SMART Centre & American Ambassador complete in Baaqline the SheLeads programme and promote US relations

The SMART centre for “specialized & advertising research & training center”organised an event in collaboration with the American Embassy in Beirut.  The event was held at the hall of the American Cultural Forum at the public library in Baaqline and was an occasion to announce the completion of the SheLeads programme funded by the American Embassy and which included a number of training workshops, and an English language competition in which 135 women from the region participated.  The overall aim of this initiative was to strengthen women's role in engaging in social, political and health issues in their communities.

The director of SMART centre, Randa Yassir, encouraged women to continue to find ways to develop and advance in various sectors.  For his part the American ambassador thanked all those involved in the programme and acknowledged the strong partnership through the Forum which offers to women and their communities, important information about the USA and its culture, and provides a space for learning and exchange between Lebanese and Americans.  He also added that women's success paves the way for their children to advance as well as for women to strengthen their role in society.  He also reiterated the importance of all the opportunities available to girls to continue their education and to pursue a career and to enjoy being well prepared mothers.  At the end of the event, prizes were distributed to participants who won the competition for best article.

Source: Al Mustaqbal and Al Diyar 29 March 2014