Amir Fakih recently graduated from Notre Dame University with a degree in visual arts. Yet, like many Lebanese graduates, the expectations he'd had during university – being able to conquer the world with his degree, being able to make a difference, being the voice of his society's youth – came crashing down when faced with reality.
Because of an economy monopolized by the few (typically corrupt sectarian leaders) that practically runs on nepotism – or what the Lebanese call wasta – the idealist student is quickly meant to adapt to the harsh status quo.
Depicting this reality through pictures that quickly went viral, Fakih, with the help of photographer Ramzi Maalouf, showcased the reality of youth unemployment in Lebanon. Wearing his cap and gown, Fakih took to the streets of Beirut's Hamra to beg, sell flowers, work in grocery shop and drive a bobcat.