Developing arabic culturally adapted ACE program

Culturally Adapting Psychological Flexibility Tools for Social Cohesion and Mental Wellness

Program Objectives

This project aims to develop a culturally adapted Arabic version of the ACE program (Acceptance and Commitment to Empowerment) to support psychological flexibility, social cohesion, and mental wellbeing within the Lebanese community. While many evidence-based psychosocial tools exist, they are often not fully accessible or culturally resonant in Arabic speaking contexts.

The project will focus on translating, adapting, and contextualizing ACE-based methodologies into simple, practical tools that reflect local language, cultural values, and lived realities. This includes integrating relatable examples, culturally relevant metaphors, and group-based practices that enhance understanding and engagement.

The adapted program will be designed for community facilitators, enabling them to deliver structured sessions that strengthen emotional awareness, interpersonal connection, and collective resilience. Through this initiative, KaYan aims to bridge the gap between global evidence-based practices and local community needs, making mental wellness tools more accessible, relatable, and scalable across diverse settings.

Month 1 and 2: Research & Content Development

• Review existing ACE frameworks and materials
• Translate core concepts into Arabic
• Adapt language, metaphors, and examples to local cultural contexts
• Develop initial curriculum structure and session outlines

Month 3 and 4: Pilot Testing & Refinement

• Test adapted content with small community groups
• Gather feedback on clarity, relevance, and engagement via focus groups
• Refine tools, exercises, and facilitation methods
• Prepare facilitator-friendly guides and materials

Month 5 and 6: Finalization & Dissemination

• Finalize Arabic ACE curriculum and toolkit
• Produce digital and printable resources
• Begin integration into Kayan’s ongoing community activities

Expected Impact

• The project will result in a fully developed Arabic ACE program, tailored to the cultural and social realities of the Lebanese community. The program will provide accessible, easy-to-use tools that support psychological flexibility, emotional awareness, and collective wellbeing.
• Community facilitators and educators will gain the ability to deliver structured sessions that foster connection, trust, and resilience within groups. The adapted materials will also increase engagement and understanding among participants who may not connect with noncontextualized or translated-only resources.
• In the long term, the project will contribute to university studied, evidence based, and tested models for stronger social cohesion and community-based mental health support systems, by embedding culturally relevant practices into everyday interactions and group settings.