When challenges turn into opportunities, and problems transform into projects: YEPISODE youth ignite the spark of change.

In an inspiring and energetic atmosphere, the halls of the Continuing Education Center became a stage where stories of hope and entrepreneurship came to life. Participants in the YEPISODE program—“Enhancing Social and Digital Entrepreneurship in Palestine”—stood before a panel of expert judges and investors, presenting their projects not merely as ideas on paper, but as vibrant initiatives ready to make an impact.

The competition, modeled after the popular “Shark Tank” format, marked more than just the culmination of an intensive months-long training journey. Participants had acquired essential entrepreneurial skills, from idea generation to scaling and sustainability. What made this event exceptional was that every project carried a distinct Palestinian story: a young man determined to empower Palestinians with flexible and secure freelance work opportunities; a young woman who envisioned a center combining psychological relief and recreation; and a team promoting recycling as a sustainable, healthy lifestyle.

The esteemed judging panel, comprised of leading experts and entrepreneurs, expressed admiration for the diversity of solutions and the deep social understanding demonstrated by the participants. While opinions varied, the judges unanimously agreed: all these projects are valuable and deserve real opportunities to thrive.

The presentations were divided into two sessions—one focusing on environmental projects, and the other addressing education, employment, culture, and mental health—highlighting ideas that sparked discussion and inspired the audience.

YEPISODE was never just a training program; it was a living laboratory for ideas, a safe space for experimentation, and a platform for big dreams amidst challenging realities. The event drew strong participation from the entrepreneurship ecosystem, including supporting institutions, accelerators, and private sector partners. Their involvement went beyond attendance—they offered tangible support in the form of advice, coaching, workspace, consultations, and promising investment intentions.

Following the presentations, participants graduated and received certificates of completion. The ceremony opened with a heartfelt speech by Dr. Osama Al-Mimi, Director of the Continuing Education Center, who welcomed the audience and praised their role in supporting youth and providing opportunities in this vital sector. He emphasized the importance of programs like YEPISODE in fostering social entrepreneurship at a time when Palestinians are called to innovate and think collectively, quoting the poet Mahmoud Darwish: “Think of others.”

Dr. Al-Mimi thanked the participants, noting that the day’s success was unique because of their presence and creativity. “Today, you proved that Palestinian youth can defy the notion that creativity dies under pressure. On the contrary, true innovation is born in adversity.”

Ms. Kristeta, Project Manager of the Mediterranean Universities Union (UNIMED), joined remotely with a recorded message praising the program team and congratulating the participants and the Continuing Education Center. She expressed pride in the achievement despite difficult circumstances, saying she felt “present with us in spirit, despite the distance.”

Mr. Muhannad Slaous, Head of Financial Inclusion at the Palestinian Monetary Authority, expressed pride in the talented minds and projects, affirmed their commitment to supporting Palestinian youth, and praised their innovative ideas. He declared full readiness to continue collaboration and support future initiatives.

The opening remarks concluded with a speech by Mr. Nidal Oweidat, representing the program’s trainers and mentors. He expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to this inspiring educational experience. He thanked the organizers and participants who “proved that social entrepreneurship is not a distant dream but a feasible and crucial choice, even amid the difficult circumstances our people face.” He stressed that what we witnessed was not an end but the start of a real journey, adding: “Not winning today doesn’t mean failure; real success is built on experience, learning, and perseverance.”

Five Projects, Three Awards, and Countless Achievements

Five projects reached the final stage and secured the top three prizes, but everyone emerged a winner—enriched by experience, boosted in confidence, and supported by judges and attendees alike.

• First Prize
  Presented by Housing Bank and valued at $2,000, awarded to “Seen”—a youth network developing playful educational and training tools tailored to Palestinian and Arab culture and environment through learning-by-playing methods.

• Second Prize
  Consisted of a laptop and a paid training opportunity, jointly supported by the Palestinian Monetary Authority and the Environmental Organizations Network (PENGON). Awarded to “Bee’ei” (Environmental)—a water station providing free clean drinking water in public spaces to reduce reliance on single-use plastic bottles. The station includes a digital screen to display environmental and social awareness content as part of corporate social responsibility.

• Third Prize
  Shared among three projects, each receiving a training opportunity from PENGON or a laptop from the Palestinian Monetary Authority:

• “Industry Space” — a platform connecting manufacturing experts, environmental solutions, and green economy transformation for a smarter, sustainable future.

• “Taif” — empowering individuals with autism through innovative interactive technology to teach essential skills and open new learning horizons.

• “Faseeh” — teaching the visually impaired arts of performance and poetry through a smart educational app featuring voice assistance.

At the close of the day, the question was no longer: “Who won?” but rather:

“Where will these young innovators take us next?”

All left the hall carrying more than certificates or awards—they carried a burning passion, a clear vision, and a sense that they are not on the sidelines, but at the heart of change.

The competition was a spark—now the real fire is igniting in their ideas, streets, and upcoming projects.

Who said entrepreneurship is born only in a resource-rich oasis? YEPISODE youth prove that when will meets knowledge, real change happens. And the best is yet to come.