Beirut, Lebanon – 06 July 2026: LIFE hosted its 5th annual Graduation Ceremony at Beirut Digital District (BDD), bringing together 2026 LIFE Scholar graduates, academic partners in Lebanon, employer partners, and LIFE members from the Beirut Chapter to celebrate a new generation of Lebanese talent.
Held under the theme “A Moment to Celebrate. A Community for LIFE,” the evening marked an important milestone in the LIFE Scholars journey. More than a graduation ceremony, it celebrated their transition from beneficiaries of LIFE’s Education Programme to lifelong members of a global community of professionals, mentors, and members.
The ceremony featured remarks by David Syriani, Chair of the LIFE Board, the screening of LIFE’s corporate video, a LIFE testimonial by Sandrine Sleiman, USJ scholar graduate and a presentation by Ramzi Assi, Beirut Chapter Chair and Lara Koro, Executive Director of Nurture, on LIFE membership and the opportunities available to scholars as they become part of the wider LIFE Community.
The event also marked a significant year for LIFE’s Nurture Pillar and its Education Programme. Through the programme, scholars receive support that extends well beyond tuition support. LIFE accompanies students throughout their academic journey by providing access to mentorship career guidance, professional exposure through the LIFE Academy, and networking opportunities.
By connecting scholars with experienced professionals, LIFE helps students build the skills, confidence, and relationships needed to transition from university into the workforce. This reflects LIFE’s belief that education is not only about academic achievement, but also about opening doors and creating opportunities for young Lebanese talent.
“Through mentorship, career guidance, professional development opportunities, and access to LIFE’s global network of leaders and alumni, we strive to equip them with the skills, confidence, and connections they need to realize their full potential. We celebrate their achievements today and look forward to seeing the remarkable contributions they will make in the years ahead,” said Lara Koro.
This year, LIFE celebrates the graduation of 166 LIFE Scholars, including 121 scholars studying at partner universities in Lebanon. At the same time, LIFE received its highest number of scholarship applications to date in 2026, reaching nearly 1,500 applications, compared to 1,200 the previous year. This increase reflects the growing need for educational support among Lebanese students and the continued trust in LIFE’s role in connecting talent with opportunity.
The year was also marked several major fundraising milestones in support of the LIFE Education Programme. LIFE’s New York Benefit Dinner raised $1 million, while the Paris Benefit Dinner raised €185,000, further strengthening the organization’s ability to support its scholars and its Education Programme.
A major milestone for LIFE was the establishment of LIFE’s Endowment Fund. At the LIFE New York Benefit Dinner, LIFE announced a transformational gift from Sandra and Tony Tamer and the Tamer Family Impact Fund: The Tamer Endowment for LIFE, launched at $10 million and dedicated entirely to education. This landmark contribution will help secure long-term support for future generations of Lebanese students and reinforce LIFE’s commitment to education as a driver of opportunity and impact.
For graduates, the ceremony served as both a celebration and a beginning. As LIFE Scholars complete their academic journey, they are invited to remain actively engaged to with LIFE through its global network built on mentorship, professional support, and a shared commitment to Lebanon and the Lebanese community worldwide.
As the organization looks ahead, LIFE remains committed to expanding its impact and ensuring that more Lebanese students are given the opportunity to learn, grow, and become part of a community for LIFE.