Success Stories
Creative Space Beirut’s unique combination of free education, community support, and commitment to positive change has proven to create a deep and long lasting impact on the lives of its beneficiaries, setting it apart as a transformative force in the world of design education. We measure our impact not just in numbers, but by the meaningful differences we make in people's lives.
CSB boasts a 94% job placement rate in the creative industry for its graduates, who have pursued advanced studies, taught at institutions like ALBA, LAU, and CSB, and launched successful brands. Some students and alumni have gone on to work under renowned designers such as Krikor Jabotian and Rym Beydoun (SUPERYAYA). The prestigious Fashion Trust Arabia Prize, ranging between USD100,000 - USD150,000, was awarded to alumni Roni Helou (2019), Amir Al Kasm (2023), and Ahmed Amer (2023), with 100% of CSB applicants nominated into the competition winning the prize.
Heba Nahle
Heba Nahle grew up in Beirut and pursued Interior Design at the Lebanese University, though her true passion had always been fashion. She was accepted into Creative Space Beirut, where she demonstrated natural talent, dedication, and leadership. As a student, she was personable, helpful, and eager to assist during events and collaborations. Heba graduated in 2016 with a stunning thesis collection and later received a scholarship to pursue a Master’s at the Polytechnic University of Milan (Politecnico di Milano) based on her portfolio built during her time at CSB. She completed her program with honors, and her thesis on formal protective attire for urban motorcyclists was selected as the best thesis of the year, winning the Giulia Minola Award.
She managed to secure a residency and is now based in Milan, having successfully integrated into the city’s renowned design industry. She started by doing research and design while following up on production and quality control for some projects, including work on the design and execution of artificial robot skin with the Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia. Heba is the founder of Riccitelli Milano, an agency for product development and production management based in Italy, collaborating with designers like Talia Byre.
Amir Al Kasm
Amir Al Kasm was admitted into the Creative Space Beirut school of design in 2018 at just 16, a Syrian refugee living in Akkar. Initially timid and reserved, Amir's inherent talent was unmistakable. During his tenure at CSB, he evolved significantly, shedding his reticence and demonstrating his dedication, hard work, and creativity.
The program became a sanctuary for Amir, where he would often stay late, engrossed in his projects. Thanks to the support, encouragement, and resources provided by CSB, Amir graduated as a confident and highly skilled designer. His capabilities and potential were recognized, leading to an internship with the esteemed designer Krikor Jabotian, which quickly transitioned into a full-time position.
Now, Amir enjoys a lucrative career, complete with legal documentation. His achievements culminated in 2023 when he was awarded the prestigious Fashion Trust Arabia Prize for the Eveningwear category, which offers 200,000 USD, a sales agreement with Harrods London, and mentorship from industry leaders for a year.
Amir also became an instructor at Creative Space Beirut this year, teaching a Corsetry and Couture course. Amir's journey from a shy newcomer to an acclaimed designer and mentor underscores the profound impact Creative Space Beirut has on its students' lives.
