Ana Kamen Project – Lebanon

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Ana Kamen Project – Lebanon Report (English Version)


Supported by: Lycée Saint-Louis de Gonzague (Franklin, Paris)
Project Title: Ana Kamen – Lebanon
Beneficiaries: 31 participants
Location: Lebanon (Deir El Harf, Bikfaya, Beirut, South Lebanon)
Project Year: 2024

1. Introduction

The Ana Kamen project in Lebanon, funded by the Lycée Saint-Louis de Gonzague – Franklin, works with 31 beneficiaries from various organizations, associations, and universities, including students from disadvantaged regions.

Among them are psychosocial support specialists who play a crucial role in responding to Lebanon’s ongoing crises, especially in the South. These individuals are on the frontlines, supporting affected communities while also carrying their own emotional burdens.

The project provides a safe and supportive space where beneficiaries can:

  • Share their emotions and difficult experiences openly.

  • Release accumulated stress and trauma.

  • Access moments of rest and reflection away from daily pressures.

Through psychosocial, social, and spiritual activities, Ana Kamen aims to enhance participants’ mental health, resilience, and sense of belonging while helping them strengthen their capacity to continue supporting others.

2. Main Objectives

The program seeks to empower participants and improve overall well-being through:

  • Releasing emotions and processing trauma.

  • Recognizing personal strengths and weaknesses and accepting them.

  • Understanding personal limits, energies, and skills while learning to value them.

  • Developing emotional maturity and resilience.

  • Enhancing communication skills.

  • Gaining a clearer, objective perspective on life and decision-making.

  • Achieving harmony between thoughts, words, and actions.

This holistic approach integrates mental, social, and spiritual dimensions, enabling participants to rebuild balance and find meaning amid Lebanon’s challenging realities.

3. Dramatherapy & Art-Therapy

The project introduces innovative tools to promote healing, using two main techniques:

Dramatherapy

A form of psychotherapy using theatrical techniques for self-expression, healing, and emotional release. Through role-playing, storytelling, and interactive exercises, participants explore emotions, process challenges, and achieve a sense of catharsis.

Art-Therapy

This creative approach helps participants express emotions and manage stress through painting, drawing, collage, sculpture, and other artistic activities. It enables individuals to visualize inner struggles and transform them into personal growth.

Objectives of Both Approaches:

  • Facilitate emotional expression when words are insufficient.

  • Provide safe tools for processing trauma.

  • Strengthen self-confidence and creativity.

  • Offer opportunities to build supportive relationships with peers.

4. Implementation in Lebanon

All Ana Kamen weekends in Lebanon are held at the Sisters of Saint Joseph de Lyon School in Deir El Harf, offering a safe retreat environment.

A. Dramatherapy Weekend (July 12 – 14, 2024)

  • Led by: Cosette Dib & Jean Daccache

  • Focus: Self-expression & emotional release through physical warm-ups, breathing techniques, role-play, and personal storytelling.

  • Activities included:

    • “Emptying the First-Aid Kit” ritual to express emotional states.

    • Creating personal stories inspired by real-life experiences.

    • Nature walks, improvisation sessions, and group bonding activities.

  • Outcomes: Participants reported relief, empowerment, and renewed energy.

B. Art-Therapy Weekend (July 26 – 28, 2024)

  • Led by: Toufic Melhem & Yara Abdallah

  • Focus: Creativity for self-discovery and healing.

  • Activities included:

    • Painting “Safe Spaces” representing self-image and emotional states.

    • Collage and charcoal self-portraits for deeper introspection.

    • Wire art for improving focus and fine motor skills.

    • Meditation breaks in nature to restore calm and connection.

  • Outcomes: Participants reported reduced anxiety, improved self-awareness, and stronger emotional balance.

C. Dramatherapy Weekend (August 30 – September 1, 2024)

  • Led by: Natacha Rizk & Jean Daccache

  • Focus: Body expression and trauma release.

  • Activities included:

    • Guided breathing and voice expression exercises.

    • Role-play scenarios to confront internal conflicts and process personal struggles.

    • Evening group reflections and nature hikes for mental grounding.

    • Closing circle with personal affirmations and group gratitude.