The celebrated Lebanese singer Hiba Tawaji performed a touching fundraising concert from the heart of Notre Dame University-Louaize (NDU) in a collective effort with the University to support the financial aid of its students. Under the slogan “For the Future of Lebanon and its Youth”, the vibrant event took place at the University’s main campus in Zouk Mosbeh, where fellow students, guests, and attendees gathered for a united cause and a shared initiative launched last year with the participation of distinguished singer Magida El Roumi.
The awaited concert involved the presence of NDU President Fr. Bechara Khoury; the Minister of Tourism Walid Nassar; Bishop Paul- Marwan Tabet, Eparch of the Eparchy of Saint Maron in Canada; Mgr. Antoine Bou Najem, Bishop of the Maronite Diocese of Antelias; Rabih Frem representing INDEVCO Group; a delegation from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID); H.E. former Minister and Chairperson of NDU’s Board of Trustees, Dr. Ziyad Baroud and its members; artistic, cultural, and media figures, as well as NDU faculty, staff, and students.
The concert started off with the Lebanese national anthem, followed by a moving speech by the singer herself. During her address, Tawaji reaffirmed her commitment to support students, as well as the critical urgency and need to prioritize their education – a move she referred to as an “investment” in the future of our country.
“Tonight represents an opportunity for all of us to reassert our dedication to the young people who will lead the nation towards a better tomorrow. The responsibility is significant for all of us, and I believe that art carries profound meanings and noble human values. It is not just a form of self-expression but also a powerful tool for conveying positive messages and influencing society,” she then added.
Majed Bou Hadir, Director of Public Affairs and Protocol, then delivered a speech, warmly welcoming the audience, singer Hiba Tawaji, and musical conductor Oussama Rahbani. In his address, Bou Hadir stated: "Hiba, we held your name in high regard and eagerly hoped for you and Oussama's presence with us on this evening. We prayed for the success of this memorable event, and then arrived that awaited day, the day where our University proves once again its dedication to an educational mission driven forward through art and music.”
Bou Hadir then welcomed Fr. Khoury, who in turn, shared his thoughts on the anticipated event. Following the performance of the second song titled “Yemken Habaytak”, the NDU President took the time to welcome Tawaji and the musical composer Oussama Rahbani, saying: "Good evening to everyone who came to find joy, rekindle love, and support the youth of Lebanon. Good evening to NDU, which shares this annual tradition with you, and honors this evening with a lady who is truly a gift from heaven, gifted in every way."
The Father President then added: “At our University, we recognize that an appreciation for culture and the arts is just as vital as a passion for science and knowledge. Both domains hold equal significance. Our aim is to provide an education rooted in the values of truth and righteousness, enriched by the culture, heritage, and history of our people, embodying both sophistication and civilization.
Turning to the artist Hiba, he addressed her warmly, "Sing with passion, creating a love that transcends eternal boundaries. Even amidst the distant echoes of missiles, your songs bring us hope, gently nurturing our community with the beauty of your voice and the sweetness of your melodies."
Fr. Khoury then acknowledged Oussama Rahbani, stating, “Oussama, your resoluteness is truly remarkable. Your music is powerful, your singing magnificent, and your creativity unparalleled. With your operatic voice resonating globally, and alongside Oussama, dear Hiba, you flourish amidst turmoil.”
Concluding his speech, Fr. Khoury expressed his gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of this event through their attendance, support, and encouragement. Special thanks were also given to musician Oussama Rahbani for his exceptional leadership and supervision of this event alongside the NDU Choir. The Father President also presented singer Hiba Tawaji with a commemorative gift featuring the Blessed Virgin Mary, the University’s patron Saint, carved into the rock of faith. This symbolizes NDU’s foundation and mission, proudly upheld under the banner of truth and joy, "Gaudium de Veritate." As for musical composer Oussama Rahbani, he was awarded a commemorative gift featuring the face of the Blessed Virgin Mary and portrayed through the words of NDU’s anthem, which was composed by two influential figures in contemporary Lebanese culture: the esteemed poet and writer Saeed Akl and the distinguished musician Elias Rahbani.
“Let us continue to support education to meet evolving global challenges,” Fr. Khoury finally asserted.