In a context marked by increasing poverty, fear, and social isolation, Ali’s only thought was to find a way to emigrate, hoping to build a dignified life and support his family still in Syria.
Every day, Ali faced the same questions: “What should I do? Where should I start? Who should I talk to?”
He had many dreams, but the economic and social conditions left no space for possibility.
But when everything seemed lost, someone decided to reach out and listen to him.
It was not a friend or a relative, but a person who had heard about his situation and suggested he get in touch with Christian Solidarity International (CSI).
CSI places human dignity, especially that of vulnerable minorities, at the centre of its work, seeking to light a spark even in the darkest moments.
This mission would impact Ali.
Through several conversations and phone calls, a CSI consultant listened to him carefully, trying to understand who he was, what his talents were, and to help him reflect on how he could use his abilities to build something in his own land.
She only knew him by phone, and Ali’s voice sounded lackluster, marked by deep depression and the feeling of having no future ahead.
The CSI consultant was initially cautious to believe the young man could realistically start a sustainable business.
Yet, after discussing the case with CSI’s leadership, they decided together to give him a chance, to believe in him, and to invest in that small spark of hope that remained.
From despondence to confidence
That patient listening and timely trust were, for Ali, like opening a window in a wall that had been closed for years.
It was not just material help, but an encounter that restored his dignity and the strength to stand up again.
With funds received from CSI, Ali started a clothing sales business, first online, then in a small shop he bravely managed to rent.
He also involved his unemployed sister, allowing her to take part and earn a modest income.
At the same time, he dedicated himself to repairing mobile phones, leveraging his technical skills and remarkable organisational ability.
“I used most of the money to buy clothes and set aside a little, so I could also make deliveries. I’m even doing some work with phones now”, Ali explained.
Of CSI’s support, he said: “Honestly, I don’t know how to thank you: everything I am able to do today is thanks to you”.
Responsible management
During subsequent follow-up calls, the CSI consultant was surprised and impressed by Ali’s maturity in managing his project.
Despite his young age and limited business experience, he was able to maintain his capital, save, and plan new purchases of goods.
Each sale became an exercise in responsibility for him, carefully dividing his earnings, allocating a portion to investments and a portion to family needs.
This responsible management has become a tangible sign of his talent and determination.
CSI’s consultant found Ali to be a capable young steward of the capital entrusted to him by God: he safeguards its value, makes it grow, and through his work, restores hope to his family and community.
Each time Ali earns something and witnesses his progress, he says: “I remember that first gesture: not a donation, but an encounter that restored my dignity and the awareness that good still exists”.
Today, Ali continues to grow his business step by step. He is no longer the sad young man who dreamed only of escape: he is a young entrepreneur who, slowly but confidently, is building his own hope.
His story testifies that sometimes the greatest change does not come from finding a way out, nor from material help alone, but from having someone believe in you.
