Empowering Change and Innovation in Lebanon
Returning to Lebanon after graduating in May 2023, I embarked on my professional journey as a Product Development Manager. Leading a digital product development department, I spearheaded initiatives that significantly impacted our clients across more than ten countries, spanning various industries such as government, media, healthcare, hospitality, and technology. My team and I successfully launched a diverse array of digital products, including podcasts, workshops, courses, digital academies, speaking events, and online seminars.
Inspired by my experiences in the United States, I sought to bring a piece of that exchange to my local community. This led to the creation of my personal podcast, “Voices Beyond Borders.” The first season focused on international exchange between the United States and Lebanon, as well as Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and LGBTQIA+ empowerment. Featuring six episodes, the podcast explored themes of exchange, allyship, personal experiences, and the art of drag. I had the privilege of hosting guests such as representatives from Montana State University’s Office of International Programs, Fulbright Scholars, YES alums, the Country Director of AMIDEAST Lebanon, and LGBTQIA+ individuals from around the world. These conversations opened dialogues about cultural exchange and inclusivity, and you can find more about the podcast on YouTube and Instagram.
In September 2023, I was honored to join 20 exceptional youth on the Youth Advisory Committee to the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Lebanon. This role allowed me to contribute to policy and program creation benefiting Lebanese youth, serving as an advocate within the embassy’s initiatives. My involvement in various workshops and speaking events further solidified my commitment to fostering understanding and cultural exchange. Partnering with AMIDEAST, I conducted sessions on U.S. culture and DEI, sharing my Fulbright experiences and encouraging others to pursue similar opportunities.
Throughout this period, I worked as a freelancer, specializing in innovation and entrepreneurship coaching. My passion for fostering entrepreneurial ecosystems led me to transition to a full-time role as a Project Manager at SmartESA, the incubator and accelerator at ESA Business School. Here, I work closely with business professionals and entrepreneurs, helping them scale their startups and inspiring the next generation of changemakers.
One of the highlights of the past year was attending the 2024 State Alumni Reception at the Residence of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon at the U.S. Embassy in Awkar. This event was an incredible opportunity to connect with fellow exchange alumni, engage with the U.S Ambassador and discuss collaborative efforts to create impactful initiatives. Maintaining strong connections with the amazing friends and professional networks I established in the United States has been essential. These relationships have allowed us to create exciting plans for future collaborations and initiatives.
During this journey, I ave also taken the opportunity to reconnect with and fall back in love with Lebanon. Despite enduring many challenges, Lebanon continues to thrive with a heart full of love, determination, and resilience. This period has been a powerful reminder of the strength and beauty of my homeland.
I have ambitious plans for my time ahead. I aim to launch the second season of my podcast, with a continued focus on DEI and LGBTQIA+ empowerment. I also aim to feature more international guests and continue promoting the amazing opportunities the Fulbright Program has provided me and continues to offer. My journey affirms the profound impact of the Fulbright Program on individuals and their communities. Going forward, I will continue to foster innovation, inclusivity, and cultural exchange, making a difference in Lebanon and beyond.
The Fulbright experience is more than academic and professional advancement; it is about shaping a global identity, building bridges, and sparking meaningful change.
Fransisco is a 2022 Fulbright alum from Lebanon. He studied Innovation and Management at Montana State University.
