APJ

We warmly thank Michael Young, editor of Diwan, Carnegie Middle East Center, for his illuminating reflection, shared on X (Twitter) by the account "Tweets for Lebanon".

This wonderful piece resonates deeply with our values. By describing the museum's creation as an act of "presence" and hope, it highlights the cultural and social commitment that APJ strives to uphold in service to Lebanon.

"A House for Memory: Philippe Jabre and the Museum of Beit Chabab.

In Lebanon, where the state is often absent, it is private citizens, foundations, and local NGOs who step in to fill the void. Philippe Jabre (@PhilippeJabre) is one such figure. Known internationally for his work in finance, Jabre has in recent years reengaged with Lebanon with a combination of thoughtfulness and determination.

Through his foundation, @APJLebanon, he has supported education, medical care, and social initiatives. In December 2021, he acquired majority ownership of Brasserie Almaza, Lebanon’s leading beer producer, which had been under foreign control since 2003—bringing it back into Lebanese hands.

But perhaps his most significant contribution has been the creation of a space that houses a unique collection of artworks showing not only how the country once looked, but how it was once seen.

In his native Beit Chabab, Jabre has transformed his family’s summer residence into a museum. At the heart of this endeavor is Gaby Daher—an art expert and the curator and conservator of the collection since 1989. Together, Jabre and Daher have built a space that reflects the country through early travel posters, sepia-toned photographs, delicate watercolors, and paintings by a diverse range of artists and travelers—mainly Orientalist painters, alongside Lebanese and international artists—who have depicted its landscapes, people, and spirit. This is not a museum in the traditional sense, but something more intimate—and more ambitious: a house of memory.

If you are in Lebanon, make time to visit this rare place in Beit Chabab. While the museum is not yet regularly open to the public, you can follow the Philippe Jabre Art Collection on Instagram and Facebook to stay informed about special events and openings. And if you cannot make the journey, a selection of travel posters from Jabre’s collection is currently on view at the Al-Said Pavilion of the National Museum of Beirut—another beautiful, polychromatic window into Lebanon’s past.

In a country too often described through deficiencies—in leadership, policy, and continuity—Jabre’s endeavor represents, on the contrary, a form of presence, a personal affirmation of hope. It is a reminder that even when the center falters, the margins can still hold light."

Tweet source: https://x.com/mireille961/status/1973744796133978181

APJ celebrates 25 years at AUB

On 12 August 2025, the Association Philippe Jabre (APJ) marked its 25th anniversary with a special event at the American University of Beirut (AUB). Founded in 2001, APJ has supported young generations in Lebanon for a quarter of a century through university scholarships, medical and social assistance, and partnerships with educational institutions. More than 2,900 university scholarships have been awarded and nearly 9,000 socio-medical cases supported since its creation.

To celebrate this milestone, Philippe Jabre met with AUB students for an open conversation about their studies, their future, and the opportunities ahead. He was joined by Patrick George, Global Head of Markets & Securities Services at HSBC London, who shared his perspective on the evolving job market, the vital role of education, and preparing the next generation.

The dialogue closed with a simple and powerful reminder from Philippe Jabre: “Be open-minded, enjoy this big chance you have to study, and to be taught by very qualified teachers.” A message that captures the spirit of APJ’s enduring commitment to education and youth empowerment. 

Education lies at the heart of every society. In Lebanon, a country weakened by successive crises, providing young people with the opportunity to pursue their studies has become both a major challenge and an urgent necessity for building a brighter future.

It is with this conviction that the Association Philippe Jabre (APJ) and ALAM Suisse have joined forces. Their partnership is built on a shared belief: sustainable development is impossible without guaranteeing the next generation access to quality education.

A Shared Mission

For 25 years, APJ has been dedicated to supporting students, particularly those pursuing master’s degrees—often overlooked by traditional financial aid programs. “Education is the key to everything,” emphasizes APJ’s manager, Joumana Sabbagh. Philippe Jabre also insists on the importance of going beyond dreams: “Having a dream is not enough. You need to have a vision of what you want to become in 3, 5, or 10 years. Education makes that possible.”

ALAM Suisse carries the same commitment. As its Lebanon representative Gabriel Sawaya explains: “A better future in Lebanon cannot be achieved without improving access to education for our youth.” The association has always relied on transparent and solid partnerships with trusted local organizations to ensure real and lasting impact.

Amplifying Impact

The collaboration between ALAM Suisse and APJ significantly strengthens the support offered to Lebanese students by expanding access to scholarships and academic resources. Together, the two associations are building bridges between the diaspora, international donors, and Lebanon’s youth.