Beirut: The Environment and Sustainable Development Unit (ESDU) at the Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences (FAFS) at the American University of Beirut (AUB), in collaboration with AUB's NEXT STEP Program, hosted the "Inclusive Green Jobs and Skills Fair: A Festival of Sustainability and Inclusion."
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the event, held at Sioufi Garden, marked a highlight of ESDU's 25th anniversary celebrations and formed part of the Sustainable Integrated Municipal Actions (SiMA) project's grant component, funded by the German government through KfW Development Bank and implemented in partnership with the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS).
Taking place during Global Diversity Awareness Month, the fair brought together a community of people with special abilities, companies, NGOs, and public figures, celebrating empowerment, sustainability, and inclusion. It underscored how Lebanon's green economy can flourish through diversity, collaboration, and equal opportunities.
The day opened with introductions by event emcee Yara Hindy, journalist and reporter at MTV Lebanon, and ESDU's new ambassador. Dr. Ammar Olabi, dean of FAFS at AUB, delivered the first speech highlighting that true sustainability includes people as much as the environment, calling for an inclusive green transition that empowers individuals with special abilities.
In the second keynote speech, Dr. Shady Hamadeh, executive director of ESDU at AUB, highlighted the Sioufi Garden project as a model for revitalizing public spaces through community engagement, equitable green job opportunities, and shared responsibility.
Mona Agha Maktabi, director of the NEXT STEP Program at AUB, discussed the program's efforts to promote inclusion as a culture that empowers individuals with special abilities to learn, work, and contribute fully.
Hayssam Sayfan, Beirut Governor's advisor, representing Governor of Beirut Marwan Abboud, delivered a thank-you note acknowledging the efforts of authorities and entities in rehabilitating Sioufi Garden. He expressed the Beirut Governorate's willingness to provide support to maintain this public garden as a space for the entire Sioufi and surrounding communities.
Concluding the speeches, Dr. Ramona Al Danaf, president of the Lebanese Association for Sustainability and Social Responsibility (LASSR), emphasized support for people with special needs, viewing diversity as a societal strength. She thanked ESDU at AUB for its pioneering initiative in organizing the event.
Following the opening addresses, attendees enjoyed a musical performance by violinist Gaelle Imad and percussionist Elias Kattan. Their performance reflected the spirit of the event, celebrating inclusion through creativity and artistic expression.
The event continued with motivational talks under the theme "Inspiring Journeys of Sports and Success," featuring personal stories from co-founders of Shooting Stars Academy, Rayan Mahfouz and Ayman El Kadi, and NEXT STEP Program fellow Omar Mussa.
Attendees explored interactive booths showcasing innovative green solutions, sustainable practices, and inclusive employment opportunities, engaging directly with representatives from companies, NGOs, and institutions committed to environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
The exhibition featured entities that contribute to sustainable practices and employ people with special abilities, including Gray Mackenzie Retail Lebanon S.A.L (GMRL), NokNok, Coral Oil Company Limited, Beit Kanz, Beit al Baraka, TAQA Snacks, Arcenciel, Eshmoon, Agricom, Architecture in a Box, Ardi Ardak, Georges N. Frem Foundation (GNFF), and AUB's NEXT STEP Program, supported by Agonista Coffee.
The Inclusive Green Jobs and Skills Fair reaffirmed AUB's ESDU and NEXT STEP Program's commitment to empowering individuals, advancing equitable employment, and fostering sustainable livelihoods throughout Lebanon.