After the devastating earthquake in Aleppo in 2023, the "Ana Kamen" project was launched in Syria. Financed and supported by Œuvre d'Orient (a French Catholic and non-political association) and implemented by the NGO Al Mazeed, created by Saint Joseph University of Beirut, its main goal is to provide a safe space where field workers can express their emotions and take care of their mental health.
Designed to meet the essential needs of frontline humanitarian and social actors, the "Ana Kamen" ("Me Too") project provides a breath of fresh air in an often suffocating environment for all individuals facing the realities of disasters affecting populations. "Humanitarian and social organization leaders in Syria, such as scout leaders, social workers, and volunteers, are constantly confronted with devastating crises, whether natural disasters, armed conflicts, or even pandemics. Their dedicated commitment exposes them to intense stress and a high risk of professional burnout," explains Jesuit Father Jad Chebli, Director of Al Mazeed. It is in this context that the "Ana Kamen" project was born.
A holistic approach
Ana Kamen not only highlights the difficulties faced by field workers, but also offers concrete solutions through wellness weekends and psychosocial support activities. These interventions take place over 10 months, with monthly training in protected and calming environments such as a hotel or a convent, allowing participants to temporarily step away from the field and their stressful work. The training, led by Lebanese mental health and wellness professionals, covers various topics ranging from stress and emotion management to improving communication and leadership skills. The activities offered include discussion and sharing workshops, focus groups (group discussions led to understand the opinions and perceptions of a target audience) that include practices such as self-reflection, meditation, drama therapy, and art therapy. These workshops are all led by professionals, and Father Jad Chebli, assisted by a nun, provides spiritual guidance to the participants in the spirit of Ignatian spirituality.
Tangible results
Eight sessions have already been organized in this context during weekends, and the initial feedback from participants shows the relevance of the project. "It was one of the very few places where we could let off steam, relieve stress, and share our feelings. But above all, it was an opportunity to escape, even for a brief moment, from the daily morass of atrocities in order to return more motivated," says Joséphine*, a scout leader in Aleppo. The commitment of the project initiators and partners is reflected in every aspect of its implementation. The Al Mazeed team, with prior experience in this field thanks to similar projects carried out following the double explosion at the Port of Beirut on August 4, 2020 (a precursor event to the creation of this NGO), has managed to create an environment conducive to the personal and spiritual growth of the participants. "It was a new experience, both a window into oneself, but also an opportunity to meet new people and forge strong bonds," confides Marie, a volunteer group leader within an NGO.
A novel response to essential needs
As the project "Ana Kamen" nears its end in May-June 2024, its lasting impact is measured by the transformations it has brought about. The 200 participants, guided by experienced trainers, have gained valuable tools to cope with the humanitarian crises they face. This is noted by Carine, an activist with a Syrian parish. "This weekend has changed my perception of things a lot, especially of myself. Sometimes we feel guilty about taking care of ourselves in such moments. 'Ana Kamen' taught me that thinking of oneself is also thinking of others."
The "Ana Kamen" project represents much more than just an initiative. It is a unique and urgent response to the crucial needs of field actors in Syria, highlighting the vital importance of taking care of those who work tirelessly for the well-being of others.
*The names of the participants have been changed at their request to preserve their anonymity.
