by Dario Salvi

It was launched by educator and activist Jina Achji, who wanted to “offer a space” capable of bringing together and uniting “all communities”. The idea took its first steps in Aleppo in 2012 and has now spread to Hama and Homs. The invitation is to live ‘the present and reality’ by putting aside the ‘lost dream [...] for an imaginary land’.

Milan (AsiaNews) – “An educational and psychological initiative born amidst the turmoil of Syria’s conflict” is how Christian educator and activist Jina Achji describes her project, Espace du Ciel. Syria remains a country scarred by violence, sectarian tensions, and persecution of minorities, including Christians. In this context, Achji sought to create “a space” that could bring together and unite “all communities”.

Speaking to AsiaNews, she explained that Espace du Ciel has been active for over a decade, aiming to “rediscover and strengthen relationships between people” by moving beyond prejudice and the toxic thoughts that damage human connections. The civil war has deepened these divisions, turning religion and ethnicity into tools of exclusion and destruction.

The project began in 2012, as the situation in Aleppo deteriorated. Since then, it has expanded to other cities such as Hama and, more recently, Homs. Achji notes that “this method has proven its effectiveness over 14 years, offering a model for inner transformation that fosters tolerance and acceptance of others’ differences.”

Espace du Ciel

Achji explains that the initiative is built on pedagogical and psychological programmes designed to help individuals open up to themselves and others, breaking down barriers of faith and ethnicity.

Now 32, Achji had long been passionate about travel, but the outbreak of Syria’s civil war forced her to abandon her career as a tour guide. In 2012, she founded the Foshet Sama – Espace du Ciel centre in Aleppo, bringing together young Muslims and Christians to help them recover from the trauma of war and the devastating 2023 earthquake. The centre was created to offer education and hope to Syria’s younger generations, drawing on the pedagogical and spiritual guidance developed at Saint Joseph University in Beirut. The initiative supports children, young mothers, displaced people, and those without access to education.

Launched in parallel with the Syrian conflict that began in spring 2011, the project aimed to unite young people from different communities through an educational, psychological, and social centre that could counteract the fragmentation of society. Over time, it has become a model of coexistence, offering support to hundreds. From 75 students in its first year, the project now reaches over 900 people across six centres—five in Aleppo and one in Hama. Its goal is to build bonds and nurture a generation that can uphold the values of peace and resilience.

Since 2016, Foshet Sama has received support from the Christian NGO L’Œuvre d’Orient, and works in collaboration with the Maronite and Latin Churches in the Middle East, affirming the role of Christian values and faith in its development. Among its latest initiatives is a training programme focused on emotional intelligence and empowering women, helping restore their dignity and confidence.

A Growing Project

The project has expanded in Aleppo, Hama, and Homs, but much remains to be done to meet local needs and promote genuine integration. “Each city is very different,” Achji explains. “Hama is conservative but welcoming. Aleppo is a large, diverse city that adapts quickly. Homs is simple and open to new ideas.”

Reflecting on her mission, she adds: “Anywhere in my homeland, I feel I can work and build relationships because I love this land and the unique spirit of Syrians. If they were given the chance to grow up in healthy conditions, they could unleash their creativity.”

She warns that the past years have been anything but easy: “I always ask myself—if someone had the chance to grow up in a balanced and nurturing environment, why would they become a criminal?”

This question speaks to the reality of Syrians today, who continue to suffer under war, poverty, sanctions, jihadist violence, sectarianism, and instability—even after the fall of Bashar al-Assad. Achji hopes the centre can reach more Syrians who need a safe, tolerant space to grow. She notes that the need is growing as discrimination and religious divisions deepen. The support of organisations like L’Œuvre d’Orient and Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) has been vital in sustaining the project.

Faith

Faith has played a central role in launching and sustaining this complex initiative. “I started this project from my Christian identity and my belief in humanity, which Christianity encourages us to discover,” Achji says. She speaks of a search for “a new dimension” in every human being, regardless of religion.

Her faith in Jesus, trust in the Virgin Mary, and commitment to the Church have helped her face many challenges. “Every year has brought new trials and suffering, but at the heart of it all, life continues and begins to flourish,” she says.

The 2023 earthquake was another stark reminder of the fragile balance between life and death in Syria. Yet even in the midst of devastation, the project has helped people find hope.

Espace du Ciel has also fostered encounters between people from different social backgrounds. Students have benefited from sharing space with professionals like doctors and engineers, and those who once harboured hatred have found understanding and healing.

Looking ahead, Achji acknowledges the uncertainty facing Christians and all Syrians in a region still plagued by division and conflict. “The future depends on our attitude and effectiveness,” she says. “No one can dictate how we live if we are aware of our presence on this earth. We must live in the present, not chase imaginary dreams that only lead to regret. When we have the chance to travel, we should be free to choose—not bound by someone else’s dream.”

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