led initiatives that directly tackle local challenges.
“I learned about this course through the Deir Qanoun municipality and decided to join. I gained a lot of practical and personal experience,” shared Amina, 17, from Deir Qanoun Al-Nahr. “I learned how to communicate and collaborate positively with others. My view on volunteering has changed, now I have a stronger desire to help people.”
Mahdi, also 17, added: “It was my first time joining such a course, and it changed me. I met new friends and learned skills that truly shaped my personality.”
Rebuilding Through Youth Leadership
Building on what they learned, and after completing a community needs assessment in Deir Qanoun Al-Nahr, Tyre, and surrounding villages, participants began translating their ideas into action. Two youth-led initiatives, the Energy Zone and the Pine House Library are already bringing new life and hope to their communities.
The Pine House Library: After assessing their village’s needs, including traffic congestion, waste management, lack of spaces for persons with disabilities, activities for the elderly, and an inactive public library, youth selected library rehabilitation for its wide social impact. Located in the heart of Deir Qanoun Al-Nahr’s public garden, the Pine House Library is being revived as an accessible cultural hub open to all residents. It will serve as a space for reading, learning, and community engagement.
“At the end of the training, we created a small library with books and computers for people in our area,” said Maryam, 17. “There’s no public library here, it’s a safe space for students and book lovers.”
The Energy Zone- A Sports Area: Recognizing the importance of sports for mental and physical well-being, another youth group transformed part of the public garden near the rural house into an outdoor sports area, the Energy Zone. This new space provides free and safe access to exercise facilities, encouraging a healthy lifestyle amid growing social and economic pressures.
“We wanted to put what we learned into action,” said Fatima, 17, from Deir Qanoun Al-Nahr. “Our idea was to create a safe, open space for people in our area, even if it’s small, it’s something real that brings people together and makes a difference.”
Looking Ahead
While the Energy Zone and Pine House Library are already active, several other youth-led initiatives are emerging across South Lebanon each reflecting the creativity, social cohesion, and leadership of youth determined to turn recovery into renewal.
In Abbassieh, the “A Safe Road for All” initiative is illuminating the town’s 6 main street with 80 solar-powered lights, improving safety, reducing accidents, and restoring residents’ sense of security.
In Tyre, a series of initiatives are reshaping public spaces and strengthening community ties:
“Reviving Tyre Public Garden”
“Reviving Tyre Public Garden” is transforming the city’s central park into a vibrant, inclusive hub for families, children, and people with disabilities, a space that celebrates Tyre’s heritage through art, local crafts, and cultural performances.
“Our Field is Life”
“Our Field is Life” focuses on rehabilitating the playground near Tyre’s clock area by adding benches, waste bins, and organized sports activities, creating a safe and engaging environment for families and children.
“Sports for All”
“Sports for All” is revitalizing a neglected public park near Tyre Rest House into an inclusive fitness space equipped with outdoor sports and play facilities, promoting physical wellbeing and social cohesion across generations.
All these initiatives demonstrate how learning turns into leadership and how youth, when given the tools and trust, can rebuild their communities with purpose, unity, and hope.
The Youth Empowerment in South Lebanon Project, is funded by UNIFIL and implemented by UNICEF and UNESCO.
