Forced migration to cyberspace pays

Syrian, from idlib; seeking Undergraduate degree in Computer Science and is enrolled at Lebanese International University.  

I still remember that moment as if it was yesterday.

5 years after arriving in Lebanon from Jiser Al-Shughoor, Idlib, my parents divorced. I woke up one day to find a letter on our kitchen table from
my mother. She said she is leaving. I was 16. From that moment on, I became the head of my own family of three underage siblings.

Although we stayed with my father for a couple of years but life with him was unbearable. My grandmother moved to Tripoli to provide support. He too soon, and we moved in with her. Both me and my sister had to work. I was 16, she was 14 at the time.

We both worked in a garment retail business then in a vegetable packing facility. Our combined income did not exceed $150 monthly. Me and my 3 siblings dropped out of school because we could not afford it.

I worked long hours. Cyberspace was my haven when I returned home. I learned Python and Java on my own. I also learned how to use Photoshop, Illustrator and Shopify. I designed website interfaces.

I started creating Telegram channels and Discord servers and promoted them on foreign platforms. Eventually, I opened a store on Discord
selling game codes. The money I earned was transferred in my Bitcoin/USDT/LTC wallet to Lebanon.

I re-enrolled my younger siblings & myself in school and graduated high school in 2022. I am now a
sophomore, computer major at LIU.

Why Would Donors Fund You?

Your aid isn't just for my academic pursuit in computer science at LIU. It's an anchor for my siblings who are navigating Lebanon's challenging financial landscape alone. Furthermore, you're enabling me to realize a vision: to host sessions and programs aimed at assisting young individuals who've seen tough times. By sharing my own story, my grasp on computer science, and lessons from my work life, I seek to create a trail of inspiration for them.

How Do You Plan to Payback?

After graduating, I plan to harness my knowledge in computer science to develop educational programs for refugees and underprivileged youth in Lebanon. By providing them with digital skills, I aim to empower them to seize opportunities in the evolving job market. Furthermore, by sharing my story and mentoring, I hope to inspire resilience in others facing adversity. Supporting my community not only repays the kindness I've received but also strengthens our collective future, ensuring no talent goes wasted due to circumstances beyond control.

Volunteer Work/Social Capital

Volunteering:

• YAD Initiative: Educational Opportunities Researcher.
• Local Education Center: Teaching Assistant, introducing students aged 12-15 to the digital world by teaching them HTML.
• LIU: Teaching Assistant for Java Course.
• University Students Forum: Active Member.
• Tutoring peers and relatives to enhance their skills in Mathematics and Physics.

What Have You Done to Improve Yourself? Awards and Achievements

Independent Studies:

• Python: Completed an online course on Coursera and developed small applications.
• Studied using "Eloquent JavaScript" book
• Introduction To Machine Learning US: Completed an online course on Great Learning.
• Front End Development - HTML: Completed an online course on Great Learning.

Awards:

• President's Honor List for Academic Excellence, Lebanese International University, 2023.
• "Student of the Year" Award for Outstanding Academic Achievements, Tuyoor Al Amal High School, 2022.