Association Launch Ceremony

We launched Higher Metn Artisan on Friday, November 26, 2021, through a ceremony held at the hall of Al-Qalaa Al-Matniyya, under the patronage of the president of the Higher Metn Municipalities Union and Ras El Metn mayor Marwan Najeeb Bek Saleheh. For those who may not have noticed the timing: this date fell at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. After a period of calm that gave citizens hope the crisis was contained, the situation had once again deteriorated sharply, and health warnings were at their most severe on that very day. To everyone who wished to attend but could not — whether they had tested positive for COVID or were being careful about social gatherings — we know they were with us in spirit and always have been. The days that followed proved exactly that. The launch ceremony for Higher Metn Artisan was necessary to introduce the association to the community: why it was founded, what its goals are, and what vision it carries. What role have we chosen to play? What do we hope to achieve? We are grateful to everyone who attended despite the frightening circumstances of the pandemic — it is a gesture that speaks volumes. And to everyone who sent their apologies at the last minute, by message or by phone, and to all those whose circumstances prevented them from joining despite their sincere intention — we see you. We are woven from this community's fabric, and we exist to serve it. Higher Metn Artisan is simply one part of this society — one that may complement the work of others, and perhaps inspire others still. All we ask for is success for everyone working for their community and their fellow human being. Our country needs great effort and perseverance to move forward and rise.