Gaza Dina Najjar

As a site engineer, my role is technical, organisational and supervisory to enable accurate production of the building designs.

I really like my job as I believe that I contribute meaningfully to the development process of my community. A day in my life is about planned, organised and intense efforts towards achieving my goals. 

I am currently working on a project of Rehabilitation of Substandard Housing Units in Gaza Strip. The project improves living conditions for families by supplying safe and reliable housing, and reduces the financial and psychological burden by providing the required materials for rehabilitation. It also creates job opportunities, revitalising the construction industry and supporting economic growth. 

Every project has something memorable. I worked on constructing a water reservoir in the middle area of Gaza. At the site there was an olive tree that was hundreds of years old. It was supposed to be removed to start the project. I raised a case with the project manager and suggested contacting the donor to consider the preservation of the olive trees. Besides preserving the plant’s environment, the olive tree means a lot to Palestine – it is a permanent symbol of peace. It was a success! The donor approved the continuing of the project without removing these perennial trees. This was an experience in my career that really resonated with me and why I enjoy doing what I do, to have these types of experiences.  

CTG has been a big support to me in helping me achieve my goals through a collaborative team. Although my job has its challenges, I am very proud of what I do and my contribution to the development of my community.

I’m also proud to be promoting gender equality which Palestinian people are open to and aware of. Palestinian women play a big role in the development of the community as well.