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December 27, 2024

Every crisis is a chance to reinvent

Lebanon’s economy may be faltering, but in the midst of its struggles, there are individuals who don’t let adversity define them. For three Lebanese entrepreneurs, the tough conditions of the country have only sparked a more innovative and determined approach to business. Each of them, in their own way, is shaping the future of their businesses and, by extension, contributing to their country’s economy. With a mix of experience, innovation, and learning, they have turned obstacles into opportunities. Through the STEP programme—an initiative implemented by the René Moawad Foundation in collaboration with SPARK and funded by the Islamic Development Bank and Abdul Aziz al Ghurair Refugee Education Fund—each of them has been able to use the tools they need to grow their businesses, develop new skills, and play an active role in revitalising the local economy. From revitalising family businesses to launching brand-new ventures, these entrepreneurs are proving that the path to success is not just about having a good idea, but also about having the right support and adaptability to face the unpredictable challenges of the modern market.

What do MSMEs need to sustain and scale in Lebanon?

Navigating tradition and innovation: Rabi El Tabach

For Rabi El Tabach, the Hanane cleaning products business represents more than just a source of income—it’s a family legacy. “My dad used to tell me, whatever you decide to do with your life, we will entrust with you this responsibility of the family business,” Antoine El Tabach, Rabi’s father recalls. That sense of duty has stayed with him, and it is this deep-rooted sense of responsibility that drives him to innovate while maintaining the core values of the business.

Hanane, established over 30 years ago by Rabi’s grandfather, is known for its high-quality, cost-effective cleaning products. Yet, even with such a strong foundation, Rabi knew that in today’s economic climate, merely maintaining the status quo wouldn’t suffice. Through the STEP programme, Rabi has learned to streamline operations, market effectively, and build stronger relationships with clients and suppliers. His learning journey has not only enhanced the way he manages the business but has also opened his eyes to the importance of adapting to new technologies and strategies in order to remain competitive.

“My father is my foundation—he’s the one who taught me everything I know. But through STEP, I’ve been able to refine my skills and start applying new strategies,” Rabi explains. His goal is to continue to modernise Hanane, ensuring its place in the market for years to come. Despite the overwhelming challenges Lebanon faces, Rabi is resolute: “This country goes through many ups and downs, so we must resist and preserve.”

© SPARK 2024
© SPARK 2024
© SPARK 2024
© SPARK 2024

Adapting and reinventing under crisis: Christophe Lawandos

For Christophe Lawandos, the economic crisis in Lebanon was a wake-up call that forced him to rethink his business. “I used to own a farm, but I had to sell it during the economic crisis,” Christophe says, reflecting on the early days of his entrepreneurial journey. What could have been seen as a setback became an opportunity for reinvention. With his small dairy workshop, he pivoted from producing traditional white cheese to crafting innovative products such as yellow cheese, Greek yogurt, and a variety of soft and hard cheeses. This move allowed him to stand out in a crowded and competitive market.

However, like many entrepreneurs in Lebanon, Christophe soon realised that success required more than just passion. The STEP programme proved to be a pivotal moment for him. By focusing on areas like communication, customer relationship management, and long-term business planning, Christophe was able to take a step back and refocus his strategy. “Through STEP, I learned how to better interact with suppliers and customers, and how to plan effectively for the years ahead,” he explains.

Today, Christophe is more confident than ever that his innovative approach to dairy production will see his business not only survive but thrive in the years to come. His story is one of resilience and reinvention, as he continues to prove that with the right skills and support, it’s possible to pivot and build something even more successful than before. “If a person has the will, they can reach their goal. Imagine how much further they could go if they also had financial support,” Christophe adds, emphasising the importance of having both determination and access to resources in order to succeed.

© SPARK 2024
© SPARK 2024
© SPARK 2024
© SPARK 2024

Dreams do come true: Ahlam Al Moussa

Ahlam Al Moussa, whose name means “dreams” in Arabic, made her dream come true from the comfort of her own home. Always eager to create, she started crafting handmade resin products with the vision of building a business that would allow her to contribute to her household income while also giving her the flexibility to manage her time at home. However, she quickly realised that while she had the creativity, she lacked the necessary knowledge in areas like accounting, marketing, and branding.
That’s when the STEP programme made all the difference. Through STEP, Ahlam learned how to market her products, brand her business, and manage the practical aspects of running a company. It all began with creating a logo and establishing the name of her business—Mimi Marvels. STEP equipped her with the skills to turn her dream into a tangible business and gave her the tools to manage it with confidence.

Now, Ahlam’s business is thriving. Not only is she contributing to her family’s income, but she also feels a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to give back to the country that welcomed her. “If we strengthen the foundation, we remain confident in the project, and we will definitely succeed,” Ahlam shares, highlighting her growing confidence in the future of Mimi Marvels.
Her journey proves that even from a small home-based business, with the right support and foundation, big dreams can come to life and have a meaningful impact on both personal and national levels.

The stories of Rabi, Christophe, and Ahlam reflect a shared theme: adaptability and a commitment to growth. The challenges Lebanon faces are immense, yet these entrepreneurs have proven that with the right support, a clear vision, and a willingness to adapt, the future of their businesses can be secure. Thanks to the STEP programme, they now have the tools to continue their work, not just surviving but thriving in the face of adversity. Their success, although still in progress, is an example of how resilience and determination can build not only businesses but a stronger economy.

© SPARK 2024
© SPARK 2024
© SPARK 2024