Results & Insights
Enhancing Employability and Economic Resilience in Jordan: The Impact of Skills4Work II
Skills4Work II is a transformative Three-year project aimed at empowering both Jordanian host communities and refugees by providing demand-driven skills development. This project, designed to tackle high unemployment rates and economic instability, focuses on enhancing employability, creating job opportunities, and promoting sustainable livelihoods. Through a collaborative approach involving loca...
Tunisia’s Sustainable Future: Green Innovations Shaping the Country’s Landscape
Tunisia is becoming a North African leader in green innovation through diverse eco-friendly projects that are not only designed to protect the environment but also to drive sustainable economic development. Tunisia is harnessing its abundant natural resources to drive a sustainable future. These efforts span various sectors, from harnessing solar power and eco-tourism to urban greening all contrib...
Tasneem Al-Oran: Empowering Communities Through Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Tasneem Al-Oran, the founder of Craft Resin Industrial Design, is a 29-year-old geological engineer from Al-Tafileh whose business started by her love for art and technology. Her remarkable entrepreneurial endeavor merges traditional handicrafts with cutting-edge technologies such as resin, laser cutting, and 3D printing. Through her products, Tasneem has created a lasting impact on her community ...
Building Resilience: The Inspiring Story of Sara Ghazal and Majjara
Sara Ghazal, a 34-year-old engineer from Aqaba, is blending her passion for personal growth and productivity into a thriving business that’s transforming lives. After pursuing a diploma in psychological counseling, art therapy, and emotional intelligence, Sara founded Majjara, a project designed to help people unlock emotional clarity and personal development.
Jordan’s Eastern Badia: Where Tradition and Adventure Come Alive
The Eastern Badia region of Jordan, an expansive and rugged stretch of desert, offers a unique and underexplored landscape rich in natural beauty, history, and cultural diversity. Covering a significant portion of Jordan's northeastern desert, the Eastern Badia remains one of the country's most fascinating regions. It stands apart with its striking contrasts of arid desert plains, lush nature rese...
The Green Economy in Jordan: Sustainability Leading the Way for Growth
Jordan is embracing a green growth model designed to shape a sustainable future, addressing the economic, social, and environmental challenges facing the country. In a time when economic and environmental challenges are reaching new heights, adopting this approach is not just an option,it’s essential . The National Green Growth Plan (NGGP) serves as Jordan’s guiding light, aligning green initi...
Transforming Dreams with CERA: Asma’s Journey to Healthy Products
Located in the heart of Al Salt, Asma's Healthy Products isn’t just a food brand, it is a celebration of resilience, innovation, and the power of community. Founded by the inspiring Asma Al-Weshah, this local business has grown from a humble, home based project into a beloved producer of gluten-free and traditional treats. Asma’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and an unwavering commitm...
Karam Al-Tarawneh: Bridging Gaps with Innovation
At 28 years old, Karam Al-Tarawneh, founder and CEO of the Hero Super App, is redefining how technology can simplify lives and empower communities. Born and raised in Al Karak Governorate, Karam grew up witnessing firsthand the challenges his community faced—challenges he saw as opportunities for meaningful change.
From Vision to Impact: How Sawaed19 is Revolutionizing Volunteering in Palestine
In the heart of Palestine, a young visionary named Hiba transformed frustration into innovation. A top IT student and aspiring leader, Hiba experienced the challenges of disorganized volunteer efforts firsthand during a university service course. Her 120-hour stint fixing a flagpole at the Nablus Shopping Festival sparked a realization: volunteering needed a smarter, more impactful approach.
The Role of Women in Entrepreneurship and Their Unique Needs in the Jordanian Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
Women are a driving force in Jordan’s entrepreneurial landscape, contributing to economic growth, job creation, and innovation across diverse sectors. Their participation spans fields like Artificial Intelligence (AI), green and blue economies, and creative industries linked to the orange and purple economies. Women are also leading efforts in sustainable tourism, blending cultural preservation ...
The Role of AI in Transforming Jordan’s Entrepreneurial Landscape
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming industries worldwide by driving innovation and reshaping businesses. In Jordan, AI is playing a key role in helping startups tackle local challenges while competing on a regional and global scale. With strong national strategies supporting digital transformation, Jordan is paving the way for startups to use AI effectively in their entrepreneurial projec...
Jordan’s Creative Potential: The Promise of Orange and Purple Economies
In today’s economy, creativity and cultural heritage are emerging as key drivers of sustainable development. The orange economy, encompassing industries like media, arts, fashion, and design, and the purple economy, centered on cultural heritage and preservation, offer Jordan transformative opportunities. With a rich history, vibrant cultural identity, and a growing pool of creative talent, thes...
Study Highlights Critical Skills Gaps and Employment Needs in Jordanian Private Sector
A comprehensive study conducted under the Skills4Work II project has revealed significant insights into the private sector's employment needs and workforce readiness within Jordan's landscape. Designed to enhance employability and economic resilience for Jordanian host communities and Syrian refugees, Skills4Work II addresses the challenges of matching skills with market demands and developing sus...
Amal Al-Shalabi’s Journey of Growth with CERA Project Support
Located in a serene Jordanian village, Al-Amal Farm is more than a business—it’s a story of resilience, innovation, and tradition. Founded by Amal Al-Shalabi, this dairy enterprise has blossomed from a modest home-based pursuit into a celebrated producer of artisanal cheeses and dairy products. Today, Amal is a symbol of empowerment and dedication in her community, proving that with the right ...
Green and Blue Economies as the Future of Entrepreneurship
In a world increasingly driven by climate action and sustainable development, Jordan is poised to lead the region in sustainable innovation, with abundant solar resources, rich marine biodiversity in the Gulf of Aqaba, and progressive environmental policies. Green and blue economies, which emphasise sustainability and resource efficiency, present immense opportunities for Jordanian entrepreneurs t...
Al Dahek: The Unique White Desert and its Geological and Ecological importance as Geopark
Located in the Northeastern desert of Jordan, Al Dahek, also known as the White Desert, is a natural gem that has captured the attention of geologists, ecologists, and adventurers alike. Covering approximately 265 square kilometres in the Zarqa Governorate, this vast expanse of chalky-white rock formations is not only a striking visual wonder but also a site of great geological and ecological sign...
The Trans Tunisia Trekking Trail: A Journey of Community Empowerment
As we conclude the Trans Tunisia Trekking Trail project, we reflect on a journey that has reshaped the landscape of sustainable tourism in Tunisia and uplifted local communities. Over the past two years, this initiative has been more than just a development project; it has been a catalyst for change, fostering connections between people and the stunning natural environments they inhabit.
Highlighting the Hackathon and Crowdsourcing Competition Successes
The Digital Innovations for Peace (DIP) project, aimed at fostering social resilience in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, has made significant progress in countering disinformation and promoting a peaceful digital environment. Two events under this project, the Hackathon and the Crowdsourcing Competition showcased innovative solutions and highlighted the region's talent in digital m...
Supporting Al Shaumari Wildlife Reserve: A Plan to Enhance our Rangeland
Al Shaumari Wildlife Reserve is setting on an inspiring journey. Our mission is to uphold the authenticity of its rangelands, strengthen wildlife populations, and maintain the natural beauty and balance of its unique ecosystem. We will achieve this through collaborative conservation efforts, scientific research, community engagement, and sustainable management practices tailored to the specific ne...
Startups Pitch for a Resilient Digital Future to Key Stakeholders
Leaders International, alongside its partners Deutsche Welle Academy and Elbrio Media Foundation and with the funding of the EU, will continue to support and mentor startups, ensuring they have the resources and guidance needed to thrive. The commitment to reinforcing social resilience and combating disinformation remains strong, with plans for future programs and events already underway.
An Integrated Value Added Model
The global landscape of corporate responsibility is evolving rapidly, driven by increasing demands for transparency and accountability. Companies worldwide are now expected to integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into their operations, aligning with global sustainability goals and addressing pressing issues such as climate change and social inequality.
The Role of ESG Principles in Jordanian Enterprises
The global landscape of corporate responsibility is evolving rapidly, driven by increasing demands for transparency and accountability. Companies worldwide are now expected to integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into their operations, aligning with global sustainability goals and addressing pressing issues such as climate change and social inequality.
Highlights from the EDGE Project Pitch Event
EDGE aims to transform the enrollment of Palestinian talents in the global digital economy by enhancing entrepreneurial capacities and fostering the development of freelancing agencies. This initiative seeks to unlock the sector's full economic potential and increase employment opportunities, particularly among qualified youth and women.
VeriFast Empowering Digital Citizens Against Misinformation
VeriFast originated from Ghayth Khezami's vision nurtured within the collaborative framework of the DIP project. Its mission? To equip users with a reliable compass in the turbulent sea of online information, utilising Facebook standards and AI technology to enhance the verification process. With Ghayth at the command, VeriFast surfaced as a symbol of reliability in the digital landscape.
NashamaStart Project: Revolutionising Jordan’s Tech Startup Ecosystem
At the heart of NashamaStart lies a profound alignment with Jordan's strategic imperatives for economic diversification, job creation, and technological advancement.
Corporate Citizenship: Navigating the Intersection of Business and Society
In the connection between corporations and society, corporate citizenship has become a significant factor, shaping the landscape of ethical, environmental, and humanitarian obligations.
Elevating Environmental Consciousness in MENA:
The Role of Innovative Fact-Checking in Promoting Sustainable Awareness
Ecolo is a user-friendly platform combating environmental misinformation. It utilises citizen science, where users contribute data, then verified by experts, and presented in an engaging format. Ecolo explores topics like climate change, biodiversity, and pollution categorised by regions and types. The application aims to bridge the awareness gap in North Africa and the Middle East, providing accu...
CERA project: empowering rural Jordanian SMEs to upscale and compete
CERA's mission is to assist rural SMEs in aligning with the needs of larger business enterprises, emphasising aspects like quality control and reliable, high-volume production. By doing so, CERA offers corporations compelling reasons to prioritise local, emerging suppliers when developing their supply chains.
Upskilling and uniting Libyan mothers to curtail the spread of ‘fake news’
For Libyan nationals, accessing accurate information about the current status of their country and other important matters can be challenging. The issue, of course, is 'fake news' – which has been weaponised to devastating effect all over the world, not only in Libya.
Beit Sweimeh: the amazing restaurant powering women and alternative tourism in Jordan Valley
Less than 2km from the shores of the Dead Sea in the Sweimeh area of the Jordan Valley, Sireen Al Shareef, a mother of four, runs a restaurant that seems to be catching the attention of everyone passing through.
Can SMEs and workers survive the AI revolution?
When it comes to AI, the time for MENA businesses to pick up the baton is now. And contrary to what many MSME owners believe, AI is not just for the technologically-advanced elite.
Harnessing knowledge sharing to fuel economic growth and smart city development
The success and sustainability of smart cities hinges on effective knowledge sharing. These cities, known for their technological innovation, serve as models for the future of urban living, greatly improving the quality of life for residents.
From mother’s determination to a health-conscious brand: Rula’s entrepreneurial leap into the food supply chain
In a world where finding genuinely nutritious snacks seemed like an impossible task, Rula Ishhac, an agricultural engineer and loving mother of four from Amman, Jordan, took matters into her own hands. Frustrated with the lack of options in the market, she embarked on a journey to provide her children with nourishing snacks.
The blue economy: empowering Middle Eastern and African economies for sustainable growth
We believe that promoting sustainable ways for businesses in undeveloped countries to thrive in coastal areas will lead to increased economic diversification, foster innovation, and promote inclusivity.
How 18-year-old Rima is using her business and digital media skills to help Tunisian youth to shun ‘time-wasting’ online content
Empowering Tunisian youth to combat time-wasting online content. Meet Rima Abbes, the 18-year-old behind 'Logos,' a start-up creating engaging, informative content for digital literacy.
The trekking trail economy: making economic sense for hikers and local communities
In today's always-switched-on world, misinformation and fake news can spread like wildfire – and this poses significant political and social dangers.
How Mamoun is reinventing his tourism offering in Jordan
Born and raised in Wadi Musa, Among the things that fascinated Mamoun was the evidence he found of the astronomy methods employed by the Nabateans, the 2,000 year old Arab inhabitants.
How ready are SMEs in the MENA region for a greener, more sustainable future?
It’s a question that has never been more pertinent – just how ready are the region’s SMEs to take on a challenge/opportunity that is shaping the world of tomorrow?
Can digital freelance-agencies help to rebuild jobs for Palestinians?
'Gig workers’ can create their own flexible shifts, work on short-term contracts, for an array of clients and seamlessly access international markets.
What is Corporate Entrepreneurship Responsibility – and why is it helping to shape the future of MSMEs in Jordan?
When a large enterprise commits to CER, it helps to support the creation of jobs and accelerate economic development in the communities where they operate.
Helping digital entrepreneurs and media professionals to challenge fake news
In today's always-switched-on world, misinformation and fake news can spread like wildfire – and this poses significant political and social dangers.
Tunisia takes visitors off the beaten track in a new approach to sustainable tourism
Tunisia's tourism sector has long been dominated by a handful of well-known coastal resorts that cater to international visitors who typically
An Economic Outlook on Jordanian MSMEs
To strengthen and localise supply chains in Jordan, we conducted a study to assess the main needs and challenges of Jordanian MSMEs. We assessed nine different industrial sectors in Jordan using a combination of primary and secondary...
How can tourism contribute to sustainable development?
Tourism can contribute to sustainable development in a number of ways. Not only does it sustain resources, heritage, and livelihoods, but rather improve them as well. When planned, developed, and managed appropriately...
Dr. Rasha challenges gender stereotypes in male-dominated industry
In most countries, the consensus that women do not belong in certain ‘masculine’ sectors persists to this day. Sadly, many women in male-dominated fields are as a result sidelined and often left out of opportunities and dialogue...
How community-based tourism can spur inclusive development
While stellar advancements in science and technology have remarkably improved our connectivity, they have also disconnected people – from the environment, each other, and their own selves...
Unlocking access to finance for non-bankable entrepreneurs
Many developing countries are marked by substantial unbanked populations with no access to a formal financial system. While some refuse to be banked on their own accord, others are simply excluded against their will...
Sparking youth empowerment from within
Ala’ Wrikat, 29, has always been a solemn believer in the power of youth to drive development and progress. To him, young people hold the keys to a brighter, more prosperous tomorrow...
Innovative media: adding life to smart cities
Smart cities are a modern-day concoction addressing one of today’s biggest phenomena: rising urbanisation as a result of increasing migration to cities. They are regarded as a resource management framework for their ability to harness the power of technology...
Mohammad’s digital career: a catalyst for personal and professional growth
To Mohammad Aljazzazi, digital work broadens one’s horizons and cultivates skills that are otherwise difficult to develop as an employee in a conventional working environment. “When you are a freelance digital worker, you are basically representing...
Traditional sectors in Palestine weaving through challenges to recover and rebuild
The spread of COVID-19 has led to unprecedented devastations in every corner of the world. Emerging nations, who have struggled to gain a strong foothold even prior to the pandemic are now facing compounded challenges to the economy...
Sawsan’s take on natural, clean beauty
For years, Sawsan Khlaif had suffered from extreme hair loss due to chemical products and hair straightening treatments. The 26-year-old Palestinian then decided to seek out natural alternatives but did not find what she was looking for exactly...
Future skills for future cities
Smart cities continue to proliferate around the globe as the solution to a more efficient way of life. They are the work of multi-fold layers of technology woven together to create futuristic, urban places to live, work, and visit. When on display, we see...
Abdelhafiz’s story: from SME support to job creation and widespread growth
The Industrial Revolutions and digital communications have increased the pace of our lives, and with it, the way we do business. For Abdelhafiz, Owner and Founder of Safe Technology for Plastic Industries in Sahab, Jordan, time is a crucial...
How we steer entrepreneurship and innovation for climate action
With rising temperatures, loss of biodiversity, tragic floods, intense storms, and record heat waves, our planet is undoubtedly in critical peril. Fortunately, there is hope for a better future so long as we raise awareness and take collective urgent action...
A designer’s digital journey against all odds
In Jordan, unemployment continues to persist to this day, affecting millions of families all over the country. Specifically, women and youth are the most vulnerable groups, characterised by disproportionately high rates. Nouseibah, 27...
Our outlook on sustainable travel in Jordan
Sustainable travel – responsible experience with consideration to local communities and the natural environment – should be the only way we travel. In Jordan, and other developing economies, sustainable travel has an unrivalled power...
A team of Palestinian entrepreneurs to combat food loss and waste
Jebreel Haj Salah from Palestine, a nature enthusiast, has for long advocated the importance of green solutions in agriculture. What upsets him most is the problem of products expiring early. “It is not only costly but also generates a lot of food...
From disability to ability: a transformative journey
For years, Qusai, 29, had struggled to find a stable job due to his disability. Nevertheless, he did not despair and continued trying with unwavering faith and determination.
Making peace with nature through green innovation
Human well-being is critically dependent on the Earth’s natural systems. Despite exponential economic, social, and technological advances seen in the past decade, environmental damage continues to spiral downwards, posing a serious and almost-inevitable threat to human prosperity.
Engaging Jordanian entrepreneurs in solving ministerial challenges
In today’s world, digital transformation is not solely exclusive to the private sector. It is just as well key in transforming governments and public sector institutions.
Digital work as a fast-track to smart cities
In line with the global shift towards digitalisation, an increasing number of industries are opting for hybrid work arrangements for the first time, with digital transformation becoming a core focus for many sectors. The need to rapidly digitise operations has, in several ways, accelerated the move toward smart cities; i.e. areas where traditional networks and services are made more efficient with...
Setting the scene for solo travel in Jordan
Travelling alone, dubbed “solo travelling” across the blogosphere, has taken the tourism industry by storm with more and more people eager to venture into the unknown in search of meaning and purpose. The experience, increasingly popular among millennials and generation Z, provides an exhilarating mix of adventure, disconnection, empowerment, and self-development.
Skilling for new livelihood opportunities in Jordan
Since February, we have partnered with EFE - Jordan to train around 150 Syrian refugees and host community members in Jordan to improve their employability and livelihood skills. The training, which is part of our Skills4Work project, funded by the Regional Development and Protection Programme for Lebanon, Jordan, and Iraq (RDPP II), covers soft and technical skills for manufacturing sectors inclu...
Supporting ecopreneurs to drive sustainable living
The world is facing unprecedented challenges caused by our current approach to consumption and production. In 2019 alone, 92 billion tonnes of materials were extracted and processed, contributing to almost half of the global CO2 emissions. As such, there is mounting pressure to shift toward a circular economy, whereby elimination of waste and safe use of natural resources are promoted.
A public-private partnership in Jordan will boost innovation, digitization, and economic opportunities
Public-private partnership (PPP), which establishes cooperation and collaboration between public bodies and private organizations, is gaining traction worldwide. By bringing together private expertise with public resources, this arrangement provides efficient, high-quality services and infrastructure at a better value for money.
A look into the present and future of smart agriculture
Cities everywhere are opting to incorporate smart technologies to solve some of their most pressing issues, from transportation to healthcare. Similarly, agriculture has emerged as another component that can be significantly enhanced through the utilisation of “smart systems” and then successfully integrated within the wider picture of smart cities.
Navigating the shift towards digital work in Jordan
While conventional calendars employed the 'Before the Common Era' (BCE) and 'Anno Domini' (AD) system, the coronavirus outbreak has revealed a new sense of time. “Post-COVID” is the beginning of a new epoch, transforming economies, cultures, and behaviours and expediting the arrival of a new type of work: digital work, otherwise known as digiwork.
Skills4Work upskills refugees and host communities in Jordan
Over the past century, the expansion of global economies has posed environmental challenges that demand a radical rethink in our priorities, habits, and systems.
Five reasons to support green business
Over the past century, the expansion of global economies has posed environmental challenges that demand a radical rethink in our priorities, habits, and systems.
What COVID-19 vaccines mean for recovery of travel MSMEs
With the recent rollout of COVID-19 vaccines, the light at the end of the tunnel is starting to shine for the tourism industry. However, the process of approval, production, and distribution will still take plenty of time – possibly till the end of 2021
Smart traffic management for smarter cities in MENA
Once dubbed as “the technology that can end traffic jams”, it is no secret that the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to promote efficient transportation has been heavily praised in recent years;
New economic opportunities for refugees and host communities in Jordan
The outbreak of the virus has so far caused an economic fallout all over the world. As COVID-19 cases increase, commodity prices decrease, unemployment rises, stock markets flounder, and value chains continue to fail
Trade shows: their importance and predicted changes during and post COVID-19
The outbreak of the virus has so far caused an economic fallout all over the world. As COVID-19 cases increase, commodity prices decrease, unemployment rises, stock markets flounder, and value chains continue to fail
COVID-19 hits Africa’s three main sources of income
The outbreak of the virus has so far caused an economic fallout all over the world. As COVID-19 cases increase, commodity prices decrease, unemployment rises, stock markets flounder, and value chains continue to fail
5 essential tactics to drive digital transformation in your business support organisation
Digital transformation, the process of employing new technologies or upgrading existing tools, is crucial in the transition to a fourth industrial revolution economy; especially with COVID-19 being the main catalyst of such pivotal transformation worldwide.
Inclusive development in the face of rapid urbanisation in Jordan
Not too long ago, Jordanian society had been primarily characterised by rural and nomadic culture. In the past 2 decades, however, urbanisation skyrocketed to just over 90%, with a significant multitude
COVID-19 impact on Jordanian exports
COVID-19 Impact on Jordanian Exports 10 Jun 2020 Top Jordanian Exports by Industry Source: (OEC, 2017) Export-led Growth Prior to Covid-19 Lockdowns and Closures Reduction in Exports Following Covid-19 Lockdowns and Closures R ...
The circular economy vs. COVID-19
The outbreak of the novel Coronavirus came at a time when the world was preparing for a quick transition to circular economy. In 2018, the United Nations declared plastic pollution as a global crisis.
Tourism in Tunisia amid COVID-19
Tourism in Tunisia Amid COVID-19 04 Jun 2020 Population of +11.5 million in 2019 Unemployment of +15% in 2019; as high as 30% in some cities .st0{fill:#F2F6F9;} .st1{fill:#FFFFFF;} .st2{fill:#B4B1C9;} .st3{fill:#1A2B7A;} .st4{fill:#FF7481;} .st5{fill:#FF5C6B;} .st6{fill:#C9D7F5;} .st7{fill:#2AC48A;} ...
Can smart cities win the fight against COVID-19?
Over the past few months, COVID-19 has had a huge devastating impact on economics, governments, and civil society. From rising death tolls to disruptions in day-to-day
How MENA economies will look like in 2020 and 2021
How economies in MENA will look like in 2020 and 2021 07 May 2020 Projections of Real GDP for 2020 and 2021 in MENA Projections for the overall region Annual percent change in Real GDP Inflation (percent) ***The above data is based on the projections of th ...
A general outlook for the Palestinian economy in 2020
A General Outlook for the Palestinian Economy in 2020 04 May 2020 GDP estimates for 2020 Before COVID-19 2.4% After COVID-19 14% Economic losses of $2.5 billion Expected economic losses $ ...
COVID-19: the ordeal of labour and the tipping point for digiwork
COVID-19 implications on the workforce and society are profound. The International Labour Organisation (ILO) expected the loss of 25 million jobs worldwide early during the outbreak, and it expects the number to increase way more by the end of the year
Tourism resilience in the face of COVID-19 in Jordan
Tourism resilience in the face of COVID-19 in Jordan 22 Apr 2020 As the greatest global health crisis of our time, COVID-19 has hit the whole world hard, influencing markets, behaviours, and expectations. The pandemic has particularly taken its toll on tourism, with the industry facing immediate and devastating repercussions ...
Innovation opportunities in the future of startups and SMEs in MENA
Innovation opportunities in the future of startups and SMEs in MENA 12 Apr 2020 Inspired by Market Trends and Shifts in Demand Introduction Today’s necessity is not only the mother of invention, but of digital transformation, innovation, and the adoption of new habits.Fighting COVID-19 is now the world’s top necess ...
Is cultural immersion superseding conventional tourism in Jordan?
In the face of sweeping globalisation, the internet has revolutionised the concept and purpose of tourism worldwide. Travellers nowadays enjoy easy access to a wealth of photos, videos...
Taking enterprise development to the next level
One of the identified obstacles to enterprise development in developing markets is the lack of adequate access to business development services. Due to the disconnectedness of these markets...
Realities of the start-up economy in Palestine
As the world reaches the end of incrementalism, the Palestinian economy struggles to innovate, disrupt, and create change at the same speed and scale as worldwide technology progress. The developing economy of Palestine is constrained