DUBAI: There is no sector of society that the COVID-19 pandemic hasn’t touched and local businesses have been hit especially hard. With all non-essential businesses forced to close their doors in a bid to slow the spread of the infectious disease, many regional brands are struggling to generate revenue, while others, like e-tailer The Modist, have shuttered permanently. Like many, Lebanese blogger Lana El-Sahely is touched by these stories and has decided to do something to raise awareness about the impact of COVID-19 on the economy, particularly in her native Lebanon. On Friday, El-Sahely jumped on an Instagram Live discussion with Lebanese financial advisor Danielle Hatim, and founder of finance blog D Does Business, to discuss how country-wide lockdowns would ultimately result in a more devastated economy, plunging businesses, higher unemployment rates and subsequent rising poverty. According to Hatim, businesses in Lebanon are losing between $120 to $150 million dollars per day due to the lockdown. Following the discussion, El-Sahely felt compelled to support and shine a light on local Lebanese business Colycco by Lyn. “So I received products from Colycco, which are really incredible products because it’s all about … small businesses that are part of this production process and it’s all traditional things,” the blogger said, showcasing a lineup of beauty products, including a lavender candle, vanilla-scented hand wash and organic shampoo. El-Sahley shared a photo of a handwritten note that came along with the gift package, which explained that “several local, small businesses play a role in Colycco’s production process, making sure they are supported whilst we curate products from our local nature.” On Saturday, the blogger was joined on Instagram Live by Lebanese psychologist Rassil Ghazzaoui, where they discussed how to de-escalate tensions at home during the lockdown. Besides hosting live discussions and spotlighting local businesses, El-Sahley has been using her time in lockdown to spend more time with her young son and keep on top of her fitness regime. From sharing healthy recipes to posting throwback shots of her time travelling the world, the influencer has been keeping her 407,000-strong following on Instagram entertained with her day-to-day routine at home.