Source: ISS Lebanon, Himaya
With support from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), and through himaya’s interventions under the program to improve the well-being of Lebanese and refugee children by enhancing access to protection services and the justice system, Wael’s story became one of resilience and transformation.
At just 15 years old, Wael had already lived a life shaped by hardship and survival. A Syrian refugee living in the Bekaa region with his parents and three siblings, his child
anger on the surface was, in many ways, a cry for help. The family was overwhelmed, and Wael was spiraling.
When he was referred to himaya, the situation was critical. His risk level was assessed as high. The case management team moved quickly to establish a protection plan. Psychological support was initiated to help Wael process his emotions and develop healthier coping mechanisms. He was enrolled in focused psychosocial support group sessions and participated in awareness sessions on juvenile rights and responsibilities under Law 422.
His mother was simultaneously enrolled in positive parenting sessions, and the entire family was referred to a local health center for follow-up. Recognizing the need for income stability, the team also provided the family with financial support, which was used to launch a home-based food preservation project led by Wael’s mother. This small project brought a sense of routine and hope back into the household.
As the weeks progressed, Wael slowly began to engage. He distanced himself from the peer group that had once led him astray. He returned home consistently, reduced his smoking, and stopped consuming energy drinks. For the first time in years, no new theft incidents were reported. His relationship with his mother began to heal, and he showed signs of emotional connection with his family. Through the support of the psychologist and social workers, his interactions with his siblings became more positive and consistent. He was no longer just reacting. He was beginning to reflect, to care.
Those closest to Wael noticed a clear shift, not just in his behavior, but in his sense of self. He became more involved in sessions, more open to guidance, and more hopeful about his future. His caseworker described a moment when Wael stayed after a session, not because he had to, but because he wanted to talk. Small moments like these marked the beginning of something new.
While the journey is far from over, the progress he made in just a few months was profound. He no longer saw himself through the lens of failure and conflict. Today, Wael is reconnecting with his family, making healthier choices, and seeing himself in a new light. Not as a troubled boy, but as someone capable of change.
Source: ISS Lebanon, Himaya
