Azahir Community Centers in North Lebanon
Azahir runs two local community centers. One is in Nahr el Bared Palestinian Camp, which is 15km north of Tripoli. The other is in the remote village of Tel Maayan in Akkar Province, both in Northern Lebanon.
Akkar & North Lebanon
Lebanon’s most impoverished region remains with 70% below the poverty line. It is isolated from Beirut. This region has hosted the country’s largest refugee population since 2012.
Lack of safe spaces and recreational activities
Or children and youth leads to destabilization, negative coping mechanisms, and future social problems in vulnerable communities.
Creating local community centers
With cultural programming to provide children, youth, and parents with safe, creative learning environments and positive development opportunities.
Nahr El Bared is Azahir’s core center of operation
We believe every child has the right to develop positively towards a bright future. We also believe the community embraces a rich culture rooted in traditions and progressive narratives. We empower our community members to celebrate Palestinian identity. They grow communal strength to improve the lives of young and older generations.
Many studies have identified Community Centers or social centers as crucial for maintaining social stability. They also help increase local resilience. In environments with severe socio-economic challenges, we offer a safe place for youth and children. This safe environment allows them to develop and grow positively.
“Nahr el Bared is a incredibly special place – it won my heart with the spirit of the people to survive and smile through all the hardships thrown their way. The shocking restrictions to living a decent life and deplorable camp conditions – moved me – matched with their grace and dignity – it changed me.
We built Azahir as a core pillar of the community, to ease the burdens of all families by caring for the heart of it all: the child – the seed for the hopeful future.
Azahir champions every child’s right to life, education and safety.
To me, Palestinian culture is about standing proud on your feet right when the world makes it seemingly impossible to get up. “
Alexandra Tohmé
/
Founder & President
Experience the Rhythm of Tradition
Our vibrant Dabke dance program celebrates Lebanon’s rich cultural heritage while promoting holistic wellbeing. This traditional Levantine dance brings communities together through synchronized movements. The rhythmic footwork builds both physical strength and mental resilience.
Dabke is more than just a performance art. It embodies the spirit of collective joy and solidarity. It is often featured at weddings where dancers form living chains to celebrate life’s most precious moments. Through our program, participants discover the dance’s cultural significance. They also learn about its powerful benefits for the body, mind, and community bonds.
Follow us for our next Dabke rehearsal and feel the energy of this timeless tradition come alive!