EU-Backed DAHIL Project: A Beacon of Hope for Entrepreneurs Amidst Seismic Devastation
In the aftermath of the catastrophic earthquakes that ravaged Hatay, Adana, Gaziantep, and Şanlıurfa, the resilience of entrepreneurs in these regions has been nothing short of awe-inspiring. Amidst the ruins, the DAHIL Project, a beacon of hope funded by the European Union and implemented by SPARK, has emerged as a lifeline for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), particularly women entrepreneurs, paving the way for economic recovery and renewed prosperity.
Overcoming Adversity: The Inspiring Journey of Muhammad Ghasham
Muhammad Ghasham, a Syrian entrepreneur, epitomizes the indomitable spirit of resilience. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, he courageously established a restaurant in Gaziantep in 2021. However, the devastating earthquakes of February 2023 forced him to evacuate his home and temporarily suspend his business operations. It was during this critical juncture that Muhammad encountered the DAHIL Project, which proved to be instrumental in helping him not only resume but also strengthen his business.
DAHIL Project: A Lifeline for SMEs in the Earthquake-Stricken Regions
The DAHIL Project has been a lifeline for SMEs like Muhammad’s, providing much-needed support before and after the earthquakes. With a focus on enhancing financial access, business skills training, and the establishment of new businesses, the project has played a pivotal role in revitalizing the local economy and creating opportunities for entrepreneurs to thrive.
SPARK: A Catalyst for Change Empowering Youth and Entrepreneurs
SPARK, the Amsterdam-based international non-governmental organization implementing the DAHIL Project, has a longstanding reputation for empowering young people in the Middle East, North Africa, and Sub-Saharan Africa. Since its inception in 1994, SPARK has provided education, employment, and entrepreneurship opportunities, particularly for women and refugees.
DAHIL Project’s Achievements: Fostering Economic Recovery and Women Empowerment
Despite facing challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the earthquakes, the DAHIL Project has achieved significant milestones:
- Training: 450 SMEs received training to improve their financial access, while 250 SMEs underwent business skills training through Chambers of Commerce.
- New Businesses: The project facilitated the establishment of 40 new businesses, fostering entrepreneurship and job creation.
- Women Empowerment: The project prioritized support for women entrepreneurs, enabling them to overcome barriers and pursue their business aspirations.
Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: The Stories of Nesrin Alhasan and Rahaf Shami
The DAHIL Project has been instrumental in empowering women entrepreneurs like Nesrin Alhasan, a former law student from Aleppo who established a textile workshop in Şanlıurfa. Despite the challenges of being a woman and a refugee, Nesrin participated in an expo in Adana and a business networking event in Şanlıurfa, exploring export opportunities and expanding her business horizons.
Another inspiring story is that of Rahaf Shami, a Syrian entrepreneur who transitioned from babysitting to founding her own company, the Advocacy and Support Provider Team for Solutions and Capacity Development (ASP Team). With the support of the DAHIL Project, Rahaf received training, leadership consultation, legal advice, and material support, enabling her to grow her business and serve over 30 clients.
EU’s unwavering commitment to Reconstruction and Economic Recovery
The Head of the European Union Delegation to Türkiye, Ambassador Nikolaus Meyer-Landrut, emphasized the EU’s commitment to supporting SMEs and reconstructing economic and social life in the aftermath of the earthquakes. He highlighted the DAHIL Project’s crucial role in providing hope and opportunities for entrepreneurs in these challenging times.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Resilience and Renewed Prosperity
The DAHIL Project, with its focus on financial access, business skills training, and women empowerment, has made a lasting impact on entrepreneurs in the earthquake-affected regions of Türkiye. The project’s legacy will continue to inspire and empower entrepreneurs, fostering economic recovery and creating a brighter future for all.