After months of planning and two months of intensive execution, I’ve just concluded one of the most rewarding and challenging projects of my career. This was not only a professional milestone but also a personal turning point as I entered Lebanon’s public sector for the first time. I had the privilege of leading the implementation of the first model of integrating youth volunteering into Lebanon’s public sector, specifically at the Ministry of Finance.
A First Encounter with the Public Sector
When I first stepped into Lebanon’s public sector, it felt like stepping into uncharted territory. I had worked on many projects before, but the public sector brought with it a unique set of challenges that were unlike anything I had encountered.
At first, I felt like I was in over my head. The system was so different from what I was used to, and I had to quickly adjust to the challenges of navigating it. There were moments when I felt frustrated—when things didn’t move as quickly as I hoped, or when I couldn’t find the answers I needed immediately. But what I hadn’t expected was how much this experience would teach me about patience and strategic thinking.
Over time, I began to understand that working in the public sector wasn’t about pushing through change quickly or forcefully; it was about being patient, making calculated moves, and building the right relationships. Collaboration became the key, as I realized that the real work came from connecting with the right people, understanding the system’s intricacies, and learning to move within its constraints to get things done. This first encounter didn’t just challenge me; it transformed how I approach problems and solutions.
A Turning Point: Youth Making a Difference
What made this project particularly exciting was the role of youth volunteers. With a growing need for young professionals in Lebanon’s public sector, we created an opportunity to bring fresh energy and perspectives into the heart of national operations. These 60 youth volunteers, selected from diverse regions across Lebanon, were not only given the chance to contribute, they were positioned as active agents of change.
Their work focused on assisting with the reactivation of core public functions, particularly in supporting the Ministry’s efforts to improve resource mobilization. This initiative wasn’t just about assisting; it was about making a real impact on Lebanon’s financial systems and demonstrating that youth can contribute meaningfully to national-level development.
Overcoming Challenges and Growing Through the Experience
The challenges I faced during this project were significant. From navigating the complex public sector environment to managing the logistics of coordinating with various teams, the road was not always smooth.
However, these challenges became an opportunity for growth. I had to quickly adapt to the intricacies of public sector work, learning how to handle complex processes and deal with issues that weren’t always immediately solvable. But the most valuable lesson I learned was how to remain calm and composed under pressure. This project taught me how to face adversity head-on, maintaining professionalism while working through difficult situations.
Transforming Projects into National-Level Impact
What made this project particularly significant for me was the scale at which it operated. This wasn’t just another initiative; it was a national effort that had the potential to affect how youth engage with Lebanon’s public sector moving forward. This project marked the first model of integrating youth volunteering into public sector operations in Lebanon, something that, in many ways, was long overdue.
The success of this initiative wasn’t measured by the number of volunteering hours completed or the tasks completed; it was measured by the shift in mindset. We proved that youth could be the reason and the resource that the government can depend on for development and making a change.
Looking Forward: A Legacy of Youth Empowerment
As I reflect on the success of this project, I can’t help but think about the future. The public sector, despite its challenges, has the potential to become a true platform for youth leadership and innovation. This project was just the beginning, and I’m already thinking about the next steps—how can we extend this model to other sectors?
For me, this experience has not only added significant value to my professional portfolio but has also deepened my understanding of the complexities of public sector operations. It has also reinforced my belief that youth have the power to drive meaningful change, not just in the future, but today.
To know more about the event, you can check UNDP’s press release and album.
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