Nestled in the heart of Mount Lebanon, where the cedars whisper ancient secrets and the valleys hum with the melodies of birds, lies Hammana—a town that pulses with history, culture, and an unbreakable bond with nature. Among its winding streets and towering cliffs walks Chadi Saad, a storyteller whose voice carries the echoes of generations past and the dreams of those yet to come.
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) recognizes his efforts in environmental sustainability and sustainable forest management.
Chadi Saad is more than just a storyteller; he is a guardian of narratives, a keeper of heritage, and a voice for the voiceless. A proud member of the Hammana Artist House, Chadi has spent years weaving tales that breathe life into Lebanon’s folklore, history, and environmental heritage. Whether performing in intimate gatherings beneath the shade of an ancient oak or captivating audiences in grand halls, his stories transcend mere words—they transport listeners to forgotten times and uncharted places.
But storytelling is not his only gift to Hammana. Chadi also serves as the manager of SPNL’s Hima Hammana Raptor Observatory, where he merges his passion for storytelling with his deep commitment to conservation. In the golden light of dawn, he can be found on the rugged cliffs of Hammana, scanning the skies for the majestic raptors that pass through Lebanon’s migration corridors. Under his guidance, the Hima Hammana Raptor Observatory has become a sanctuary for birds of prey and a hub for environmental education.
With the keen eyes of an observer and the heart of a poet, Chadi transforms science into legend and conservation into a tale worth telling. He teaches young and old alike the significance of the raptors that soar overhead—their struggles, their journeys, and their place in Lebanon’s delicate ecosystem. His words inspire action, reminding his community that nature’s story is also their own.
Chadi blends art and activism, ensuring that the traditions of oral storytelling remain alive while addressing modern challenges. He collaborates with musicians, actors, and conservationists, using performance as a tool for change. His stories touch on themes of migration, resilience, and coexistence, resonating deeply with a people who have long understood the value of perseverance.
On any given evening, if one listens carefully amidst the rustling leaves and the distant cries of an eagle, Chadi’s voice can be heard, carrying the past into the future. Through his words, Hammana’s history remains vivid, its skies protected, and its stories never forgotten.
