Hatem was once a skilled painter, specialising in decorating. Following a war injury, he was no longer able to work until he heard about RestarT.
From one day to the next, Hatem was no longer able to support his family, and all the experience and skills that many people recognised in him seemed to be wasted. This resulted in a long period of psychological and financial difficulties for him.
Meeting RestarT, Restarting to Remain was fundamental in supporting his paint shop project. The programme enabled him to enrich his shop with new products (paints, brushes, rollers and many other things needed for painting).
By paying frequent visits to see how the work was going, the RestartT team noted that this project was a key turning point for the artist: “We have always admired Hatem’s determination to work, despite the impediments caused by his injuries. He was able to run a full workshop and produce creative work. He has now been able to renew his merchandise several times, his sales rate has increased significantly, and his work has flourished during this period which has made him the breadwinner again and also improved his mental health”.
Supporting the resumption of income-generating activities in a difficult setting like Syria means restoring confidence and hope in rebuilding a country still ravaged by war and more importantly helping local communities to regain the strength to look to the future.
As his commitment to reciprocity Hatem wants to help anyone who is unable to buy the materials they need for restoration or maintenance (paint or plaster) and help them apply the products.