Syrian Family Returns to Damascus to Open Climbing Gym

Following the fall of the al‑Assad regime in December 2024, Yasseen Tasabehji and his family, who had lived in Mississauga, Canada since 2010, decided to return to their homeland. After a month‑long visit to relatives in April 2025, the family moved permanently to Damascus in July and opened a climbing gym in the Mezzeh neighbourhood. The facility offers programmes that aim to build self‑esteem and community among Syrian youth. The Tasabehji siblings, all experienced climbers, hope the gym will contribute to the broader effort to rebuild Syria after years of war, while their father remains in Canada but is considering a permanent move as well.