Malak

Civil Engineer

Malak faced hard times in finding a job as a civil engineer after finishing school. She spent two years looking for work but refused to take no for an answer. Eventually, Malak came across an Education For Employment training in her field. She learned how to effectively work on a team, manage her time, and honed other important soft skills she needed to succeed. After graduating from the training, Malak began working as a civil engineer helping Palestinians get the water they need to live. Malak is now 31 years old and has nearly 5 years of experience working at the Palestine Water Authority. After graduating from EFE, she was eager to get involved in all the different facets of civil engineering. Malak began to learn as much as she could to build a strong foundation for her career and become an expert. With her mind set on reaching higher positions, she decided to specialize in the water sector of civil engineering. Now, not only does her boss turn to her when they need help, but many managers within the Water Authority rely on her as well. Malak admits she faces some challenges at work despite her expertise. “Sometimes [my colleagues] try to exclude me from getting the chance of getting a better position due to my young age. Even though managers do know my great skills and experience, but someone would eventually come and illuminate my name”. This does not discourage Malak. It makes her even more determined to get promoted. She is eager to find other opportunities to enhance the skills she believes she hasn't mastered in order to achieve her goals. She is interested in taking more training in strategic planning, advanced communication, and leadership. “The trainings I have taken with EFE-Palestine were great for me as a fresh graduate, but with the experience and people I run into every day, I know I should enhance my skills even more”. Since her work can be stressful at times, Malak is focused on finding balance. She believes that while everyone has stressful days at work, having a hobby can help to distress. This is why Malak started a new-side-business making handmade gifts. She enrolled in one of EFE-Palestine's newest trainings in entrepreneurship and is taking another training in graphic design to help her to relax and enjoy her time on weekends.