As I sit down to reflect on the year 2023 at DROSOS FOUNDATION, I am filled with mixed emotions and deep sadness. While I had hoped to share numerous stories of positive advancements and progress for the young people in the countries we work in, this year has presented exceptional challenges. These events have deeply affected us all. Despite these difficult times, I am immensely grateful and proud of our team and partners for their commitment.
Our foundation, with its longstanding presence in Switzerland, Germany, and across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, is adapted to navigating complex challenges. Yet, the unprecedented difficulties of 2023 have tested our resolve more than ever before. These challenges include the worsening economic crises in certain countries in the MENA region, the far-reaching consequences of the Russia-Ukraine war, and the devastating earthquake in Morocco. The escalation of the Israel-Palestine conflict since October 7th has led to a severe crisis, marked by the heartbreaking suffering of civilians. The tragic loss of lives, the dire circumstances of hostages, and the particularly devastating impact on children and youth have deeply shaken us at DROSOS.
We are profoundly disheartened by this scale of human tragedy. In Gaza, the turmoil experienced by our partners and the youth we support has been heart-wrenching. They’ve endured displacement, loss of team members, loved ones, and extreme hardship. Our team and partners in the West Bank also face escalating safety concerns. The conflict’s impact, disrupting activities and deeply affecting mental health across the region, has been profound. This setback undermines years of efforts to empower young people, impacting an already traumatized generation. Many of us chose a career in social change to make a difference, and it has been personally devastating to witness the continuation of such suffering and injustice despite our best efforts.
Despite the disheartening situation in the MENA region, 2023 has also witnessed uplifting and inspiring moments. The unwavering dedication of our team members, partners, and project participants has led to the flourishing of new initiatives and partnerships. Projects have evolved into stable entities, ideas have transformed into small enterprises, and training and skill development efforts have borne fruit. Most importantly, young people have pursued their aspirations with confidence, building on the support extended.
Throughout the year, I had the privilege of meeting and engaging with many of our partners and project participants. Observing young people develop confidence, articulate their thoughts, acquire new skills and lead initiatives, even amidst challenging circumstances, has been a source of motivation and profound inspiration for me. Our commitment to supporting young people and their communities to contribute and thrive in economic, social, and cultural life remains strong, and we will continuously adapt our support to meet emerging needs.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our team and our partners for their dedication to fostering a world of equity, where young people have the opportunity to realize their full potential and access equal opportunities. My thoughts and sympathy are with everyone suffering from any form of hardship, whether from conflict or other circumstances. While your situation may seem desperate, I genuinely believe and wish that humanity will prevail.
With my best wishes for a more hopeful and humane 2024,
Suba Umathevan
Chief Executive Officer of DROSOS FOUNDATION