As a child, Malik, lived in a modest apartment with his parents and two younger sisters. His father worked multiple jobs to keep food on the table, while his mother did her best to provide a loving and warm environment amidst the struggles of daily life. Growing up in the streets of Beirut, Malik was introduced to the duality of life at a young age. He experienced the unity of community celebrations, shared laughter and camaraderie, while also witnessing political unrest, sectarian violence, and the devastating effects of economic hardship.

A turning point in Malik’s life occurred during his early teens. A severe car bombing in his neighborhood tragically claimed his father’s life. This traumatic event thrust Malik into the role of the primary caretaker for his family, a daunting responsibility for a young man. However, amid the devastation, Malik found his strength and perseverance, qualities that defined him in his adulthood. His father’s death fostered a deep empathy in him, as he learned the pain of loss and the harshness of life’s realities. Yet, amid the despair, there were also moments of joy, such as when his youngest sister won a local academic competition, instilling a sense of hope and pride in Malik that helped him keep moving forward.

As he transitioned into adulthood, Malik was driven by a need to improve his family’s circumstances and create a safer environment for his loved ones. He worked tirelessly, often taking on multiple jobs, mirroring his father’s dedication. Despite the hardships, he pursued an education in political science at the American University of Beirut, hoping to enact positive change in his community. However, internal fears held him back – the fear of losing more loved ones, the fear of failure, and the haunting memories of his father’s tragic death. His primary objective became to pull his family out of poverty, protect them, and potentially even migrate to a safer country.

Significant events in Lebanon’s recent history have shaped Malik’s worldview. The 2006 Lebanon War and the 2019–20 Lebanese protests have instilled in him a sense of urgency for peace and social justice. These events have inspired him to use his education in political science to advocate for his community and work towards building a more secure Lebanon. Despite the systemic corruption and socio-economic issues plaguing his country, Malik believes in the power of unity and resilience, sentiments that have been tested but never broken among the Lebanese people.

Now, Malik is now a respected community leader and advocate in Beirut. He’s made considerable strides towards improving his family’s situation and has even been instrumental in implementing local community development programs. However, his journey is far from over. Haunted by his father’s untimely death, he is driven by a deep-seated need to reconcile with his past. He hopes to create a memorial in his community dedicated to those who lost their lives in the frequent bombings, including his father, turning his personal pain into a symbol of communal healing.

Malik is a reflection of the Lebanese spirit: resilient, hopeful, and relentless in the face of adversity. He stands as a testament to the enduring strength of humanity in the throes of tumultuous times, embodying his hero’s journey through his experiences and ongoing mission.