About Wasla Connect

About Us

Wasla Connect was founded by a group of experienced technology and leadership professionals committed to identifying ways to use tech for good, build bridges, and foster connections. Wasla Connect uses adaptive technologies to address conflicts, build resilient communities, and promote innovation and growth, even under challenging circumstances.

What We Do

Wasla Connect focuses on empowering displaced Palestinians by providing them with essential technical skills, mentorship, and educational opportunities to lead and innovate. Our goal is to help them rebuild their lives and thrive in a competitive job market. By offering targeted support, we aim to create pathways for their success and integration into the tech industry.

Our Purpose

At Wasla Connect, our purpose is to transform displacement into direction. By connecting individuals to mentorship, education, and professional growth opportunities, we help rebuild confidence, unlock potential, and create pathways toward long-term independence and resilience.

Our Mission

We empower Palestinians displaced by war to build careers in technology through mentorship, skills training, and access to higher education, fostering hope, resilience, and long-term self-sufficiency.

Our Vision

A world where communities affected by war and displacement gain technology skills, meaningful resources, and strong professional networks to thrive confidently and sustainably in the global economy.

Meet Our Leadership & Team
A dedicated group of professionals committed to empowering displaced Palestinians through education, mentorship, and technology-driven opportunity.
Khadija Ramlawi
Co-founder, Board Member
Engineer and business analyst dedicated to youth and women empowerment in Palestine. Helped establish over 300 micro businesses in Gaza to enhance livelihoods and drive socio-economic development.
Ateka Ali
Co-founder, Board Member
Learning experience leader with 15+ years at Google and Meta. Head of Learning at Bonfire Women, designing curricula that empower women to lead and drive meaningful change.
James Ketterer
Board Member
Senior Fellow at Bard College and former dean at AUC. Extensive experience in international education, cultural diplomacy, and global development leadership.
Erin Keeley
Board Member
Engineer and investor with two decades in Silicon Valley leadership roles at IBM, Hitachi, and Western Digital. Advocate for STEM education and women’s empowerment.
Reem El-Mograby
Board Member
Higher education professional with over 10 years experience and MBA from AUC. Champions inclusive environments and advocates for Palestinian communities.
Yousef Hammad
Board Member
Investment professional with experience in public equity, banking, and technology M&A. Finance graduate from Michigan State University.

QUESTIONS ?

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Wasla Connect is a non-political, educational nonprofit organization dedicated to helping displaced Palestinian maintain and upskill their tech skills during conflicts through mentorship, live soft skill training and university courses.

  • Our mission is to empower Palestinians displaced by war to build careers in tech through mentorship, skills training, and access to higher education. We foster hope, resilience, and self-sufficiency through learning and collaboration.

  • Wasla Connect primarily serves displaced Palestinians that have evacuated who are interested in enhancing their tech skills and connecting with the global tech community.

  • You can get involved by volunteering as a mentor, donating to support our programs, or participating in our educational initiatives.

View All FAQs

Legal Status: Wasla Connect is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (EIN: 99-3778982).