Gaza’s freelancers turn to coworking spaces to stay connected and employed

In Gaza, freelancers who once worked from home are now increasingly turning to shared working spaces to stay connected and employed. With an unemployment rate of 85 per cent, according to the International Labour Organisation, the labour market in Gaza is close to collapse due to the relentless war with Hamas and other militant groups. Freelance work has become a lifeline for many in this war-torn territory.

Amira Nassar, a 28-year-old journalist and voice-over artist, pays about 300 shekels ($90) a month to work in a coworking space five days a week. She explained that stable internet and electricity are essential for her work, and the coworking space in the Al Sana neighbourhood offers exactly that. Despite the lack of a reliable transport system, she walks about 30 minutes to reach the space due to the unreliability of internet access and electricity in her Al Sabra neighbourhood.

Qosai Hassouna, a 26-year-old programmer from Gaza city, also relies on coworking spaces for his work. Meeting clients can be challenging during the war, as internet disruptions can occur unexpectedly. Hassouna emphasized the importance of a stable working environment, stating, “We go directly to places like these to get our work done where that will not happen.”

Gaza Sky Geeks, a programme supported by Mercy Corps, offers vital support for freelancers and technology companies in Gaza. Rand Safi, a senior manager at the organisation, mentioned that their programmes were briefly disrupted after the attacks of October 7, 2023, but technical training resumed with the objective of keeping Gaza's digital workforce connected to the global technology industry.

The organisation provides training in various fields, including artificial intelligence, and helps freelancers establish themselves on freelance platforms and compete for international contracts.

One of the businesses supported by Gaza Sky Geeks is Concept Company, founded in 2020 by Mohammed Halawa. The company quickly built a professional community around IT and remote work in Gaza city. When Halawa returned to Gaza city after displacement to the south, Gaza Sky Geeks helped open a third base for Concept and expanded its solar power system.

The new premises can accommodate about 30 people, with a full-time monthly subscription costing about 250 shekels, or 10 shekels for a full day or five shekels for five hours. Halawa highlighted the significance of professional communities for freelancers, emphasizing that isolating oneself can hinder job opportunities and professional development.