My childhood was filled with joy and happiness," Nadira recalls about her early years in Syria. However, the final two years in her homeland were deeply challenging. "During that time, my father constantly moved us from one city to another, driven by an overwhelming responsibility to protect us amidst the turmoil of war"
"Never give up on your education. Education changes your outlook and gives you the strength to demand the respect and opportunities you rightly deserve.
Project T04.220 - Higher and Further Education Opportunities and Perspectives for Syrians and vulnerable youth in Lebanon: HOPES Lebanon. Specific initiative within HOPES Leb: Remote Internships in the Digital Era, “RIDE,” implemented by Laser
Implementing Partner
German Academic Exchange Service, DAAD
Sector
Higher Education
Short Bio
Nadira Al-Hasani, a Syrian national, resides in Tripoli, Lebanon. She studies Business Management at the Southern New Hampshire University. She attended the Research and Administrative Assistant program and successfully completed an internship as part of the EUTF Syria-funded HOPES Lebanon project “Remote Internships in the Digital Era (RIDE),” implemented by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). Nadira’s dedication during the internship led to her securing a permanent position within the same company.
A Refugee's Journey to Success: The Story of Nadira
Nadira Al-Hasani, a Syrian refugee, has called Lebanon home since 2012. Today, she studies Business Management at Southern New Hampshire University. With no traditional classes or exams, Nadira takes full responsibility for her studies. The university provides students with laptops, internet access, and an online learning hub. "It's all about reading articles, watching videos, and tackling real-world problems through hands-on projects. We gain experience by independently managing tasks," she explains.
Memories of Childhood in Syria
"My childhood was filled with joy and happiness," Nadira recalls about her early years in Syria. However, the final two years in her homeland were deeply challenging. "During that time, my father constantly moved us from one city to another, driven by an overwhelming responsibility to protect us amidst the turmoil of war," she recounts.
Leaving Syria Behind
Transitioning from Syria to Lebanon was difficult, marked by a profound sense of loss. Adapting to an unfamiliar educational system proved especially challenging, as she had to study in both French and English, languages not part of her education in Syria. Despite setbacks and feelings of disorientation, Nadira persevered, ultimately seizing the opportunity to pursue a distance-learning degree at Southern New Hampshire University.
A Path of Personal Growth
Over time, Nadira experienced substantial personal growth. Achieving proficiency in English, mastering computer skills, and honing her project management abilities transformed her perspective from a young woman with limited opportunities into a highly capable professional ready to compete on a global scale. She attributes this transformation to her unyielding determination and the invaluable support she received.
Determination Beyond the Refugee Label
With support from the EU Regional Trust Fund in Response to the Syrian Crisis (EUTF Syria, Madad), Nadira accessed an internship that evolved into a part-time job, further enhancing her future prospects. She has also learned not to let her refugee label define her worth, proving her capability to achieve whatever she sets her mind to.
Nadira’s Message to Other Young Girls
Nadira is deeply grateful for the tools and skills she has acquired. As a refugee, she stands as a testament to the limitless potential of individuals, regardless of labels. Her future looks promising, and she is prepared to seize every opportunity.
To other young girls, Nadira’s message is clear: "Never give up on your education. Education changes your outlook and gives you the strength to demand the respect and opportunities you rightly deserve."