Career on hold? Ahmad shares how to press play

Like many young boys with a strong family influence, Ahmad had always aspired to become a doctor or engineer, or teacher. It was always a solid direction that guided his education throughout his youth.

And until 2019, Ahmad was on track to do just that. But as the impacts of the war intensified in Daraa, Ahmad's hometown, it became impossible for him to finish his English literature degree and for him to remain in Syria.

Ahmad became part of the 3.6 million Syrians to seek refuge in Türkiye.

Pressing pause in Türkiye

“I came to Türkiye and started working in the factories as a daily worker."

Like many refugees, Ahmad could not provide proof of his previous studies and couldn't afford to pursue further education in Türkiye due to cost. He decided to put his career on pause until he could figure things out.

Ahmad learned Turkish and quickly rose in seniority and responsibility within the factory.

I make my dreams according to reality.

Ahmad explained, reflecting on his experiences. But the textile industry wouldn't keep him satisfied career-wise for long.

Putting his career into play

Once he was settled and a little more financially stable, Ahmad started to investigate alternative careers. And just like when he was a kid, Ahmad's parents were keen to help push him in the right direction.

“I always feel lucky when I talk about my family because I really have an amazing one." Ahmad reflects. So when Ahmad's dad read about new jobs popping up in programming and coding, Ahmad started learning HTML.

"I am passionate about learning new things and challenges," So when Ahmad saw a Facebook ad for Re:Coded’s Frontend Bootcamp he jumped at the opportunity. It gave him a little hope beyond the textile industry.

"I saw the ad I said ok this would be better I think.”

Luckily, Ahmad was accepted, and just like that, a new career was on the horizon.

"Everything I learned was surprising because I have no background about it, especially javascript and the things we can do with it. And I was surprised by the community this bootcamp provides." Ahmad shared, "Like I really didn't see that coming, to feel like these people are your family, something you can't find anywhere. And the trainers were so nice and so friendly, they made this big family which I will really miss after finishing the bootcamp.”

Back on track

After the bootcamp, Ahmad plans on finding his first job in the digital economy.

“My ambition after the bootcamp is to find a job first as frontend dev so I can earn more experience and continue learning to become a full stack and more maybe." Ahmad's career is looking brighter than ever, equipped with technical and soft skills and a good dose of ambition.

"And for the long terms goals," Ahmad adds, "I'd say it's to start my own company in this industry."