The Asfari Institute for Civil Society and Citizenship recently launched the “Stories Behind the Headlines” series, an open platform for original content curated by Tala Nassif and Charbel Chaaya. This initiative aims to explore the current polycrisis in Lebanon—war, displacement, and economic collapse—by amplifying the voices and lived experiences of those on the frontlines and within vulnerable communities.

We also recently opened a call for submissions from AUB students, inviting them to share their personal experiences and reflections on how the crises in Lebanon have affected them and those around them. In this spirit, we are excited to share some submissions that showcase the diverse narratives that highlight resilience, vulnerability, and the important role of community in navigating these challenging times. These stories serve as a powerful reminder of the human experiences behind the headlines, capturing the complexities of life amidst crisis.

One submission recounts a harrowing journey from Lebanon to Canada, where the graduate student reflects on their traumatic escape on foot after an Israeli rocket strike rendered their vehicle useless, highlighting the relentless fear and loss that accompanies such experiences. Loulwa El Hariri, a first-year undergraduate student, captures the duality of academic life amidst chaos, using her library experiences as a microcosm of Lebanese society, where moments of connection and community resilience stand out against the backdrop of turmoil.

Chu Zhang’s narrative follows Mohammad, who grapples with the emotional weight of evacuation, poignantly depicting the bittersweet nature of leaving friends and the painful act of packing memories into a suitcase. Meanwhile, Elise Choufany’s vivid imagery reflects on the cyclical nature of war and its impact on memory and identity, highlighting the struggle to hold onto cherished memories amid destruction and evoking a deep sense of longing.

Moreover, the series curators recorded a podcast episode featuring AUB student Nijad Kalash to discuss his initiative “Nez7in So What,” which aims to bring joy and self-expression to displaced children through engaging activities. Tune in to hear about the initiative’s impact and vision here.

Together, these stories resonate with the complexity of survival and the enduring search for solace in the face of adversity. We encourage more students to contribute their voices, documenting the ongoing challenges and responses within our society. If you are interested in contributing to the series, please read the guidelines and submit your article through this Google Form.