In Al Zarqa, Jordan, where many families face rising living costs and limited employment opportunities, livelihood support programs are creating new pathways to stability. Through vocational training, young people, especially graduates, are gaining practical, market-relevant skills that help them transition from education into sustainable work.
For Sadeel, an Artificial Intelligence graduate, this opportunity became a turning point.
Sadeel lives with her family of eight in a small apartment. Her father works long hours as the sole provider, covering essential needs, while her mother cares for the household. Despite financial hardship and limited space, Sadeel remained focused on one goal: supporting her family and building a more secure future.
Her determination led her to earn a bachelor's degree in Artificial Intelligence. However, like many graduates in Jordan, she faced a common challenge: a gap between academic knowledge and practical job market skills.
Before joining Zakat Foundation of America’s vocational training program, Sadeel struggled to find employment. Without hands-on experience or technical expertise aligned with employer needs, opportunities were limited. This left her feeling uncertain about her future and unsure how to move forward.
Motivated by her passion for creativity and her desire for financial independence, Sadeel enrolled in our Graphic Design Vocational Training Program in Amman. After over 66 hours of intensive training, she developed practical skills in design, branding, and digital tools, including social media management.
The training not only strengthened her technical abilities but also helped her understand how to apply these skills in real-world settings. With support from instructors and peers, she began to believe she could compete in the job market and create her own opportunities.
Using her new skills, Sadeel launched an online graphic design page, offering services such as advertisement design, wedding invitations, and newborn announcements. This marked her first step into freelance work and income generation through digital skills.
Her family quickly felt the difference. Her mother expressed joy at seeing her daughter regain confidence and motivation, while her father shared hope that these new skills would translate into a steady income and improved living conditions. Through one individual’s progress, the entire household began to experience renewed optimism.
Reflecting on her journey, she shares: “This course gave me more than I expected; it gave me hope.”
Sadeel’s story is a powerful example of how skills training in Jordan can transform lives. When young people are equipped with the right tools and opportunities, they can move from uncertainty to independence, creating lasting change for themselves and their families.
