Our volunteers
Our Team
Samer Barakat
Child Protection Specialist
Hassan Barakat
CEO-founder
Hani Youssef
Programs Manager
Yasmine Barrak
Treasurer
Salah barakat
External Representative (Germany)
Najwa Harba
GBV Manager
About Us — DAMMA Association
“DAMMA” is a non-profit association dedicated to empowering individuals and families through development and protection initiatives, inspired by its motto For development & protection. We implement awareness and community support programs, offer educational, health, and social activities that uphold human dignity and equal opportunities.
- Partnerships with experts and volunteers to expand positive impact.
- Sustainable projects prioritizing the needs of the local community.
- Transparent governance and accountability in institutional work.
Our Team
Hassan Barakat
CEO-Founder Executive
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Hassan Barakat is a dedicated community and humanitarian worker with extensive experience in psychosocial support, child protection, and community awareness. He holds academic qualifications in History, Education, and Music, and has engaged in diverse professional and volunteer roles across local and international NGOs, including UNHCR, IOM, Himaya, Oxfam, IRC, Sawa, and Médecins Sans Frontières.
Hassan has facilitated psychosocial support sessions for children, youth, and caregivers, delivered awareness programs on child rights and gender-based violence, and contributed to educational initiatives for both children and adults. His background also includes data collection, literacy training, health promotion, and community theatre activities.
He has completed a wide range of specialized trainings with organizations such as UNICEF, Red Cross, Handicap International, KAFA, and PLAN International, strengthening his skills in protection, humanitarian response, and capacity building.
As a member of Dhamma Association, Hassan contributes his knowledge and passion to supporting vulnerable communities, promoting dignity, and advancing sustainable humanitarian initiatives.
Hani Youssef
Programs Manager Programs
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Hani Youssef is the Programs Manager at Damma, leading the design and delivery of initiatives that protect children, expand access to education, and empower vulnerable communities in Lebanon. With over nine years of experience in humanitarian and development work, he has managed programs, built partnerships, and coordinated with UN agencies, INGOs, and local NGOs to create lasting impact.
Before joining Damma, Hani held leadership roles with international organizations including the International Rescue Committee, UNICEF, the American University of Beirut, UNHCR, and Himaya Association. He holds a Master’s degree in International Business and Finance from Hochschule Augsburg in Germany and a dual Bachelor’s degree in International Management/Business Administration. Fluent in Arabic and English, with proficiency in German, Hani brings both technical expertise and a passion for community-driven change to his work.
Najwa Harba
GBV Manager GBV
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Najwa Harba is a psychologist and humanitarian worker with extensive experience in psychotherapy, child protection, and psychosocial support. She holds a Master’s degree in Psychotherapy, a Postgraduate Diploma in Psychological Counselling, and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Damascus University. Over the years, Najwa has worked with leading international and local organizations, including Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), Women Now for Development, and Sawa Group, where she contributed to mental health support, emergency response, and community awareness initiatives.
Her professional journey includes roles as a university lecturer, case worker, facilitator, and volunteer, reflecting her dedication to education, advocacy, and psychosocial care for vulnerable groups. Skilled in counseling, facilitation, and training, she has delivered numerous awareness sessions, workshops, and interventions for children, youth, and caregivers.
As a Co-Founder of Dhamma Association, Najwa continues to dedicate her expertise and passion to advancing mental health, protection, and empowerment for vulnerable communities, ensuring lasting impact and sustainable change.
Samer Barakat
Child Protection Specialist Child Protection
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Samer Barakat is a dedicated humanitarian and community worker with over a decade of experience in psychosocial support, child protection, and community outreach. Throughout his career, he has collaborated with leading international and local NGOs, including SAWA Group, Himaya, IRC, Mercy Corps, Médecins Sans Frontières, and UNHCR, where he facilitated awareness sessions, delivered psychosocial support, and engaged with vulnerable children, youth, and families.
In addition to his field expertise, Samer is pursuing a Master’s degree in Social Sciences at the Lebanese University – Zahle, strengthening his ability to bridge academic knowledge with practical humanitarian action. His professional background reflects strong expertise in program implementation, case management, and community engagement, alongside extensive training in child protection, PSS, GBV, and emergency response. Known for his empathy and commitment, he has consistently worked to create safe, inclusive, and empowering environments for at-risk groups.
Ahmad Al-Taleb
Legal Advisor Legal
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Ahmad Al-Taleb is a Law student at Al-Baath University in Homs with over two years of practical experience in law and legal practice. He has developed strong skills in litigation, case preparation, and legal procedures, demonstrating professionalism and precision in his work. Committed to justice and social responsibility, he is an active member of Damma Association, contributing to initiatives that foster legal awareness and support vulnerable communities.
Yasmin Barak
Treasurer Finance
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Yasmin Barak is a Syrian pharmacist with a Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Chemistry from Al Baath University (2022) and over two years of professional pharmacy experience in Homs. She has a strong background in health awareness and community volunteering, where she developed solid skills in patient care, medicines management, and effective teamwork.
As a Co-Founder of Dhamma Association, Yasmin contributes her expertise in health and community well-being to support vulnerable groups and ensure the association’s programs deliver meaningful impact. Her combined experience in pharmacy and humanitarian engagement reflects a deep commitment to both professional excellence and social responsibility.
Hadil Bouzan
Secretary Secretary
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Hadil Bouzan is a community and humanitarian worker with diverse experience gained through her work with local and international organizations in humanitarian support, financial services, human resources, and quality control. She is skilled in teaching, communication, and languages, with fluency in Arabic, strong English, and knowledge of French. Hadil is also proficient in Microsoft Office and social media management.
As a founding member of Damma Association, she brings her expertise and passion to advancing solidarity, equality, and empowerment, while contributing to sustainable community development initiatives.
Salah Aldeen Al-Barkat
External Representative (Germany) External Rep
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Salah Aldeen Al-Barkat is a dedicated humanitarian professional with more than 10 years of experience in the humanitarian and development sector. Throughout his career, he has held both leadership and technical roles in local and international organizations, focusing on child protection, psychosocial support, and emergency response. He has served as Child Protection Manager at Sawa Group Association, volunteered with UNHCR in Lebanon, and coordinated relief and development projects with partners such as UNICEF and other NGOs. Salah has also trained practitioners in psychosocial support for youth and adolescents at the American University of Beirut and worked as a school director prior to the Syrian conflict.
He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Baath University, Syria, and has completed numerous trainings with governmental and non-governmental organizations. Fluent in Arabic and proficient in German, Salah combines technical expertise with strong intercultural communication, leadership, and strategic planning skills.
As a Co-Founder of Dhamma Association, he contributes his knowledge and field experience to advancing protection, empowerment, and sustainable community development.
Ruba Abdulmoula
Monitoring & Evaluation Officer M&E
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Ruba Abdulmoula is a committed educator and psychosocial support specialist with a strong background in working with children, youth, caregivers, and individuals with special needs. She holds a degree from the Institute of Teacher Preparation and a Bachelor’s in Economics with a focus on Small and Medium Enterprise Management.
Her professional experience includes delivering psychosocial support programs for children, adolescents, caregivers, and trainers, as well as providing interactive activities and mental arithmetic training for visually impaired and blind children. She has also led capacity-building initiatives to train caregivers and frontline supporters in psychosocial care and education.
Ruba has completed numerous specialized trainings, including TOT for frontline supporters in crises, child protection, case management, HR training, PSS for war survivors and detainees, and disability inclusion.
As a Co-Founder of Dhamma Association, she contributes her expertise and passion to advancing the organization’s mission of empowerment, inclusion, and sustainable support for vulnerable communities.
Ahmad Al Ibrahim
Educational Supervisor Education
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Ahmad Al Ibrahim is an educator and academic advisor with a strong background in teaching and educational guidance. He graduated from the Teacher Preparation Institute and holds a degree in Educational Guidance from Al-Baath University in Homs. With his expertise in pedagogy and curriculum support, Ahmad has contributed to developing effective teaching practices and supporting both students and educators in building strong educational foundations.
Passionate about empowering learners, he has experience in guiding children and youth, enhancing classroom engagement, and providing training for educators to strengthen their teaching and mentoring skills. Ahmad combines his academic knowledge with a commitment to fostering inclusive and supportive learning environments.
As a member of Dhamma Association, he extends his expertise beyond the classroom, contributing to the organization’s mission of empowering vulnerable communities through education, guidance, and sustainable development initiatives.
Linda Ammar
Founding Member Pharmacy
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Linda Ammar, a Pharmacy graduate from Al-Hawash University in Homs, combines her academic and professional expertise in the pharmaceutical field with a strong dedication to community engagement. With a solid background in pharmaceutical care and health awareness, she bridges scientific knowledge with people’s everyday needs. Her belief in the vital role of youth in driving positive change led her to co-found Damma Association, where she contributes to initiatives that integrate health and social empowerment, fostering a more aware and cohesive community.
Heba Al Munjed
Founding Member Pharmacy
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Heba Al Munjed is a Syrian pharmacist and chemist with a strong academic and professional background in healthcare, education, and community engagement. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy from Al-Hawash Private University and a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Chemistry from Al-Baath University.
Since 2019, Heba has been the owner of Qizhel Pharmacy, where she provides pharmaceutical care, supervises medical inventories, and manages a specialized beauty and dermatology department. Previously, she worked as a chemistry lecturer at Al-Baath University, teaching both theoretical and practical courses while mentoring students in laboratory work and scientific research.
Beyond her professional career, Heba is an active member of the Syrian Cancer Society and Junior Chamber International (JCI Homs), with multiple trainings in public speaking, negotiation, and e-marketing.
As a Co-Founder of Dhamma Association, Heba contributes her expertise in health, education, and community service to empower vulnerable groups and support sustainable humanitarian initiatives.
Safaa Al Ibrahim
Founding Member Founding
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Safaa Al Ibrahim is a history graduate from Al-Baath University in Homs with a strong interest in community service and social development. She began her humanitarian journey as a volunteer with Al-Birr Association in Homs, where she supported community-based initiatives and gained experience in assisting vulnerable groups. Through this work, Safaa developed valuable skills in teamwork, communication, and organizing activities that promote social cohesion.
Her academic background in history has strengthened her analytical and research skills, while her volunteer work has shaped her commitment to humanitarian values and the empowerment of marginalized communities. She is passionate about education, awareness-raising, and supporting initiatives that foster resilience and dignity.
As a member of Dhamma Association, Safaa contributes her dedication and skills to advancing the organization’s mission of protection, empowerment, and sustainable community development.
Nada Abdelbaki
Founding Member Founding
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Nada Abdelbaki is a humanitarian worker with a strong background in mental health, child protection, and community outreach. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in History from Damascus University and has worked with several leading organizations, including Doctors of the World (MDM), UN Women, Red Cross, Sawa Association, Intersos, ANERA, UNHCR, IRC, and ActionAid.
Her experience covers a wide range of humanitarian fields, from providing psychosocial support and awareness sessions on early marriage and reproductive health, to facilitating recreational and educational activities for children and families. Nada has also worked extensively on community support for refugees, awareness-raising, data collection, referrals, and capacity building for caregivers and outreach workers. She has participated in specialized trainings on child protection, TOT facilitation, life skills, and methods of scientific research and community leadership.
As a Co-Founder of Dhamma Association, Nada contributes her expertise and passion to advancing protection, empowerment, and sustainable support for vulnerable individuals and communities.