Dubai: New Initiative to Support the Lebanese People

Dubai: New Initiative to Support the Lebanese People

She raised funds by selling specially designed T-shirts, bags and masks during events held at community centres in Dubai. Beirut-born Rao is into the next phase of Je Suis Beyrouth (French for 'I'm Beirut') - a fundraising initiative launched in August following the deadly blasts in the Lebanon Capital. She raised funds by selling specially designed T-shirts, bags and masks during events held at community centres in Dubai. Together with Emirates Red Crescent (ERC), Lebanese Red Cross, Aid Lebanon Now, Liban TROC and Al Amal Institute for the Disabled in Lebanon, Rao has been able to provide food grains, sleeping bags and tablets to the needy in Lebanon. "I was very moved by the blasts. I sketched a motif on the lines of Je suis Charlie (French for 'I am Charlie'). My concept 'Je Suis Beyrouth' is themed on the Lebanon national flag. There is a flame on the top with words: 'Ana Bayrut' in Arabic to convey the message that Lebanese and Arab world can overcome any crisis," said Rao, who works with an investment company in Dubai. She designed merchandise with her unique logo and till date sold about 70 per cent of the stock with the proceeds