Leila Amad Bissat

After a long stay abroad due to the raging civil war, Leila Amad Bissat returned to Lebanon with her family and decided to participate in the country’s reconstruction project. Having lived in Europe for some time, she was exposed to the cultural and educational developments there, which broadened her vision and inspired her work. At the time, her two children were still young, and through them, she further explored these fields.

Back home, her contribution took shape in the establishment of a children’s bookstore and educational center, Arche de Noé, where young readers could access books and take part in activities that opened their eyes to the world. She organized exhibits on topics such as the environment, history, art, and science, designed especially for children, encouraging them to look at their country with a renewed sense of vision and belonging.

Her work at the bookstore was rooted in the principles of teaching respect, diversity, and loyalty to both country and society—believing that starting with the young could help influence the older generations and prevent future crises in Lebanon. The bookstore operated for 18 years, leaving behind a lasting legacy and cherished memories, even after its closure in 2014.