The West Bank city of Jenin has long been plagued by violence and destruction, creating significant challenges for its residents. However, amidst these difficult circumstances, the University of Notre Dame’s Meyer Business on the Frontlines Program is making a positive impact in the community. The program works closely with Palestinian women artisans, providing them with the tools and support necessary to create economic opportunities for themselves and their families.

Through the Frontlines courses offered to Notre Dame MBA students, they gain firsthand experience working in the West Bank and with communities around the world that have faced violence, poverty, and prejudice. This unique educational approach allows students to develop a deep understanding of the challenges faced by marginalized communities globally.

For the past six years, the Frontlines program, housed within the Mendoza College of Business, has partnered with the nonprofit social enterprise Child’s Cup Full (CCF). CCF focuses on empowering talented refugee and low-income artisans in the West Bank through its two brands, Darzah (women’s ethical fashion accessories) and Zeki Learning (children’s educational toys).

Darzah and Zeki Learning currently employ approximately 40 Palestinian women as full-time and part-time artisans, including Rasha, whose family has been living in Jenin Camp for 75 years. However, the recent Israeli military operation in the city had severe consequences for these artisans. Rasha’s home was destroyed, and the family members of three other artisans were injured and displaced from their homes. Additionally, the destruction of roads made it challenging for these artisans to access neighboring towns where they source their raw materials, further exacerbating their struggles.

In response to the crisis, CCF and Frontlines intensified their collaboration and support. CCF established safe havens for the affected artisans and their families within its center and local churches in Zababdeh, a town located approximately 6 miles from Jenin Camp. However, communication became a significant challenge as the attack disrupted the lines of communication. It took CCF two days to reach Rasha and confirm her safety, highlighting the necessity of improved communication infrastructure in the region.

Recognizing the importance of safety and security for their students, faculty, and staff, Notre Dame’s Business on the Frontlines MBA course collaborated closely with the university’s safety and security teams. In 2022, the program sent a team, including three graduate students and two alumni, to the West Bank. During their visit, the team had the opportunity to stay with Rasha’s family, who warmly welcomed them and provided valuable insights into the local community and its challenges.

Kelly Rubey, an assistant teaching professor for the Business on the Frontlines MBA course, emphasized the significance of the work done by CCF and the impact it has on the artisans. By providing them with employment opportunities, CCF offers the artisans a sense of purpose and a platform to share their culture and skills. Rubey acknowledges the dignity and empowerment that come from meaningful work and believes that the artisans’ contributions should be recognized and appreciated.

Furthermore, the complexities of operating a business in the midst of ongoing violence in the West Bank have prompted students to recommend the establishment of a working advisory board for CCF several years ago. This board aims to increase sales and create more opportunities for the artisans. Notre Dame alumni were among the first contributors to this initiative, demonstrating their commitment to supporting economic development in conflict-affected regions. Recently, a new employee was hired to lead these efforts, ensuring sustained growth and expanded impact.

Now in its 16th year, the Meyer Business on the Frontlines Program tackles critical global issues such as post-conflict rehabilitation, poverty, illicit economies, isolation, and prejudice. Through a three-pronged approach that combines business acumen, academic rigor, and a belief in the dignity of work, Notre Dame MBA students and faculty have undertaken over 90 projects across 35 countries. By partnering with international humanitarian organizations, local NGOs, Fortune 500 companies, and religious organizations, the program focuses on finding sustainable local solutions that create jobs and foster economic growth. As a result of these collaborations, thousands of individuals have gained sustainable livelihoods.

The recent attack on Jenin has only further motivated the Frontlines program and CCF to continue their work in the West Bank. It serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing oppression and limited economic opportunities faced by Palestinians in the region. However, through their collective efforts, they strive to create new employment opportunities and empower local communities.

To learn more about the partnership between Business on the Frontlines and Child’s Cup Full, visit their website. Additionally, you can watch the inspiring documentary titled “Fighting to Rebuild Communities,” which features the work of the Frontlines program.