who we are
Syrian Eyes, a voluntary team founded on October 27, 2013, in Lebanon, stands as a testament to the power of motivated youth united by a shared belief in human rights. This dynamic group is fueled by the conviction that all individuals are inherently equal, championing the idea that those in need are not merely beneficiaries but rights holders deserving dignity, compassion, and support.
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At its core, Syrian Eyes is driven by a commitment to humanitarian values and a vision of a world where everyone, regardless of background or circumstance, is treated with respect and granted their fundamental rights. This noble cause has led the team to engage in a range of impactful activities aimed at making a positive difference in the lives of communities facing adversity.
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WHAT WE DO
emergency response
Following the Beirut port blast, an incident that affected us as volunteers living in the same area, our response was swift and multifaceted.
In the wake of the blast, we funded kitchens, assisted in rubble cleanup, and provided support to families who lost their homes. Our efforts extended to funding safe houses for migrants, offering a secure haven during this crisis and beyond. Syrian Eyes remains dedicated to immediate, comprehensive, and compassionate aid, embodying resilience and hope in the face of adversity. In the aftermath of wildfires, Syrian Eyes collaborated with civil defense, offering both volunteers and equipment. This collaborative effort extended to working with other groups, showcasing our commitment to a united response in times of crisis.
Amid Lebanon's economic challenges, we supported migrant domestic workers, recognizing their vulnerability. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Syrian Eyes swiftly provided essential sanitation products to refugee camps and migrant community safe houses. Our teams distributed sanitizers, masks, and hygiene kits, prioritizing the health of those in precarious conditions. This initiative not only addressed immediate health concerns but also underscored our commitment to the well-being of marginalized communities. In the face of the global health crisis, Syrian Eyes demonstrated adaptability and unwavering dedication to humanitarian principles, ensuring vulnerable populations had access to necessary tools for safeguarding their health.
sustainable DevelopmentSyrian Eyes has been a catalyst for community development by creating sustainable job opportunities that empower individuals and foster self-sufficiency. One notable initiative is the Bakery Project in the Jarrahieh refugee camp, which not only provided meaningful employment for six women but also supplied essential bread to 500 families over a span of three years. This project not only addressed economic challenges but also became a source of nourishment and stability for numerous families within the camp.
In addition to the Bakery Project, Syrian Eyes has spearheaded an innovative Agricultural Project aimed at promoting self-sustainability within the camps. This project involves the cultivation of crops directly within the camp premises, offering both job opportunities and educational programs on sustainable farming practices. By integrating agricultural initiatives, Syrian Eyes not only creates employment opportunities but also imparts valuable knowledge, empowering individuals to grow their own food and contribute to the long-term resilience of the community. Through these impactful development projects, Syrian Eyes has not only offered immediate economic relief but has also laid the foundation for lasting change. By providing job opportunities and fostering self-sustainability, the organization is actively shaping a more resilient and empowered future for individuals within refugee camps. These initiatives underscore Syrian Eyes' commitment to holistic community development, addressing both economic challenges and the broader goal of building self-sufficient and thriving communities. |
Emergency response
In response to various crises,over the past ten years, Syrian Eyes has been a steadfast source of relief and support. During harsh winters in refugee camps, our teams on the ground provided tons of heating supplies, medical assistance, and rehabilitated tents. We addressed immediate needs by distributing food, clothing, and blankets, emphasizing dignity in the face of adversity. In addition to our ongoing commitment to crisis response, Syrian Eyes played a pivotal role in leading a coalition of activist groups and artists in Lebanon. In response to the earthquake in Syria, we spearheaded a crowdfunding initiative that garnered support from a diverse range of contributors. The funds raised were instrumental in providing aid to local groups in Syria, where we established kitchens in damaged areas, contributing to the sustenance and well-being of affected communities.
Our efforts extended beyond immediate relief, as we actively participated in the rehabilitation of damaged buildings. Through this initiative, we facilitated the return of families to their homes, helping restore a semblance of normalcy in the aftermath of the earthquake. Recognizing the specific needs of vulnerable populations, Syrian Eyes directed attention to elderly nursing homes. We supported these institutions by implementing solar systems, addressing energy needs, and rehabilitating stairs for improved accessibility. This holistic approach aimed at enhancing the quality of life for elderly residents, ensuring their well-being and comfort in the wake of the earthquake. MEDICAL SUPPORT In response to the dire economic conditions faced by refugees, migrant communities, and the local populace, Syrian Eyes has undertaken a robust Medical Support Program, addressing critical healthcare needs. The team's dedication to improving access to medical services is exemplified through the establishment of a local clinic staffed by two doctors. This fully equipped facility not only provided free medicines and tests but also served as a beacon of hope for refugees grappling with health challenges.
Recognizing the limitations in accessing medical services in remote areas, Syrian Eyes initiated a Mobile Clinic. Manned by a dedicated doctor, this mobile unit ventured into far-reaching rural areas, ensuring that refugees with limited access to healthcare received free check-ups and essential medicines. This proactive approach brought medical relief directly to those in need, bridging gaps in healthcare accessibility. A testament to Syrian Eyes' long-term commitment is its ongoing project dedicated to covering medical cases that fall through the gaps of support provided by other NGOs. Over the span of 10 years of voluntary work, the team has facilitated over 5,000 surgeries in hospitals across Lebanon. This comprehensive initiative extends beyond borders, covering a diverse range of medical interventions such as cancer medicines, heart surgeries, and eye surgeries. Importantly, this support is extended to individuals of all nationalities and ages, emphasizing inclusivity and providing a lifeline for the vulnerable.
Syrian Eyes has become a beacon of compassion and healing, reaffirming the belief that quality healthcare is a fundamental right regardless of nationality or economic status. Through these impactful medical projects, the team has not only alleviated immediate health concerns but has also sown seeds of resilience, offering a glimmer of hope to those navigating the challenging landscapes of health disparities in the region. |
art & education
Over the transformative journey of the last decade, Syrian Eyes has been a relentless force, championing the cause of art education and recreational empowerment through the establishment of two dynamic community centers in distinct refugee camps. Our unwavering commitment to unleashing the creative spirit has seen us implement a myriad of art projects, igniting the flames of self-expression among the resilient children in our care. Through these visionary initiatives, we've not merely offered an artistic outlet but have sown the seeds of empowerment, allowing these young minds to articulate their thoughts and emotions in a symphony of colors and forms.
One monumental triumph emerged as a testament to the indomitable spirit of our young artists—an art exhibition that transcended borders and showcased the brilliance of refugee children's creations on the global stage, right in the heart of Canada. Beyond the strokes of a paintbrush, these artworks became powerful narratives, amplifying the unheard voices of the camp, while also standing as beacons of hope that inspired generosity. This exhibition was not merely an art showcase; it was a bold statement, a rallying cry that echoed across oceans, helping raise funds that reverberated back to empower and uplift their communities.
In the crucible of creativity, Syrian Eyes is not merely shaping art; we are shaping futures. We believe in the redemptive power of the arts, in their ability to transcend adversity, and in their capacity to unite and heal. Each stroke of a paintbrush, each captured frame, and each spoken word is a testament to the resilience and potential within every individual, irrespective of circumstance. This is not just an artistic journey; it's a movement, a passionate commitment to rewriting the narrative of refugee communities and instilling within them the belief that their stories matter, their voices resonate, and their future is boundless.
One monumental triumph emerged as a testament to the indomitable spirit of our young artists—an art exhibition that transcended borders and showcased the brilliance of refugee children's creations on the global stage, right in the heart of Canada. Beyond the strokes of a paintbrush, these artworks became powerful narratives, amplifying the unheard voices of the camp, while also standing as beacons of hope that inspired generosity. This exhibition was not merely an art showcase; it was a bold statement, a rallying cry that echoed across oceans, helping raise funds that reverberated back to empower and uplift their communities.
In the crucible of creativity, Syrian Eyes is not merely shaping art; we are shaping futures. We believe in the redemptive power of the arts, in their ability to transcend adversity, and in their capacity to unite and heal. Each stroke of a paintbrush, each captured frame, and each spoken word is a testament to the resilience and potential within every individual, irrespective of circumstance. This is not just an artistic journey; it's a movement, a passionate commitment to rewriting the narrative of refugee communities and instilling within them the belief that their stories matter, their voices resonate, and their future is boundless.
But our passion doesn't stop there. Syrian Eyes has extended its transformative touch to encompass youth and adults, delving into the realms of cinema, photography, and storytelling. These projects are not just artistic endeavors; they are powerful vehicles of self-expression and awareness. They are catalysts for change, igniting flames of creativity that illuminate the path to resilience and unity. Through the lens of cinema, the click of a camera, and the spoken word, we empower individuals of all ages to reclaim their narratives, to craft stories that echo the strength of their spirit and the richness of their experiences.
Syria in my mind heritage education
The SYRIA IN MY MINDHeritage Education Project, orchestrated by the Syrian Eyes team, unfolded as a monumental journey of cultural exploration that spanned the entire landscape of Lebanon. Across two comprehensive phases spanning two years, the team embarked on a dynamic tour, reaching every corner of the country, from schools to camps and neighborhoods. This ambitious initiative was characterized by its inclusivity, ensuring that the transformative impact of heritage education touched the lives of diverse communities.
In the first phase, the team meticulously planned and executed visits to schools, immersing students in the rich tapestry of Syria's cultural heritage. The interactive sessions, featuring hands-on activities and engaging discussions, brought history to life, fostering a sense of pride and connection among the students. This initial phase laid the groundwork for a broader outreach effort.
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Building on the success of the school visits, the second phase extended the tour to refugee camps and various neighborhoods, ensuring that the Heritage Education Project reached individuals from different walks of life. This approach was integral to the project's ethos, emphasizing inclusivity and recognizing the importance of cultural preservation for everyone, regardless of their circumstances.
By touring all regions of Lebanon, Syrian Eyes not only democratized access to heritage education but also facilitated a shared cultural experience that transcended geographical and social boundaries. The team's dedication to reaching diverse communities reflects a commitment to fostering a collective understanding and appreciation for Syria's rich history. This comprehensive and extended tour became a cornerstone of the Heritage Education Project, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural consciousness of individuals throughout Lebanon. |
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MY eyes
The "My Eyes" project, in collaboration with photographer and artist Felipe Jacome, empowers children to express their stories and dreams. Through a unique blend of writing and art, kids project their narratives onto self-portraits, enhancing them with vibrant paints. This transformative initiative not only cultivates artistic skills but also amplifies the voices of young storytellers, turning their portraits into powerful canvases of self-expression. "My Eyes" is a celebration of creativity, individuality, and the profound impact of merging storytelling with visual art.
looking closely
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This animated video succinctly illustrates the construction of living structures in refugee camps, made with nylon and wood to endure harsh winters and storms. The visuals serve as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by families living in these makeshift homes for extended periods, prompting reflection on their endurance in the face of adversity.
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we love connecting
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OUR GOAl
Syrian Eyes: Defying oppression, racism, and extremism. With a committed team, we advocate for justice, reject compromised funds, and stand unwavering in the fight for a world free from exploitation and oppression.
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