MAKKEN
MAKKEN – Mobilizing Youth for Community-Led Change! A dynamic initiative designed to empower youth in North Lebanon and Akkar to drive community-led solutions, foster peaceful coexistence, and build sustainable, resilient communities. Inspired by the success of MACAN and CATALYST, MAKKEN strengthens youth-led action in the face of displacement, conflict, and socio-economic challenges.
MAKKEN project is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). This project is implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) in partnership with the Ministry of Social Affairs and in cooperation with INJAZ Lebanon and the municipalities of Al Mina, Bourj Al Yahoudiyeh, Deir Ammar, Kfarhelda, Mishmish, and Tripoli.
WHO & WHERE
MAKKEN engages youth aged 18 to 35 and from diverse backgrounds – host communities, displaced populations, and refugees – across six municipalities in North Lebanon and Akkar: Al Mina, Bourj Al Yahoudiyeh, Deir Ammar, Kfarhelda, Mishmish, and Tripoli. At least 50% of participants will be women, ensuring inclusive leadership in community transformation.
ACTIVITIES
Skill-Building & Leadership Development
Through five interactive workshops, youth will gain essential skills in:
- Community Engagement & Building Trust
Mobilizing communities & fostering collaboration.
- Advanced Needs Assessment & Data Privacy
Conducting surveys & mapping real needs.
- Sustainability & Development
Ensuring long-term impact with Do No Harm approaches.
- Problem-Solving & Human-Centered Design
Creating solutions that meet real community challenges.
- Project Planning, Management & Risk Mitigation
Turning ideas into actionable, sustainable initiatives.
Community-Driven Initiatives
Youth will form 18 Youth Working Groups (YWGs), developing at least 12 local initiatives focused on:
- Community Health & Well-being
- Food Security
- Social Inclusion & Disability
- Learning & Skill Building for Youth
- Environmental Sustainability
Each initiative will leverage existing community resources to ensure local ownership and long-term sustainability. One large-scale initiative will be implemented across all municipalities to address regional challenges collaboratively.
Mentorship & Hands-On Engagement
Each YWG will receive ongoing mentorship from experts, engage in field visits, and collaborate with local and international stakeholders to refine and implement their initiatives effectively.
PHASES
The MAKKEN program follows a structured, action-driven process:
Phase 1: Training & Capacity Building
Equipping youth with knowledge and tools.
Phase 2: Initiative Design & Development
Youth identify community challenges & design solutions.
Phase 3: Implementation & Community Engagement
Launch of 12+ impact-driven initiatives.
Phase 4: Sustainability & Network Building
Securing long-term impact through partnerships.
IMPACT
150 youth trained in community engagement & leadership.
90 youth actively leading initiatives through YWGs.
500+ community members engaged in workshops & events.
Sustainable solutions developed to support both host & displaced communities.
Strengthened collaboration between youth, municipalities, NGOs, and development agencies.
STRENGTHENING COMMUNITIES
With MAKKEN, real change starts with local action. By initiating or joining community-driven efforts, youth can help transform challenges into opportunities for growth, inclusion, and peace. Whether big or small, youth’s contribution strengthens the fabric of their community and creates lasting impact for all.