Al Afak Center began in 2002 as a family project fueled by passion — a passion for teaching the German language and sharing its culture. It was founded by Engineer Fawaz Al-Ratel and his wife, Mrs. Nada Al-Ratel, a specialist in teaching German as a foreign language.
Having lived in Germany for more than twenty years, they gained invaluable academic and cultural experience, which became the cornerstone of the strong educational vision behind the Center.
From the very beginning, Al Afak offered German language courses based on the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) — starting with the early G1, G2, and G3 levels, now known as A1, A2, and B1. The goal was not only to teach the language, but to bring the authentic German spirit into every classroom.
Over the years, the Center built close cooperation with the Goethe-Institut in Beirut and established continuous communication with universities across Germany. This allowed Al Afak to guide students through academic counseling, university admissions, and the realization of their educational dreams.
In 2002, when the German Embassy in Beirut officially recognized Mrs. Nada Al-Ratel as a certified translator, it strengthened the Center’s reputation and affirmed the quality and trust that define Al Afak.
The journey was not without challenges. In 2007, during the Lebanon-Israel war, the Center stood resilient, holding firmly to its mission — keeping the German language and culture alive in northern Lebanon despite difficult times.
In 2011, the passing of Mr. Fawaz Al-Ratel left a deep void in the hearts of many. Yet, from this loss, Mrs. Nada drew strength and determination. She carried on his legacy with unwavering resolve — managing courses, administration, and translation services — proving that grief, when guided by purpose, can become a source of inspiration and light.
By 2016, Dr. Rayan Al-Ratel, Nada’s daughter, joined the journey as a German instructor. With a strong background in pharmacy and a Master’s in pharmaceutical management, she brought a new dimension to the educational experience at Al Afak, blending precision with creativity.
In 2017, after Mrs. Nada faced health challenges, Engineer Imad Al-Ratel, the youngest son, returned from Germany to assist in administration. His engineering mindset transformed challenges into opportunities, improving the Center’s operations and management systems. By 2019, he had become the Administrative Director, steering the Center forward with innovation and discipline.
In 2023, Mr. Dyaa El-Ratel, an experienced electrical engineer with over a decade of expertise in industry, management, and R&D in the automotive sector in Germany, returned home. Together with Mr. Imad, he assumed senior leadership and revitalized Al Afak — transforming it from a small family initiative into a professional institution with around 20 employees, forging strategic partnerships with prominent universities and companies both in Lebanon and Germany.
Today, the story of Al Afak Center remains alive — built on the legacy of Fawaz and Nada Al-Ratel, whose vision continues to guide every step.
With steadfast dedication, ambitious goals, and an unbreakable spirit, Al Afak stands as a beacon of excellence and continuity in the world of education — a place where every student’s journey towards a bright future begins.