Our Model of Support
The Meaning of Waseela (وسيلة)
Waseela (وسيلة) in Arabic is used in everyday language to indicate any means or channel through which something is accomplished or achieved. At Waseela Relief Association, we embody this concept as a catalyst for positive change. Waseela, to us, is the vital connection that bridges compassion to action. We understand that it’s not just about providing a temporary fix but creating sustainable change.
Purpose: Creating Pathways to Lasting Opportunity
At Waseela, we see our work as an act of solidarity – not charity. Our approach is grounded in dignity, compassion, and respect for the people we support. We listen to their goals and circumstances and work with them to create opportunities that can lead to greater independence and financial security.
We pursue this purpose through two pathways:
- Education and scholarships that help students gain the knowledge and skills needed to pursue employment and build more secure futures.
- Livelihood projects that help individuals and families establish or strengthen a reliable source of income.
As Waseela grows, we are placing greater emphasis on education and developing a structured scholarship program. We will also continue to support selected livelihood projects when income-generating assistance offers the most appropriate pathway toward stability.
Both pathways reflect the same belief: everyone deserves a meaningful opportunity to move forward with dignity.
Education and Scholarships
For many students in Yemen, the barrier is not a lack of ability or ambition. Relatively modest costs – such as tuition, transportation, books, or required equipment – can be enough to put education out of reach.
We know personally how access to a scholarship can open doors. Waseela’s founders benefited from scholarships themselves, and that experience helped shape our belief in education as a pathway to employment, financial security, and wider opportunity.
Waseela is now placing greater focus on education, beginning with university scholarships and expanding into vocational training and English-language education where these support a student’s academic or employment goals.
Our support may include:
- Tuition and registration fees.
- Transportation, books, supplies, and required equipment.
- Ongoing follow-up as students progress through their studies.
We prioritize capable and committed students whose education is at risk because of financial barriers, while considering their circumstances, chosen program, and future goals.
Our 2026 Goal: Support at least six university students in Aden and Taiz.
As we build this program, we will also explore vocational and English-language opportunities that offer a clear pathway to further education or employment.
Livelihood Projects
Livelihood projects have been central to Waseela’s work since our founding and remain an important part of our model.
Family-Led, Tailored Support
No two families have the same circumstances, abilities, or goals, and our support reflects that. Rather than prescribing a standard solution, we listen to the individual or family’s ideas and work with them to shape a project around what they believe can help them build a more reliable source of income.
Together with our local volunteers, we assess the proposed project, consider potential barriers, and determine what support could give it the strongest chance of succeeding.
Depending on the project, support may include:
- Start-up funding for an income-generating idea proposed by the individual or family.
- Essential equipment or materials.
- Skills training, where needed.
- Temporary assistance with essential needs while the project becomes established.
- Ongoing follow-up to monitor progress, respond to challenges, and celebrate milestones.
Families understand their own circumstances best. Waseela’s role is to listen, provide practical support, and help turn a promising idea into a pathway toward greater stability.
Volunteer-Driven, Community-Supported
Waseela is primarily powered by volunteers, with support from a part-time field representative in Aden who helps coordinate and monitor our local activities. This structure allows us to maintain strong local oversight while keeping administrative costs low and directing more resources toward our programs.
Our work is made possible by donors, volunteers, local representatives, and community members who share our belief that education and sustainable livelihoods can create lasting change.
Our Values
