2800km by Bike for Lebanon (Baja Divide)

Hello, I’m Georgio—a son of Lebanon, deeply tied to my homeland’s rich roots and stories, like so many others who left seeking a brighter future. I once vowed, “If I leave, who will stay?” Yet, like many from my generation, I found myself leaving.

Lebanon’s recent history has been marked by immense hardship. 1.2 million displaced from the south, more than 2800 lives lost, and a relentless struggle for survival. Yet, despite everything, I refuse to let go of hope. I believe better days will come. War cannot last forever (war money is finite) and I am certain that a peaceful, civic movement will pave the way for change.

My optimism, perhaps, is part of my inheritance. Both my parents instilled in me the belief that education is the path to a prosperous future. My father, a devoted mathematician, helped shape Lebanon’s educational system, one that I was fortunate to benefit from. But that system, once a pillar of progress, now crumbles under the weight of economic collapse, the scars of the port blast, and the recent conflicts.

This year, I had planned a six-week bikepacking journey along the Baja Divide in Mexico. Little did I know that, as I prepared for this sabbatical, war would once again extend its shadow over Lebanon. Now, I want to transform this journey into more than an adventure; I want it to be a platform for raising awareness and support for Lebanon.

I invite you to join me. Follow my 2,800 km bikepacking journey through desert tracks, mountains, remote ranchos and fishing villages, and miles and miles of beautiful backcountry. I’ll be sharing stories, sights, and reflections along the way. My goal is to raise €10,452— 1 euro for each square kilometer of Lebanon. A symbolic amount but also a political statement.

In addition, I’ll be auctioning my bike, a Kona Unit X (without add ons), to support this effort (update: the bike needed a lot of repairs at the end of the trip, so I kept the bike and donated €250 instead). All funds from the fundraiser and auction will go to the Beit El Baraka educational fund, Forsa. This trusted NGO ensures dignity for hardworking Lebanese citizens by helping them afford food, medical care, and education amidst an ever-rising cost of living. Their approach is respectful, transparent, and sustainably impactful.

Join me in supporting Lebanon through Beit El Baraka’s work, and follow along as I share this journey on Instagram. Thank you for believing, as I do, that Lebanon’s story is a never ending adventure.

Thank you.