'Digital lifeline' - Gaza tech workers give glimpse of possible future
Thousands of young people in Gaza are pursuing roles in the digital economy as the territory's wider recovery stalls.
In Gaza, software engineer Walaa Volidis finds solace in her digital work, telling a video call mentor in California's Silicon Valley how she won't let the hardships deter her from her dreams. The 24-year-old, living in a tent with her parents and siblings, lost everything due to the war, including her job and family members. Prioritizing work, she focuses on maintaining her skills amidst the rubble.
Gaza's unemployment rate has soared to over 80%, compared to 22% pre-war. The UN notes that humanity is the primary support for the two million residents. Online work, particularly freelancing abroad, is seen as a promising opportunity, dubbed a "digital lifeline" by US organization Mercy Corps. Humanitarian groups recognize the importance of getting people back to work, moving beyond dependence on aid.
Co-working spaces, supported by Mercy Corps, provide internet access and power solutions to young Gazans seeking to rebuild their careers. Tarik Zaeem, once a chief technology officer, now works as a freelance programmer, finding a sense of escape in developing mobile apps for clients abroad. Despite the challenges, reaching clients and receiving payments remains a struggle due to banking restrictions and high broker fees.
The ongoing conflict, marked by Israeli bombardments, continues to pose risks for tech workers. Mahran Bayed, a tech worker living in a tent near Shifa hospital, faces significant obstacles after losing his equipment and home during the war. Despite the difficulties, he finds purpose in freelancing to create digital solutions, emphasizing the global reach technology offers while highlighting the constant threat of attacks.
Written by urgent.news from BBC World's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
