I started with no clear goals and gradually developed my skills, little by little, until I reached where I am now.
The government alone cannot sustain the monitoring and implementation of social protection activities without the support of partners like the European Union.
Project T04.235: Towards an inclusive national social protection system and accelerating decent job opportunities for Syrians and vulnerable Jordanians
Implementing Partners: ILO-UNICEF
Sector: Social Protection
Short Bio
Yazan Al Khudari, a 21-year-old Syrian who moved to Jordan at the age of ten, has risen to the position of assistant operator at a factory. Through his dedication and hard work, he is now able to support his family. Meanwhile, Mais Abdeen, Head of the Unit for Monitoring the Implementation of the National Social Protection Strategy at the Ministry of Social Development in Jordan, is committed to ensuring the provision of adequate social services across the country.
Early Struggles and Determination
Forced to flee his homeland at age ten, Yazan Al-Khudari, a 21-year-old Syrian, arrived in Jordan without formal education or clear ambitions. His early years in Jordan were far from easy. “From working in a restaurant to selling household items, and then to working in a paint store, I tried just about every job available,” he recalls. Despite instability and a lack of education, Yazan never gave up. “I started with no clear goals and gradually developed my skills, little by little, until I reached where I am now.”
A Transformative Opportunity
Yazan’s big break came when he started working at the Palmira plastic factory. “I began as a production worker and got trained by the head engineer. Since then, I have been promoted gradually,” he says with pride. “I love to tackle challenges, which motivated me to pursue this career.” His hard work has paid off; having started as a production worker, Yazan now supervises two employees and shares his knowledge with them.
Supporting Family and Future Aspirations
As the primary breadwinner, Yazan takes on significant responsibility. “I am the main caretaker of the household. With my father injured, the financial responsibility for him, my mother, and my younger brother falls on me,” he explains. Despite these pressures, he remains optimistic and motivated. “This job is the best I have ever had. The support, guidance, and respect I receive from the engineers are remarkable.”
The Role of Social Protection and Support
Yazan has benefited from the support of the EU Regional Trust Fund in Response to the Syrian Crisis (Madad), through a project that enhances social protection and employment for Syrians and vulnerable Jordanians. This initiative aims to strengthen national systems for better access to the labour market and the creation of decent work opportunities.
Ensuring Effective Social Services
Mais Abdeen, Head of the Unit for Monitoring the Implementation of the National Social Protection Strategy at the Ministry of Social Development, underscores the importance of support for young people like Yazan. “We work to efficiently provide social services and assistance to everyone living in Jordan, enhancing the overall quality of life,” Mais says, emphasizing the role of partnerships in achieving these goals. “The government alone cannot sustain the monitoring and implementation of social protection activities without the support of partners like the European Union,” she notes.
Looking Ahead: Aspirations and Advice
Yazan’s advice to young people reflects his journey: “Keep being positive, keep trying, and keep working hard.” His determination to continue learning and growing is clear. “I am passionate about studying and would like to major in engineering.”