Israa Al Tellawi, a 23-year-old from Lebanon, faced significant challenges when financial hardships forced her to drop out from education at grade 9. While she had the passion and determination, she lacked the resources and training to turn any of her career prospects into reality.
When Israa came across a Facebook post about a chocolate-making training program offered by UNICEF and its partners, she saw it as her chance to build a better future. “I thought to myself, I hope I’ll be accepted. And when I was, I couldn’t have been happier. I started dancing” she recalls.
Israa joined the competency-based training (CBT) program coupled with 150 hours of hands-on training in chocolate-making at the Al Amine factory, where she mastered the art of crafting chocolates. The program also focused on building essential functional English literacy in addition to life skills such as leadership and effective communication. “The course was amazing. It boosted my confidence and taught me to trust myself, even when facing challenges,” Israa shares. Her hard work and dedication earned her distinction and the opportunity to showcase her skills at the Chocolate Festival Week following the CFW.
Encouraged by her success, Israa enrolled in the business start-up program to further develop her entrepreneurial skills. She gained valuable knowledge in product pricing, marketing, creating a professional social media presence, and identifying her business needs. With the equipment and support provided by the program, Israa successfully launched her own chocolate-making business from home. Her handmade chocolates quickly gained recognition in local shops, allowing her to steadily expand production to meet the growing demand.
Today, Israa is not just a skilled chocolatier but a thriving young entrepreneur with a clear vision for her future. “I love being successful, and I don’t like to stop. Even if I face difficulties, I’ve learned to keep going no matter what,” she says proudly. Israa has transformed her passion into a thriving business. Israa is ramping up production, demonstrating her commitment to growing her entrepreneurial venture.
Learning to earning programs empowers 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.
