Context
Lebanon has been gripped by incredible challenges. In 2020 alone, the Lebanese economy shrunk by an estimated 25-45%. Inflation has reached 75-150%, with consumption shrinking by more than two-thirds. The massive explosion in the heart of Beirut (August 2020) that killed over 200 people, injured 5,000 others and left 300,000 homeless as well as the devastating effects of Covid-19 have left some 55% of the country’s population trapped in poverty and struggling for bare necessities.
Consequently, the education sector is suffering enormously: some 80% of students are now unable to pay their tuition fees.
Goals
This project supports outstanding Lebanese students (or from Lebanese descent) in demonstrable financial need, giving them access to top education in Lebanon in order to achieve their career aspirations and become the future leaders of the Lebanon of tomorrow.
Support for the scholars goes far beyond financial support; they have access to a mentoring programme, career advice and an exclusive job platform. Equipped with a degree, all LIFE scholars successfully gain employment following graduation.
The scholarship program is designed to specifically support Lebanese students pursuing a degree in the fields of: STEM, business, finance, law and liberal arts. The scholarship is renewable yearly should the students maintain a high level of academic excellence throughout the duration of their studies.
In Lebanon:
The scholarships are for three top institutions: Université St-Joseph, the American University of Beirut, and the Lebanese American University. Each scholar studying in Lebanon receives a yearly scholarship of $6,000 to cover part of their tuition fees. Given the current situation, a donation of $2,000 USD (“fresh”) collected abroad is enough to fund a full LIFE Scholarship in Lebanon.
Overseas:
Students attending a top tier academic institution in Europe or America receive a yearly scholarship of $12,000 to cover part of their tuition fees.
Activities
As part of the scholarship program, the scholars will take part in and have access to the following:
- Mentoring program with LIFE professionals;
- Career advice to prepare them for the job market;
- Networking opportunities to meet experts in their fields;
- LIFE Membership and a Commitment to the ‘Next Generation’ by giving back to the scholarship fund.
Key Performance Indicators to be reached (KPIs)
Students graduate with good career prospects, strong professional local and global networks and a commitment to the LIFE Scholarship cycle of giving.
Myriad Canada is working with LIFE on this project, a non-political and non-religious worldwide non-profit membership organization for Lebanese professionals in the diaspora. LIFE began a scholarship program in 2009, providing over 350 scholarships to Lebanese students studying in Lebanon and abroad.
Myriad Canada’s role is to carry out charitable activities across the globe in accordance with its charitable purposes. We control and monitor the use of funds and the progress of charitable activities to ensure that donations made to Myriad Canada have the greatest impact in accordance with donors’ expressed wishes. As a member of the Myriad Alliance with offices in Canada, the US, Europe, Asia and Australia, Myriad Canada has a vast international network and extensive practical expertise.
How to support this project?
By credit card: At the top right of this page, indicate the amount you wish to donate, and make the donation online by credit card. You will receive a receipt for tax purposes by e-mail just a few minutes after making the donation. Simple and fast!
By cheque: Mail the cheque to the KBF Foundation CANADA, mention ‘Project C505 – Scholarships for Lebanese Students’ in the ‘For’ section and send it to: KBF Foundation CANADA, 1 Place Ville Marie, Suite 1670, MONTREAL, QC, H3B 2B6 – CANADA.
By Direct Deposit: Send an email to Mélina Zitiello melina@myriadcanada.org or call +1 5438-300-8122
All donations are eligible for a tax receipt in Canada.
The projects are managed with the greatest care and professionalism.