SPARK is thrilled to celebrate three remarkable alumni—Omar Itani, Yasmine Darwich, and Yahya Bouhlel—who have been featured in the 2024 Forbes’ prestigious 30 Under 30 list in the Social Impact category. This well-deserved recognition highlights their dedication, ingenuity, and the significant positive change their ventures are driving in Lebanon, Tunisia, and beyond.

Omar Itani: FabricAID

In 2017, at just 22 years old, Omar Itani founded FabricAID, a social enterprise dedicated to providing affordable clothing to Lebanon’s most vulnerable communities, including 1.5 million Syrian refugees. FabricAID collects second-hand clothing, shoes, and accessories, meticulously refurbishes them, and sells them at micro-prices—under $2 USD—through Souk l Khlanj stores. 

SPARK supported FabricAID through the Tadamon Programme, which aids SMEs in the Middle East affected by the COVID-19 crisis. With funding from the Islamic Development Bank and the Islamic Solidarity Fund for Development, FabricAID was able to renovate premises in Jounieh and open its Souk Oukaz store in Beirut, further expanding its reach to those in need.

Yasmine Darwich: DonaLeb

Amid Lebanon’s ongoing economic challenges, Yasmine Darwich saw an opportunity to inspire healthier lifestyles while addressing the critical need for NGO funding. She launched DonaLeb, a platform that combines virtual running races with charitable giving. The app allows users to earn coins by tracking their steps, which can then be redeemed for prizes or donated to nonprofit causes.
Through SPARK’s Tech for Inclusivity Programme, funded by Google.org in partnership with Startups Without Borders, Yasmine and her team received vital mentorship that helped refine their business model and expand DonaLeb’s reach to Europe. Her innovative pitch at SPARK’s IGNITE conference in Amsterdam showcased the platform’s potential to unite health-conscious individuals and charitable causes on a global scale.

Yahya Bouhlel: GOMYCODE

In 2016, Yahya Bouhlel founded GOMYCODE to bridge the digital skills gap in Tunisia. Starting with 30 students learning how to create video games for iOS and Android, the initiative has grown exponentially, empowering young people with cutting-edge technical skills.

Yahya participated in SPARK’s Local Employment in Africa for Development (LEAD) Programme, which supports young entrepreneurs in Libya, Tunisia, and Somalia. The programme provides essential training, coaching, and access to finance, equipping participants with the tools to build sustainable businesses. GOMYCODE is now a leading force in digital education, creating new opportunities for youth in the region.

SPARK’s CEO, Simon van Melick, expressed his pride, stating:
“We are immensely proud of these young and determined entrepreneurs who have risen above significant challenges to build impactful businesses. Their dedication and success exemplify the spirit of SPARK’s mission to empower youth and drive sustainable change.”

Congratulations to Omar, Yasmine, and Yahya for this well-deserved recognition! Your achievements inspire us all to dream big and act boldly.