My name is Marwa, I am 29 years old, and I have been living in Lebanon since 2016 after fleeing the conflict in Syria.

Life has not been easy. Two years ago, my husband traveled to Iraq, leaving me alone to care for our two daughters, aged 5 and 7. The responsibility was overwhelming, but I knew I had to keep moving forward for their sake and for my own future.

In 2025, I joined the Livelihood Program at the JRS Social Center in Baalbek, where I enrolled in a nail design course. I successfully completed all three phases of the program: vocational training, internship, and entrepreneurship support.

Through this course, I developed advanced nail care techniques and creative design skills. I also began offering services to women in their homes, including nail care and basic cleaning services, which provided me with both income and a renewed sense of purpose.

Despite the challenges of balancing training with caring for my children, I remained committed. This profession quickly became something I truly love. It allows me to express my creativity and brings me joy each time I help someone feel confident and beautiful.

On April 30, 2025, I took part in the pitching day, where I presented my project to open a small nail salon. I am proud to share that my project was selected as a winner. This achievement gave me a strong sense of motivation and strengthened my belief in my future.

This experience has not only equipped me with practical skills, but it has also helped me rebuild my confidence, strengthen my independence, and connect more deeply with my community. My dream is to open my own nail salon, and thanks to the support of the program, I am one step closer to turning that dream into reality.