Our Story
Once upon a time, there was destruction; today, there is creative art
In a region once overshadowed by conflict, where the echoes of war whispered through the streets of Tripoli, a remarkable transformation began to take shape.
MARCH Lebanon, a dedicated peace-building non-profit, recognized the urgent need to heal the deep wounds left by sectarian violence in the neighborhoods of Jabal Mohsen and Beb el Tebbeneh.
These communities, once divided by animosity and distrust, were desperate for a new beginning. The future seemed bleak, but within this darkness, the seeds of change were planted.
Our Story
The Challenge of Healing a Divided Community
Until 2014, these neighborhoods were not just separated by physical barriers but by a painful history of conflict. The youth, particularly former fighters, were caught in a cycle of violence and despair, with limited opportunities for a brighter future.
The need for a solution was clear: a way to bridge the divides, restore peace, and empower the youth to reclaim their lives through meaningful opportunities.
In response, March Lebanon launched Kanyamakan Designs as part of their conflict resolution and reintegration programs, fostering hope and unity in a once-divided community.
Once upon a time, there was war; today, there is love.
The Birth of Kanyamakan Designs
Kanyamakan Designs was inspired by the belief that every piece of art tells a story of love, war, and transformation.
The name “Kanyamakan” meaning “There Was a Time” in Arabic, captures this essence, reflecting the idea that each creation holds a narrative.
Launched in 2020 by MARCH Lebanon, Kanyamakan Designs began as a vibrant initiative that transforms conflict into creativity, soon blossoming into a beacon of hope and resilience.
Born on the historic Syria Street in Tripoli, the former demarcation line, this community hub brought together past adversaries to dismantle the barriers that once divided them.
Through their art, former fighters and marginalized youth share their personal journeys, weaving tales of love and conflict into each piece.
This endeavor empowered young individuals through vocational training in humanitarian craftsmanship, enabling them to rebuild their lives and communities by creating unique pieces of art.
Their stories of war have now become powerful symbols of unity and transformation.
Our Mission is to Empower Peace-Building Through Creative Collaboration
At Kanyamakan Designs, we harness the transformative power of art and craftsmanship to heal communities, break down barriers, and build bridges where once there were walls.
Our mission is to empower marginalized youth and former fighters by offering vocational training that fosters social cohesion, personal growth, and economic sustainability.
Through creative projects, we unite individuals from different backgrounds, enabling them to work together, share ideas, and collaborate on meaningful artistic endeavors.
This process not only serves as healing therapy but also cultivates a strong sense of community and shared purpose.
Our Vision for a Future Shaped by Creativity and Unity
We envision a future where creativity triumphs over conflict and where the youth of Tripoli can thrive in an inclusive environment that celebrates their talents, stories, and potential.
Kanyamakan Designs provides a safe haven where innovation flourishes, and every individual has the opportunity to contribute to a shared narrative of love, acceptance, and healing.
Not just a workplace
it’s a sanctuary of enthusiasm, collaboration, and personal growth, where fraternal bonds are formed, and art becomes a means of building a peaceful, united community.
Our Purpose is to Transform Lives Through Humanitarian Craftsmanship
At Kanyamakan Designs we aim to integrate youth from diverse sectarian backgrounds in Tripoli and to provide them with sustainable opportunities for growth and self-reliance.
By equipping these young individuals with valuable skills in furniture making, fashion design, calligraphy, and more, we are not only helping them secure a brighter future but also enabling them to become catalysts for positive change within their communities.
Through these humanitarian craft projects, we strive to inspire a new generation of creators who can rebuild and revitalize their world through the transformative power of art.
New Beginnings of Unity and Creativity
Today, the artisans of Kanyamakan are not just survivors; they are “creators, innovators, and storytellers”.
The profound impact of MARCH Lebanon and Kanyamakan Designs has transformed a conflict-affected building on the former demarcation line into an inclusive community hub that serves as a safe space for former enemies to collaborate and grow together.
The Kanyamakan hub offers on-the-job training in various crafts, culinary arts, gardening, and graphic design, all while fostering a spirit of camaraderie and shared purpose.
They are replacing hatred with love, transforming their lives and communities through art and creativity.
By embracing their carefully crafted design items, you are not only supporting their journey but also spreading a powerful message of hope and acceptance.
Lea Baroudy
“When we empower marginalized youth and give them a platform to express themselves, we not only change their lives but also plant the seeds of peace for generations to come.”
Founder of MARCH Lebanon
