Regional Campaign Schools Programs Mobilize Thousands Across the Middle East and North Africa

With the support of the Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI), the National Democratic Institute (NDI) Campaign Schools program tailored its global practices to the post-Arab Spring context in the Middle East and North Africa to help potential election campaign managers and candidates build strategies using tested techniques. From 2012 to 2017, NDI trained 430 potential …

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SLP Alumnus Pivots Learning Efforts in Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic

Mohammad Aljilani participated in the MEPI Student Leaders Program (SLP) at Portland State University in the summer of 2019 where he studied conflict resolution, leadership, democracy, and U.S institutions. Mohammad believes in the power of diversity and describes the lessons learned with the Student Leaders Program as “a new lifestyle”.  He shares that, “I have …

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Small Construction and Engineering Businesses in Morocco Receive Support from MEPI and NEF

The Al-Rawabet project promotes the growth of high-potential companies and invests in the  development of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Safi-Marrakech region, with funding from  the United States Department of State Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI). A new public private partnership (PPP) in Safi, Morocco started through Al-Rawabet is providing opportunities  for young entrepreneurs to …

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Hub Créatif and MEPI’s Support for Al-Rawabet in Morocco

In the Marrakech-Safi region of Morocco, many resources are available to entrepreneurs, but businesses weren’t working together or coordinating to influence policy. The Al-Rawabet project, funded by the United States Department of State’s Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI), takes an entirely new approach to the development of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the  region. Through Al-Rawabet, …

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Blending Academia and Grassroots Advocacy Efforts: How a MEPI Alumna is Helping Empower Thousands of Women in Lebanon

As young as eighteen years old, Danya Arayssi (SLP 2018, Lebanon) recognized many of her community’s challenges. Through accounts she heard about women being silenced by cultural norms, traditions, and values, Danya knew that her passion lied in empowering women. Danya explains, “They are silenced to denounce a continuous yet traumatic daily abuse and human …

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MEPI Alumnus Uses Psychology to Help Diabetes Patients

Nasser al-Tooblani graduated from MEPI’s Tomorrow’s Leaders program at LAU in the spring of 2020 with a BA in Psychology and received High Distinction. Suffering from diabetes since he was two years old, Nasser has consistently struggled with diabetes self-management throughout his life. In his capstone project « Bloom », Nasser came up with the …

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MEPI Alumna Leading the COVID-19 Response in Libya

Ghufran Ashor, a MEPI’s Tomorrow’s Leaders LAU alumna from Libya, graduated in Spring 2019 and began her search for the right post-graduation job. She sought a role that would serve purpose and allow her to make a difference. After an excessive job search, Ashor landed a job that matched her skills and aspirations perfectly. In …

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MEPI Alumna Works To Counter Fake News and Promote Transparent Media in Tunisia

Censorship and the spread of fake news remain two of the main challenges that media and journalism face in Tunisia. Tunisian journalists are continuously working to alleviate these challenges and improve the sector.  To help solve these challenges, MEPI’s Leadership Development Fellowship (LDF) program Alumna Ahed Jamaoui created Media Impact +, a project for training local …

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MEPI Alumnus Creates a Safe Space for Hundreds of Youth in His Hometown in Casablanca, Morocco.

After participating in MEPI’s Student Leaders Program Mohammed Taoufik, felt compelled to find a solution to the high crime and drug rates that he saw in the youth in his community in Casablanca. He created a public awareness and support campaign to showcase the positive impact building a youth soccer field would have on the …

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MEPI grantee Lebanese Center for Active Citizenship empowers local women

MEPI Local grantee Lebanese Center for Active Citizenship (LCAC) successfully empowered and trained 100 refugee and Lebanese women to produce and sell high quality fishing nets.  The program also trained the women on how to market their product and cut out middle men, further empowering these women economically in their communities.  The women have been able to …

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MEPI Jordanian Grantee Successfully Provides Youth With Skills to Start Their Businesses

MEPI Jordanian Local grantee “AYA for Consultancy and Development” successfully continues to provide opportunities for youth to engage in skills empowerment, business training, and micro-grants for starting business initiatives that will assist them to connect with their communities and create economic benefits. An ongoing success story is the “Growing Mushrooms” micro grant. The idea is …

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MEPI Project Helps Employ About 100 Participants

Cenacle de La Lumière (CDLL) completed their two-year MEPI funded project “Back into Community (BiC)” focusing on improving the lives and economic prospects of 125 women and youth in Lebanon, specifically in Keserwan, Jbeil and Metn. Working with local companies, CDLL succeeded in empowering and strengthening 125 vulnerable women and youth through extensive trainings and …

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MEPI-funded Project Equips Hundreds of Vulnerable Lebanese Youth with Employment skills

Lebanese Youth SEEK (Strengthening Employability and Enhancing Knowledge) Jobs is a unique project in which the private sector played a strong role in the development of employment programs and trainings that allowed 125 vulnerable youth from the North of Lebanon to gain valuable life and employment skills and subsequently find employment. In the first phase …

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LDF Fellows Meet With Lebanese President to Discuss Critical Regional Issues

It’s not every day that young people have the opportunity to talk with global leaders about critical issues. But on October 2, a group of young professionals from across the Middle East and North Africa met with Lebanese President General Michel Aoun and other Lebanese officials to discuss political, social, and economic issues affecting the …

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Recruitment for 2019 MEPI Student Leaders Program Is Now Open

The U.S. Department of State’s Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) program seeks nominations for potential participants in the MEPI Student Leaders Program scheduled to take place in summer 2019. The program will last from June 26 – July 31, 2019. This program is open to university students between the ages of 20 and 24. We seek …

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MEPI Leaders for Democracy Fellowship Program Kicks Off at Duke University

Duke University has welcomed 21 participants of the Leaders for Democracy Fellowship (LDF), a leadership development program organized through the U.S.-Middle East Partnership Initiative of the U.S. State Department. The program provides early- and mid-career professionals from across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region with the opportunity to gain academic and practical experience …

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MEPI Announces a Funding Opportunity to Advance U.S. Economic Interests in the MENA Region While Bolstering the Nascent eSports Industry

  The Department of State’s Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI), a program within the Bureau of Near East Affairs Office of Assistance Coordination (NEA/AC), announces a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for projects designed to advance U.S. economic interests in the MENA region while bolstering the nascent eSports industry. This initiative will advance and promote …

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Amb. Freidman Commends MEPI for Increasing Employment Diversity in Israel by 150% Through “Diversity Works” Initiative

On July 9th, Ambassador David Freidman hosted the closing ceremony for the “Diversity Works” project – a joint initiative led by the itworks nonprofit organization and  supported by the U.S. Embassy’s Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI).  Diversity Works contributed to a dramatic 150% increase in employment diversity in the 47 participating companies by integrating various …

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MEPI Alumni Venture Fund Application Information

The MEPI Alumni Venture Fund (AVF) aims to collaboratively utilize the leadership skills that alumni have developed through their various MEPI program experiences in the Middle East and North Africa. The AVF supports alumni to work together on innovative solutions to economic and/or community needs. The small grants provide seed funding for innovative ideas to develop new partnerships, foster sustainable collaboration …

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MEPI Alum Launches Center of Civil Society for Governance and Local Development in Kalaat el-Andalous, Tunisia.

During his participation in the MEPI Student Leaders program at Portland State University in 2016, Safwen Karoui became inspired by the principles and ideas behind conflict resolution. He wanted to take the professional skills that he gained from the program and apply them to work with local associations and civil society organizations in his home …

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New Legal and Institutional Framework for Investment in Tunisia

Following four years of coordinated donor technical assistance, the government of Tunisia recently announced the implementation of a new legal framework for investment. The implementation of several key changes will improve efficiency and productivity through the development of investments in innovative and high value-added sectors that will improve the competitiveness of the national economy and …

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MEPI Alum Gives Back to Community as President of the Lebanese Association of Dental Students

When Houssam Askar first saw the announcement for the MEPI Student Leaders program, he was so excited that he stayed awake all night thinking about what to write for his application. His dream came true when he was accepted into the program at Georgetown University in June, 2015. Through Student Leaders, Houssam is better prepared …

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MEPI Alumna Implements “My City” Project to Support Youth and Start-Up Businesses in Gaza.

Reham El-Saidi experienced major changes in her life after participating in the Leaders for Democracy (LDF) Program. The program increased Reham’s knowledge of civic engagement, leadership skills and introduced her to new cultures and ideas, which allowed her to see things from different perspectives and reflect on her role within her community back home. During …

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MEPI-Funded CLDP Engagement Results in New Insolvency Laws in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia

The Department of Commerce’s Commercial Law Development Program (CLDP), which provides direct government-to-government technical assistance worked with legislative drafters, judges, and private sector stakeholders to deliver updated insolvency laws that will reduce the rate of business failure in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. The passage of the laws earlier this year is a major achievement for …

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MEPI Alum Develops an Educational Manual on Voting in Lebanon

As many LDF Fellows, Michel El Daccache described the Leaders for Democracy Fellowship (LDF) program as a turning point in his life. The LDF experience was a milestone for multiple and enriching opportunities that helped shape his growing career. The program allowed him to develop his civic action plan and transform it into a manual …

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Participant in the MEPI Funded Hack4Democracy Initiative Becomes a Municipal Councilor in Tunisia

At just 24 years old, Haythem Srihi is a member of the Hack4Democracy (H4D) finale’s winning team and a newly elected municipal councilor from the city of Jammel in Tunisia.  Haythem’s success in both the H4D competition and in the May 6 municipal elections serves as a prime example of what Tunisian youth can achieve …

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MEPI Alum Publishes a Book on the Media Public Service Broadcasting Network (PBN) in Iraq

Awsam believes that the LDF program was a turning point in his professional career. The program provided an opportunity for him to write and publish his first book on the Media Public Service Broadcasting Network (PBN) in Iraq. This book is a part of Awsam’s CAP project in which he aims to engage the broadcasting …

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MEPI Supports ‘City for All’ to Advance Gender Equality in Akko, Israel

Itach-Maaki’s “City for All” MEPI- supported project was introduced to the Akko public at a large May 14 event in the mixed Arab and Jewish coastal city, launching a public process of integrating gender equality into the municipal structure and processes. Shimon Lankri, the city’s mayor, addressed some 100 residents and city officials who came …

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Sikkuy’s MEPI Project Strengthens 922 Decision for Arab Cities in Israel

Sikkuy, The Association for the Advancement of Civic Equality, launched its new guidebook for Arab local authorities May 8 on the mapping and identification of the needs of citizens in the field of transportation. With support from the Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI), this Sikkuy initiative aims to improve implementation of the Israeli government decision …

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With MEPI’s Support, Morocco Joins the Open Government Partnership

On April 26, The Kingdom of Morocco joined the Open Government Partnership (OGP) , an international initiative that secures commitments from governments to promote transparency, empower citizens, fight corruption, and harness new technologies to strengthen governance.  Through a partnership with the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, MEPI supported the Moroccan government’s initiative to establish and implement a National Action …

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MEPI Project Opens Job Market for Arab Village Artisans

Jesser Azarka is an Arab village just north of the wealthy resort town of Caesarea .  With 14,000 residents, 60% of whom are living below poverty line, Jesser faces rising violence, but the community is committed to making things better.  Via a MEPI-supported project led by Tel Aviv University (TAU), several groups of women in the …

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MEPI Program Promotes Integration of Ethiopian Israelis into Workforce

Some 35 participants of the program “Employment, Empowerment, and Leadership for Excelling Ethiopian Israeli and Veteran Israeli University Graduates” celebrated the completion of a 10-month MEPI-funded course held May 4 simultaneously in Haifa and Jerusalem.  Run by Olim Beyahad (Immigrating Together), the program assists outstanding Ethiopian Israeli University graduates seeking suitable employment in Israel’s workforce. …

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Over 100 Young Leaders from the MENA Region to Discuss Pressing Regional Challenges in Tunisia

On April 4-6, in Hammamet Tunisia, the 2018 Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) Student Leaders Capstone Seminar brought together more than 100 students from across the Middle East and North Africa who have completed an intensive six-week leadership training program in the United States.  The hands-on sessions are designed to build the knowledge and skills of the young participants in three …

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MEPI Alumnus Spreads Message of Tolerance, Coexistence, and Diversity across Morocco

As a dedicated advocate for peace building and conflict resolution, Hicham El Hadad is actively working to build the bridge of communication between youth and local officials in his community to address and find solutions to problems affecting youth in Northern Morocco. Since he returned from the Student Leaders program funded by the Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) in 2014, Hicham has used …

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Voter Education for the Municipal Elections Started in Mahdia, Tunisia, Thanks to the TIDD MEPI Funded Project

In the framework of its Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) funded project, the Tunisian Institute for Democracy and Development (TIDD) conducted its first voter outreach campaign in Mahdia on March 22.  The event gathered volunteers from the governorates of Beja, Kef, Seliana, Jendouba, Bizerte and Mahdia in Tunisia.  The activity took place in the medina …

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We Youth Launched its MEPI Voter Education Campaign in Sfax, Tunisia

Thank you to the WeYouth team for their great work in launching the voter education campaign on March 21 in Sfax, Tunisia.  Through its Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) funded project, We Youth organized a field outreach activity in the Medina of Sfax to raise citizens’ awareness of the importance of participation in the upcoming …

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Insolvency Reform On Track in Bahrain

One of the principal insolvency law drafters at Bahrain’s Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Tourism (MOICT) and a member of the Bahraini Parliament’s Finance Committee, discussed Bahrain’s draft law with CLDP.  The officials confirmed that the draft insolvency law, which was recently approved by the Bahraini Cabinet, introduces a reorganization process for failing businesses and …

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NEA SAMS Domestic Grant System Transition: System Changes at Department of State

The domestic State Assistance Management System (SAMS Domestic)  will soon be used to manage all federal assistance activities at the Department of State. SAMS Domestic is a new in-house grants management system that will replace the system we are currently using to manage your awards, GrantSolutions. GrantSolutions is being phased out bureau by bureau over the …

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Young Leaders Entrepreneurs “Unleash Tunisia” Project Selected for the Intercultural Innovation Award

Unleash Tunisia was a one-year advocacy project promoting entrepreneurship, business skills and a “startup mentality” all around Tunisia. MEPI partnered with a nascent organization “Young Leaders Entrepreneurs” to realize the following outcomes : During 5 tours, trained 150 participants with diverse backgrounds and gender. Created 40+ partnerships with local NGOs, universities, accelerators and coworking spaces. …

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Successful Completion of U.S. Workshop to Help Palestinian Entrepreneurs Flourish

JERUSALEM – October 25th marked the successful completion of a U.S. Consulate General-sponsored workshop to build a better ecosystem for innovation in the West Bank.  Co-sponsored by the U.S. Department of Commerce, the workshop convened American experts and Palestinian entrepreneurs, academics, business leaders, and government stakeholders to identify policy and regulatory reforms that will help …

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MEPI Alum and Co-Founder of Live Love Beirut Launches “Live Love Volunteer”

MEPI Alum Abbas Sibai (Leaders for Democracy (LDF) U.S. Program, 2013) has launched “Live Love Volunteer,” which leverages the popular Live Love social media accounts to promote volunteerism in Lebanon. Live Love Volunteer’s next activity is a trash clean up day at Lebanon’s Kfarhelda waterfalls on September 16. Abbas co-founded the “Live Love Beirut” social …

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Recruitment for 2018 MEPI Student Leaders Program Is Now Open

The U.S. Department of State’s Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) program seeks nominations for potential participants in the MEPI Student Leaders Program scheduled to take place in summer 2018. The program will last from June 25 – August 4, 2018. The Student Leaders program is an intensive 5-week training program in four U.S.-based universities for …

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Remarks by Ambassador Rubinstein at MEPI Local Grants Kick-Off Ceremony

Good morning everyone, I am delighted to be here to participate in this very special occasion.  I want to take a moment to thank Minister Ben Gharbia Minister for Relations with Constitutional Bodies, Civil Society and Human Rights, our local partners from around the country, our guests from Morocco, and all of you for taking …

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MEPI Announces Call for Proposals for Its Regional Assistance Program 2 (RAP 2)

RAP 2 is a grants and technical assistance mechanism to strengthen civil society organizations and support civil society actors working towards social and political engagement in the Middle East and North Africa. RAP 2 is funded by the U.S.-Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) and is being implemented by the International Research & Exchanges Board (IREX). …

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MEPI-funded Program Launches Electronic Platform to Monitor Public Projects in Tunisia

FSVC and the Tunisian Association of Public Auditors (ATCP) recently launched an electronic platform to monitor public infrastructure projects in Tunisia. The platform, known as “Cabrane” (a slang Tunisian word used to define a foreman), can be viewed at www.cabrane.com. The first of its kind at the national level, this platform maps out meaningful data …

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Tunisian Presidency Welcomes Exchange Alumni

On August 30, a group of Tunisian State Department exchange program alumni were joined by Ambassador Rubinstein and embassy staff in a meeting with Tunisian President Beji Caid Essebsi and his Youth and Diplomacy Advisors at the Presidential Palace.  During this meeting, alumni shared the results of their experiences in the United States on a …

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Building the Business Leadership of Jordan’s Women Farmers

MEPI grantee Specific Union for Women Farmers (SUWF) initiated the “Building the Business Leadership of Jordan’s Women Farmers” project by conducting a needs assessment to identify the training needs of 500 female farmers who own businesses. SUWF then selected 120 female participants and contacted a consultant to prepare the training material, which will be delivered …

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Pre-Departure Orientation with the next generation of MEPI Student Leaders

After their pre-departure orientation in Tunis, the group of young Libyans who were selected to participate in the Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) Student Leaders Program traveled to the United States. After orientation in Washington, DC, they were placed at various universities in the United States to participate in the program on leadership development and …

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The 10th EFE Graduation Ceremony Celebrated the Placement of 288 Tunisians in 7 Companies

On July 12, Education for Employment concluded its MEPI funded project entitled “Supporting Civic Responsibility and Private Sector Job Creation in Tunisia” with its 10th graduation ceremony to celebrate the graduation of 288 Tunisians who were placed in jobs in seven enterprises.  CDA Benjamin Moeling had the opportunity to meet with some of the graduates and …

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Improve Tourism Etiquette MEPI-funded Project Concluded with 49 Jobseekers Hired

Les Grandes Ecoles de Communication (GEC) held the closing ceremony of the “Improve Tourism Etiquette” #MEPI funded project on June 29.  The project aims to improve customer service, communication soft skills, and tourism work etiquette in 100 degree-holding candidates seeking employment from 5 different cities (Tunis, Hammamet, Sousse, Jerba, and Tozeur).  The project also included …

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NOFO: Alumni Engagement

The Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs Office of Assistance Coordination (NEA/AC) announces a new Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) aimed at promoting social and private entrepreneurship in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region by partnering with its Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) alumni. Alumni networks can be effective social networks that generate both a …

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We Asked, They Answered! This Is Why These Advisors Work With MEPI Exchange Students

Georgetown University Christopher Shirley, Project Director, has been working on the program 13 years, and every year he feels a profound sense of having his heart touched by 120 students working so hard at making the world better. Chantal Santalices, Director of the Center for Intercultural Education and Development, finds joy working with the international …

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Morocco’s Entrepreneurship Startup Ecosystem Blossoms

While still in its early development stage, Morocco’s startup ecosystem has the potential to reinvigorate the small business environment and reduce the 40 percent youth unemployment rate.  In 2013,  Start Up Your Life, a non-profit organization with the mission of helping early and seed startups grow and turn into high-potential businesses, operates at the “seed” …

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MEPI Media Training Programs Lead Libyan Students to Big Opportunities

The Libya media landscape continues to experience polarization, lack of press freedom, and insufficient employment opportunities for new graduates. The Institute for War and Peace Reporting (IWPR)’s MEPI-funded Media Lab within the University of Tripoli has worked to tackle these issues by providing practical media skills training to over 1,200 journalism students, including more than 300 …

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Youth Entrepreneurship Advocacy- Aventures d’Entrepreneurs

In April 2017, for the third edition of Aventures d’Entrepreneurs, Reseau Entreprendre Tunisie (RET) conducted a survey of over 160 Tunisian women entrepreneurs to highlight the real challenges and pitfalls faced by women entrepreneurs across the country. A position paper summarizing key results and presenting relevant recommendations was developed. On May 17th, RET organized a panel at Cogite …

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Immersion Training with Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Limoges, France

As part of its capacity building effort for Tunisia’s regional Chambers of Commerce, the MEPI-funded Chambers of Commerce and Business Associations Customized Assistance Program (CBACAP), in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce of Limoges- France, organized an immersion training for Tunisian Chambers’ managers within the Chamber of Limoges premises. Sixteen export assistance and support services managers from eight Tunisian Chambers of …

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MEPI Supports Chambers of Commerce and Youth Entrepreneurship Organizations

The Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) – funded Chambers of Commerce and Business Associations Customized Assistance Program (CBACAP), implemented by Deloitte Consulting LLP, has made strides in building the capacities of eight Tunisian Chambers of Commerce and three youth economic organizations over the past four years. The mission of the program is to drive inclusive, …

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Lebanese Culinary Consortium Builds U.S. Trade Ties

Press Release 23 June 2017 Lebanese Culinary Consortium Builds U.S. Trade Ties Fair Trade Lebanon (FTL), a U.S.-funded consortium of hundreds of agro-producers and farmers from marginalized communities in Lebanon, made its American debut at a June 22 event showcasing authentic Lebanese food products for U.S. vendors. Supported through a $2.9 million grant funded by …

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Entrepreneurship and Employment Day For Youth

As part of the Empowering Youth through Entrepreneurship in Morocco (EYEM) project, funded by the US Department of State / Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI), the Near East Foundation (NEF) cosponsored a day on “Entrepreneurship and Employment for Youth: A Common Challenge” on February 15, 2017 at the National School for Applied Sciences (ENSA) in Safi. Similar to the …

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EYEM Grants Help MEPI Beneficiary Launch Her Business

Yasmina Zaz is a twenty-years-old from Safi, deaf and only able to communicate through sign, Yasmina nevertheless did not give up and continued vocational training as a beautician. But despite her diploma and experience, she was unable to find a job and earn an income. “For a long time, I felt that opening my own business was an unrealistic dream,” Yasmina said. “But …

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Malika Haroual: A Symbol of Women’s Strength

Malika, a widow and a mother of six, is a beneficiary of the EYEM project from Moulay Abdellah. She is a proactive woman, driven by her strong will and self-confidence, which allowed her to capitalize on her five years of experience as a cook to create her own snack-bar. “The EYEM grant helped me to buy the necessary …

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Entrepreneur’s New Business Seeks to Improve Health Services in Safi, Morocco

Yassine Khalfaoui, a 32-year-old nurse from Safi, dreamed of opening his own pharmaceutical shop to provide high quality services in Safi. Yassine graduated from the Canadian school, Diana of the Polyvalent Nurse in Safi in 2010. He then undertook various internships at Mohamed 5 Hospital, the Nour Clinics surgical unit, and at different clinicsthat helped him gain skills. Through the Scouts Association of …

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MEPI Grantee Hosts Roundtable Discussion on Entrepreneurial Struggles

On April 11, 2017, The U.S.-Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) grantee L’Heure Joyeuse hosted a roundtable event on the theme “Insertion and Entrepreneurship for Youth in Difficult Situations: Issues and Prospects,” in which EconOff Okocha spoke on the promising collaboration between the two entities. The panel included L’Heure Joyeuse members, entrepreneurs, and enablers in entrepreneurship. …

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Fair Trade Lebanon (FTL) Fabulous Food Feast

Buoyed by unseasonably cool weather and overcast skies, MEPI partner Fair Trade Lebanon held its sixth annual “World Fair Trade Day” on May 21 at the St. George’s Convent in Roumieh, Lebanon. Several hundred food fans feasted on offerings provided by members of the 22 women-led cooperatives and small businesses that are the beneficiaries of …

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Closing Ceremony of the MEPI Funded Leaders for Democracy Fellowship Program at AUB

The 2017 Leaders for Democracy Fellowship (LDF) Program, funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) Program and implemented in Lebanon by World Learning in collaboration with the American University of Beirut (AUB), held its closing ceremony on Friday, May 19, 2017 from 11:00am until 1:00pm. The closing ceremony took place …

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MEPI Raises Awareness on Gender Based Violence (GBV) Prevention in Kuwait

In February 2017, Abolish Article 153 organized successful training on “Gender violence training for youth and live theater production workshop in Kuwait”, 13 participants under the age of 21 (2 males and 11 females) benefited from the training. The organization plans to conduct series of trainings target young Kuwaiti activists and leaders to educate them …

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MEPI Student Leaders Alumni Met with the Tunisian Ministry of Youth and Sports Representatives

A group of the 2016 MEPI Student Leaders alumni participated today in a meeting with the Chief of Staff and Directors Generals at the Tunisian Ministry of Youth and Sports. Following the MEPI Capstone conference organized in Tunis last March 2017, the Minister of Youth and Sports, Ms. Majdouline Cherni, offered her Ministry’s support for the …

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The Story of a Finalist – Slim Lengliz

In your opinion, what is the most powerful tool that can be used in the 21st century to overcome the challenges that humanity is facing today and to help nations grow? Let me tell you that the answer is education, sciences, and arts, but more important it is the digital and communication technologies. In Tunisia, where we are …

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The Story of a Finalist-Safa Yahia

My name is Safa Yahia and I am a 27 year old engineering graduate from Gabes. My story began on January when I applied for the “I Have a Project” Program. I was selected as one of the 25 finalists which allowed me to participate in the program. Because of my participation in the program, I gained a special …

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The Story of a Finalist-Yosra Abidi

My name is Yosra Abidi, 25 years old, and I am from the beautiful region of Kef. I study at the Higher Institute for Languages of Tunis (ISLT). I am currently on my third and final year studying English Language, Literature and Civilization. I am very active in my society. I am a member in a variety of …

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The Story of a Finalist-Rafiaa Boujbel

I am Rafiaa Boujbel, IT consultant with Tim Consulting and a Ph.D. candidate in Telecommunication Networks at Munich University of Applied Sciences. I would like to share my Education for Employment (EFE) experience with you. This experience started with an online application that I became aware of through the EFE website. After the selection process, I became a finalist …

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MEPI Announces a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for Entrepreneurship Projects in MENA

The Department of State’s Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI), a program within the Bureau of Near East Affairs Office of Assistance Coordination (NEA/AC), announces a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for projects designed to assist entrepreneurs seeking to expand and grow their businesses and activities. The NOFO will close on June 6, 2017. For more information on …

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Tunisia: Raising Awareness in the Regions About Open Government Issues

The advent of the Tunisian revolution has brought about renewed interest among citizens about how they can play a greater role in holding their government accountable.  They often lack the knowledge, however, about the tools and resources at their disposal to do so. The Tunisian Association of Public Auditors (Association Tunisienne des Contrôleurs Publics, or …

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MEPI Helps Entrepreneur Overcome Challenges to Grow Successful Salon

Khadija Elhammal, a 35-year-old hairstylist and makeup artist from Safi, Morocco, knew launching her own salon would come with its challenges. But with her determination and support from the Empowering Youth through Entrepreneurship in Morocco (EYEM) team, Khadija successfully opened her own salon. Khadija received a diploma in hairstyling and aesthetics from the National Initiative …

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MEPI Beneficiary Launches Medical Center to Improve Healthcare in Morocco

Kamal Riad a 31-year-old doctor from Casablanca, dreamed of opening his own medical center and providing high quality services—particularly in underserved rural areas—while in medical school. After graduating from the University of Casablanca’s Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy in 2012, Kamal held positions with La Samir Company in Mohammedia and OCP Group in El Jadida providing …

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MEPI Beirut coordinator Meets Dr. Imad Salamey at LAU book signing

Salamey Book Signing:  MEPI Beirut coordinator George Aldridge participated in a March 15 book signing at Lebanese American University where he exchanged greetings with LAU President Dr. Joseph G. Jabbra and Dr. Elise Salem, university vice president and director of LAU’s “Student Development and Enrollment Management” office that oversees the MEPI DC Tomorrow’s Leaders college …

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With MEPI’s Help, Young Entrepreneur Overcomes the Odds and Launches Sewing Business

Malika was born and brought up in Midelt, a small town in the high plains of central Morocco. Without access to a school after her primary years, Malika was unable to continue her education and began studying sewing, as it did not require fluency in French. After a year of professional training in sewing in Tangier, Malika undertook an internship and …

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Young Woman’s Successful Business Helps Her Return to School

Hajar Addani grew up in Khouribga City and El Jadida, Morocco where she studied computer science in college and excelled in her program. In 2015, Hajar was accepted to the US Diversity Visa Lottery Program—a program that grants eligible candidates a chance to legally immigrate to the United States to live and work. Hajar believed that the opportunity would be life changing …

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With MEPI’s Help, Farah Realizes Her Dream and Opens Her Own Tailoring Shop

Farah Souimtou is an expert tailor who for years dreamed of opening her own business. After earning a diploma in tailoring from a private tailoring school in Safi in 2004, she remained on as a trainer for 12 more years. Now at age 32 and the mother of a four year old son, Farah wants to build something on her …

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Said Takes Computer Repair into His Own Hands

Said Grilou from Safi, Morroco, worked in several different technology companies after receiving a degree in computer science from the Specialized Institute of Applied Technology (ISTA) in 2012. In an effort to put all he had learned at ISTA into practice and truly utilize his degree, 29-year-old Said decided to start his own business repairing and selling computers and other similar …

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Returned from Libya, an Artist Finds Success at Home Thanks to MEPI

Imad Elmarkchi immigrated to Libya to work as a laborer in construction and landscaping, hopeful to provide better economic opportunities for his family. With the revolution in Libya, he had to return to his family in Morocco still in a difficult financial situation and in search of a better way of life. After his experience in Libya, Imad wanted to …

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Moroccan Youth Launches Kinesiotherapy Clinic in El Jadida

Hayat Bachak is a 26-year-old kinesiotherapist from El Jadida, Morocco—and now also an entrepreneur, running her own clinic to help patients of all ages manage pain, facilitate recovery, and prevent disease. The youngest of seven children, Hayat graduated with a degree in Kinesiotherapy from the Institute of Technology and Auxiliary and Multi-Purpose Nurses (ITIAP) in El Jadida in 2013. While in school, Hayat …

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MEPI Supports Women Entrepreneurs in West Bank

On March 22, 2017 the MEPI Administrator attended the training session which was conducted by Nisaa FM in cooperation with Bank of Palestine and funded by MEPI through a local grant entitled “Aswaq “on marketing skills. Several Women Entrepreneurs from all over West Bank participated and were able to present their small business ideas and …

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MEPI Supports Civic Youth Engagement in Bethlehem and Jericho

On March 2, 2017 the MEPI Officer participated in a Bethlehem Town Hall Meeting which focused on education issues in the Palestinian school system. The town hall was part of a MEPI-funded grant with Arab World Democracy and Electoral Monitor (Al-Marsad) entitled “Civic Youth Engagement.” The goal of the project is for Al-Marsad to empower …

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MEPI Beneficiaries Represent Tunisia at GES 2016

Two of the Tunisian entrepreneurs present at GES 2016, Beyram Belhaj Amor of Simple Expert and Ryadh Bouslama of Pinhole, are part of TAYP’s Regional Initiative to Support Entrepreneurship (implemented by RISE- a diaspora mentoring program aimed at assisting a select group of Tunisian entrepreneurs to access United States markets), a program funded by the Middle East Partnership …

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MEPI Fueling Business Growth in Tunisia

The Chambers of Commerce and Business Associations Customized Assistance Program (CBACAP), funded by the Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) and implemented by Deloitte Consulting LLP, has made strides in building the capacities of eight Tunisian Chambers of Commerce (CoCs) and three youth entrepreneurship organizations over the past three years. The mission of the program is to drive inclusive economic development through increased competitiveness, business …

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MEPI Launches 2017 Leaders for Democracy Fellowship Program

The February-May 2017 MEPI-funded Leaders for Democracy Fellowship (LDF) Arabic Program was officially launched on February 20. Implemented in Lebanon by World Learning in collaboration with the American University of Beirut (AUB), this year’s program attracted 22 Fellows from nine MENA countries. Dr. Hassan Diab, AUB Vice President of the Regional External Programs, welcomed the 22 Fellows to the AUB …

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Ambassador Daniel Rubinstein’s Remarks at MEPI Student Leaders Regional Conference

Thank you Bedis for the warm welcome and introduction; My thanks as well to the GOT officials who are here, Majdouline Cherni Minister of Youth and Sports, and Saida Ounissi, Secretary of State in charge of Vocational Training and Entrepreneurship And to the facilitators, mentors, university partners and Georgetown for coordinating this event; Good afternoon …

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Check out Our New Site!

Yes, we have a brand new website! Have a look around! The new-look website has seven sections representing broad topics that may be of interest to you. The sections are broken down further into sub-categories to assist you in finding specific information. The Seven Sections are: About MEPI  – For all your questions regarding the U.S.-Middle East …

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BBC Media Action Started Filming

The MEPI team visited the BBC Media Action office in Ramallah on February 9 to visit the staff and screen a few episodes of the MEPI-funded project, Khaleena Nitfaham (‘Let’s Get Along’). The project spans over 20 months and aims to design, develop and distribute an innovative, inclusive and participatory TV social drama. Created by …

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Educating for Peace

Civic Education Workshop: On January 18, CSO Paradis D’enfants completed its third civic education workshop under the “Educating for Peace” MEPI-funded project. Some 36 teachers, social workers, psychologists from five different schools attended. Notwithstanding their cultural diversities, the participants were able to find commonalities among their different cultural backgrounds in order to start their discussions. The …

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Entrepreneurship & Employment Day For Youth

As part of the Empowering Youth through Entrepreneurship in Morocco (EYEM) project, funded by the Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI), the Near East Foundation (NEF) cosponsored a day on “Entrepreneurship and Employment for Youth: A Common Challenge” on February 15, 2017 at the National School for Applied Sciences (ENSA) in Safi. Similar to the event …

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MEPI Grantee Admitted into the Republic of France’s National Order of Merit

Dr. Alanoud al-Sharekh, a member of Abolish 153 was admitted into the Republic of France’s National Order of Merit for her work advocating for women’s rights in Kuwait and the GCC.  The order was conferred on February 8 at a ceremony at the French Embassy. Abolish 153 project aims to educate and train Kuwaiti women …

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