TAP’s actions to identify potential high-quality tech talent is based on a combination of high impact, attractive digital marketing and physically establishing a presence within the local community. Palestinian youth are amongst the highest educated in the MENA region, so by casting a wide net and combing through talent across the entire West Bank and Gaza, TAP can access tech talent whose talent would’ve otherwise stayed hidden. Through diligent screening processes TAP assesses applicants' technical and soft skills, which along with motivation drivers paint a picture of highly skilled and motivated talent looking to advance their careers.

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One of the questions asked of the students during interviews was why they chose to apply to their chosen program. A key theme that could be identified from the responses was the desire to either advance within their field, or to shift from one field to another field close to it. The following quote is from Sanaa Aslan who explained her motivation for pursuing a TAP program:

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This emphasis on better employment was also present in the interviews conducted for the purpose of the impact report. Most of TAP’s tech talent interviewed had worked full-time within their field or a field close to it, and spoke of toxic and harsh work conditions:

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TAPers are looking for the ability to advance in their career, and have a flexible and healthy work environment. As 70% of TAPers have prior work experience, this shows that the people pursuing TAP programs are not just looking for employment, but see TAP as a pathway towards higher quality employment.

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Read more about TAPs work in our most recent impact report