The Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) has long been dedicated to preserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable livelihoods. A shining example of this commitment is Souk Al Hima, a unique shop initiative that merges environmental conservation with women’s empowerment and cultural heritage. This vibrant marketplace brings together artisans, nature enthusiasts, and conservationists to celebrate craftsmanship inspired by nature, ensuring a sustainable future for both people and wildlife.
Funded by BioConnect, this vibrant marketplace brings together artisans, nature enthusiasts, and conservationists to celebrate craftsmanship inspired by nature, ensuring a sustainable future for both people and wildlife.
Women’s Stories: Creativity Rooted in Nature
Layla: Resilience Through Art
Layla’s journey is one of perseverance and creativity. After enduring a serious illness that afflicted her son and battling cancer herself, she found solace and strength in art. Her needlework and craft, particularly in recycled glass, reflect a deep respect for Mother Nature. Layla’s intricate designs are a testament to her resilience and dedication to sustainability.
Rima: The Beauty in Nature’s Gifts
A housewife with a passion for natural materials, Rima transforms food, wood, and recycled glass into stunning works of art. With a love for painting, calligraphy, and drawing, her sole objective is to create beauty, proving that nature provides endless inspiration.
Fadia: Inspired by the Wild
Growing up in a remote village surrounded by untouched nature, Fadia found her muse in the landscapes and wildlife around her. Her knitwork, complemented by recycled glass and plastic designs, mirrors the rich colors and textures of her environment.
Joelle: A Legacy in Crochet
With 13 years of professional experience, Joelle rediscovered her creativity during COVID-19. Inspired by her mother’s embroidery, she took up crocheting using a treasured thick hook. Now, she crafts handbags and table sets, merging tradition with innovation.
Nourhan: A Passion for Crochet
Born in 1999, Nourhan discovered her love for crochet at a school for children with special needs. Encouraged by her mother, she honed her skills through self-research and dedication. Her journey showcases the transformative power of creativity and perseverance.
The Team Behind Souk Al Hima
Mrs. Soulaf Abdallah: A Leader for Women
As the President of Souk Al Ghareb Women Association, Mrs. Soulaf Abdallah is a beacon of empowerment. Her dedication to supporting women’s handcrafted products and celebrating nature through Souk Al Hima has fostered a thriving community of artisans.
Dr. Zeina Hitti: A Healer and Conservationist
A passionate physiotherapist and nature lover, Dr. Zeina Hitti is a cornerstone of Souk Al Hima. She works tirelessly to help women showcase their handcrafted items, ensuring their talents contribute to environmental and cultural sustainability.
Ms. Celine Feitrouni: Amplifying Voices Through Social Media
A social media expert with a love for animals and nature, Celine Feitrouni uses her platform to highlight Souk Al Hima’s talented women. Her creative strategies ensure that these artisans gain the recognition they deserve.
Nature’s Role in Souk Al Hima
Cedar Tree: A Symbol of Strength
The Cedar of Lebanon, a symbol of resilience and immortality, has stood the test of time for thousands of years. However, deforestation threatens its existence, making conservation efforts critical to preserving this national treasure.
Pine Tree: A Source of Life
With over 1,500 species worldwide, pine trees provide food, shelter, and cultural significance. Despite their importance, habitat destruction has put over 100 species at risk, emphasizing the need for sustainable forestry practices.
Egyptian Vulture: The Majestic Scavenger
This ancient vulture species plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. Unfortunately, habitat loss and illegal trade threaten its survival, making conservation efforts imperative.
Wolf: A Misunderstood Predator
Wolves are integral to maintaining healthy ecosystems, yet they face persecution and habitat loss. Protecting these creatures is essential for biodiversity conservation.
Short-Toed Snake Eagle: A Rare Predator
With fewer than 25,000 individuals left globally, this eagle’s survival is threatened by deforestation and habitat destruction. Conservation initiatives are necessary to ensure its continued existence.
Tortoise: A Slow but Endangered Species
Living up to 200 years, tortoises are vulnerable due to habitat loss and illegal trade. Awareness and conservation programs are crucial to their survival.
Fox: A Cunning Survivor
Foxes, adaptable and resourceful, face threats from habitat destruction. Their role in the ecosystem as both predators and scavengers makes their conservation essential.
Ladybug: A Guardian of Crops
With around 5,000 species, ladybugs are nature’s pest controllers. However, pesticide use threatens their populations, highlighting the importance of organic farming.
Ants: Nature’s Engineers
Ants play a vital role in ecosystems, but habitat destruction and pesticides endanger them. Their resilience and cooperation make them a crucial part of the natural world.
Dolphins: Intelligent Navigators
With 36 species worldwide, dolphins face threats from pollution and human activity. Protecting their marine habitats ensures their survival for future generations.
A Sustainable Future
Souk Al Hima is more than a marketplace—it is a movement that empowers women, celebrates cultural heritage, and safeguards nature. Through their art, women tell stories of resilience, creativity, and a profound respect for the environment. By supporting Souk Al Hima, we invest in a sustainable future where both people and nature thrive together.
About BioConnect
BioConnect is a collaborative project funded by the European Union, aiming to enhance biodiversity protection in Southern Lebanon. The initiative brings together four Lebanese partners—Al Shouf Cedar Society (ACS), Association for the Development of Rural Capacities (ADR), Association for Community and Environment (ACE), and the Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL)—to promote sustainable ecosystem management and community engagement.
#EUBioConnect4Lebanon
The European Union supports Lebanon’s stability, independence and sovereignty, its prosperity and democratic order. It strives also to help protect its environment and natural resources by supporting sustainable enterprise and development.
Find out more about the EU’s work in Lebanon or follow it on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram at @EUinLebanon
