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Yasmine, a 30-year-old farmer from Syria, has always had a deep connection to the land. Since childhood, she worked alongside her family, cultivating crops and nurturing the soil. However, after being displaced due to the war, she found herself in Lebanon, where she continued her farming journey. Despite the hardships, her love for agriculture never faded.
Working on a farm, Yasmine specialized in growing tomatoes—a crop she adores. However, her traditional farming knowledge was limited, and she faced challenges in maximizing her yields and ensuring the sustainability of her work. That’s when she got the opportunity to participate in an agricultural training program under the Agriforward Project, implemented by Basmeh & Zeitooneh in collaboration with World Vision, and funded by BMZ.
Learning and Growth Through Training
Through this training, Yasmine had the chance to learn from expert farming engineers at Basmeh & Zeitooneh. The program covered essential agricultural techniques, including modern planting methods, soil health management, and the effective use of farming equipment.
“I used to work in farming before, but I lacked knowledge about many techniques,” Yasmine shared. “The training taught me how to properly plant crops, use farming tools efficiently, and improve the quality of my produce. I applied everything I learned, and the results have been incredible.”
One of the most valuable aspects of the training for Yasmine was learning how to properly care for tomatoes. She now understands the importance of soil preparation, fertilization, and irrigation techniques that have significantly boosted her yield. Additionally, she developed skills in fermenting tomatoes, an area she has grown passionate about.
“We also learned about different farming equipment and how to use them effectively. This knowledge has made my work easier and more productive. When I implement what I learned, I see real improvements, and that gives me confidence.”
Farming: A Source of Strength and Livelihood
For Yasmine, farming is not just a job—it’s a source of self-relief and empowerment. She starts her day at 6:30 AM, heading to the farm to tend to her crops. Working with the soil gives her a sense of purpose and peace, even amidst the struggles of displacement.
“If I had my own land, I would plant olive trees,” she says with a nostalgic smile. “In Syria, my homeland had vast olive fields. We used to harvest olives, extract oil, and use it for our household. It was a part of our life.”
However, returning to Syria is not an option for Yasmine at the moment. Her family home was destroyed, and her mother remains in Lebanon, requiring medical care. To support her mother’s treatment, Yasmine and her sister work tirelessly on the farm.
“The farm owner has been very supportive. He helps me a lot, and I also learn from him every day. His guidance has been invaluable in enhancing my skills.
A Future Rooted in Hope
Yasmine’s journey reflects resilience, determination, and the transformative power of knowledge. Thanks to the Agriforward Project’s training, she has not only improved her agricultural skills but also found renewed hope for the future.
Her dream is to one day own a piece of land where she can cultivate olives, just like in her homeland. Until then, she continues to work hard, applying her newfound skills and embracing the rewarding labor of farming.
Through dedication and the right support, Yasmine has turned her passion into a means of survival and growth. Her story is a testament to the impact of empowerment through education, proving that with knowledge and perseverance; even the most challenging circumstances can be transformed into opportunities for success.