Established in 2010 by a group of passionate Lebanese-Americans, the Back to Roots Summer Academy is a two-week immersion trip to Lebanon for young adults in the Lebanese diaspora
Participants delve into their heritage through excursions, meetings with civil society groups, and topical lectures on Lebanese history, society, economy, and more.
Back to Roots activities during the two weeks in Lebanon primarily include the following:
- Excursions to Lebanon’s most beautiful sites, including the epic Cedars of Lebanon, the mesmerizing Jeita Grotto, the ruins of Byblos and Baalbek, and more!
- Meetings with Lebanese NGOs, politicians, media institutions, and youth initiatives. These have included the President of Lebanon, numerous members of parliament, local human rights NGOs, and media outlets like MTV Lebanon and Annahar.
- Lectures that provide a comprehensive look at Lebanon, with topics like inter-religious dialogue in Lebanon, the Lebanese political system, youth and cyber-activism, oil and gas in Lebanon, and more.
But Back to Roots is more than just a jam-packed trip. It’s new friendships with people who feel like your long-lost siblings. It’s a renewed dedication to an ancient land. Our goal is to cultivate a fiery love for Lebanon in young Lebanese descendants, so that they become well-informed, passionate ambassadors for the Land of the Cedars.
The trip, outside of airfare, is completely free for participants. We want this amazing opportunity to be available to as many members of the Lebanese Diaspora as possible!
Back to Roots is uniquely designed and backed by the Lebanese Information Center, a non-profit organization based in Washington, D.C. that educates those seeking to learn about Lebanon and its people. With the LIC backing us, donations to Back to Roots are 100% tax deductible. We are proud to continue working with an institution that is so dedicated to Lebanon.
As you explore these pages, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.