One Opportunity, A New Beginning: Miguel’s Pathway to Employment in Healthcare

Miguel has lived with a disability caused by oxygen deprivation at birth, which affected his learning throughout his life. After experiencing difficulties in the traditional academic system, he enrolled at Kafaat, where he studied printing for two years. However, Lebanon’s economic crisis and the financial pressures facing his family forced him to discontinue his studies.

“I was very afraid of becoming isolated,” Miguel says.

Miguel was later outreached for a Healthcare Assistant training implemented under UNICEF’s Learning to Earning programme, funded by the German Government through KfW Development Bank. “This opportunity completely changed the course of my life. It protected my future and gave me hope,” he says.

Through theoretical learning, practical training, life skills training and work-based experience, Miguel developed the technical and personal skills needed to work in the healthcare sector. “The programme gave me confidence and guidance,” he says. “Despite the challenges, I was determined to succeed and worked hard day and night.”

Miguel completed the programme’s competency-based training and Cash for Work components. During his placement at Hôpital Abou Jaoudé, his commitment, professionalism and willingness to learn were recognized by the supervising team. Following the placement, Miguel was employed as an orderly in the hospital’s maternity department.

“I am very proud to have been employed and to have become a permanent member of the team,” he says. “I now have an income and can support my family and stand by their side.”

Miguel’s experience shows how inclusive learning opportunities can help young people develop skills and access employment. Through the Learning to Earning programme, UNICEF, with support from the German Government through KfW Development Bank, continues to help young people across Lebanon build their skills and strengthen their livelihoods, even in challenging circumstances.