Through its "Haith Al-Insan" program in its seventh season, Tawakkol Karman Foundation has helped a displaced man in Al-Ghaydah, in the governorate of Al-Mahra, realize his long-held dream of owning his own business.
Mahmoud Ismail was forced to flee with his family—including his three children, one of whom has autism—from Al-Jarrahi district in Al-Hudaydah, leaving behind everything except his comb and hair-cutting machine. Seeking a fresh start, he settled with his family in Al-Ghaydah, determined to rebuild his life with the few tools he had.
Moving from one barbershop to another, Mahmoud worked tirelessly to make his clients look their best. No matter the time, he never turned anyone away. Despite the hardships he endured, he poured his efforts into perfecting stylish haircuts while privately struggling with the weight of his family’s challenges.
"My daughter constantly vomits blood, and my eldest son has autism. I have spent so much on his treatment, even borrowing large sums from friends and others to try to help him, but with no success," Mahmoud shared.
He added, "Working in other people’s shops wasn’t enough to support my family. Whatever I earned, I had to split with the shop owner. But if I had my own barbershop, I could cover my family’s needs and improve our situation."
Mahmoud’s greatest wish was to own a barbershop, which would allow him to continue his son’s treatment and provide for his family’s basic needs.
Recognizing his determination, the "Haith Al-Insan" program stepped in to make his dream a reality. The program provided him with a fully equipped barbershop, fitted with the latest tools and appliances available in Al-Ghaydah, transforming it into one of the best salons in the city—far beyond what he had ever worked in before.
Expressing his deep gratitude to Tawakkol Karman Foundation, Mahmoud said his joy was beyond words. "Now that I have my own business, I can secure a better future for myself and my family," he said, celebrating the new beginning made possible through this support.
