A SCHOLARSHIP. A COMMUNITY. A LASTING IMPACT. QADDUMI FOUNDATION MASTER’S SCHOLARSHIP IN THE UK
ABOUT QADDUMI FOUNDATION Qaddumi Foundation is a Palestinian nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering Palestinians through impactful learning opportunities. For over 25 years, QF has supported talented individuals in realizing their potential, broadening their horizons, and contributing to their communities. At the heart of its work is the belief that education goes beyond individual achievement. Through its programs and initiatives, Qaddumi Foundation nurtures a connected community of changemakers who share knowledge, experiences, and opportunities, turning individual growth into collective impact and contributing to a better future for Palestine. QF’s Vision
OUR UK SCHOLARSHIP IN NUMBERS 70 48% Fields of Study including Engineering, Technology, Fine Arts, and Business Administration Graduated with Distinction 89 2002 25 Palestinian Scholars Supported 43% UK Scholarship Program Launched Over Pursued PhDs Leading UK Universities £2.5M Invested in Palestinian Scholars 56% 44% West Bank & Jerusalem Gaza 25% 75%
WHERE OUR SCHOLARS STUDIED
FROM OPPORTUNITY TO Shaker’s master’s degree at the University of Manchester, supported by the Qaddumi Foundation Scholarship, became an important stepping stone in his academic career. The experience enabled him to secure several PhD scholarship offers in the UK, Japan, and Turkey, before completing his PhD in Electronic Engineering at Queen Mary University of London. Today, he is an Assistant Professor at the University of Nottingham. Shaker believes the Qaddumi Foundation Scholarship offers Palestinian students a unique opportunity to pursue postgraduate study at leading UK universities, while providing the flexibility and support to shape their own academic and professional paths. SHAKER AL KARAKI, PHD Home City: Hebron MSc Communication Engineering, 2013 (Distinction) Currently Assistant Professor, University of Nottingham, UK
IMPACT For Zohair, studying at Imperial College London laid the foundation for a remarkable academic and professional journey. It led him directly to a PhD in Electronic Engineering at The Australian National University, where his research earned him the Best PhD Thesis Award at AusCTW 2019. He went on to build an international research career across Luxembourg, Spain and Sweden, working with NASA, the European Space Agency and Australian federal agencies. Today, as a Program Manager at Aurizn, he leads multidisciplinary teams across major projects. For Zohair, the Qaddumi Foundation Scholarship set this journey in motion, giving him access to world-class postgraduate education and opening the door to opportunities on an international scale. ZOHAIR ABU-SHABAN, PHD Home City: Gaza MSc Communications and Signal Processing, 2010 (Distinction) Currently Program Manager, Aurizn Pty Ltd, Australia
Studying for his master’s degree in Project Management at the University of Manchester marked a turning point in Amer’s academic and professional journey. The experience broadened his international perspective, strengthened his knowledge and confidence, and equipped him with the independence and adaptability to work across different cultures and environments. He went on to build a successful international career in project management, contributing to major developments across the region, and today serves as a Director at Majid Al Futtaim. For Amer, the Qaddumi Foundation Scholarship provided opportunity to focus on his studies, laying the foundation for the career he has built today. AMER ABU ZAINEH Home City: Hebron MSc Project Management, 2004 (Distinction) Currently Director at Majid Al Futtaim, UAE
For Asma, studying for her MBA at the University of Bath was an opportunity to broaden her understanding of herself and the world around her. Supported by the Qaddumi Foundation Scholarship, the experience strengthened Asma’s relational intelligence, which has become central to her professional journey. Today, as a Partnership Advisor at the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, she builds trust-based relationships with donors and mobilizes support for farmers and communities affected by crises. For Asma, the scholarship offered more than access to graduate education; it expanded her sense of what was possible and where she could contribute, helping her build a career that keeps her connected to her roots while creating meaningful impact. ASMA’ AHMAD Home City: Ramallah MBA, 2010 Currently Partnership Advisor – Strategic Engagement with Gulf Sovereign Donors at the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, UAE
Wisam’s master’s degree in Information Systems Engineering at the University of Manchester, supported by the Qaddumi Foundation Scholarship, gave him valuable international academic experience and enabled him to pursue his academic ambitions. He earned a PhD in Information Systems and Data Analytics from the National University of Singapore and built a career in higher education. Today, as a Head of Department and Assistant Professor, Wisam contributes to education in Palestine and has helped launch new undergraduate and postgraduate programs at Palestinian universities. For Wisam, the Qaddumi Foundation Scholarship provided the support that made his UK studies possible, opening the way for his continued academic journey and contribution to higher education in Palestine. WISAM ZAQOOT, PHD Home City: Gaza MSc Information Systems Engineering, 2008 Currently Head of Department & Assistant Professor, Ministry of Education (Palestine) & Al-Aqsa University, Palestine
Marking the beginning of a transformational academic journey, Haytham’s master’s degree in Project Management at the University of Manchester was supported by the Qaddumi Foundation Scholarship. Following his master’s degree, he earned a PhD in Project Management at the University of Manchester through a studentship and went on to build a career in academia. Today, he is an Associate Professor of Project Management at Oryx University, in partnership with Liverpool John Moores University. For Haytham, the Qaddumi Foundation Scholarship goes beyond financial support; it invests in talented Palestinian students and a growing community of scholars, empowering future leaders and changemakers whose knowledge and expertise can contribute to Palestine and wider society. HAYTHAM BESAISO, PHD Home City: Gaza MSc Project Management, 2012 (Distinction) Currently Associate Professor of Project Management at Oryx University, Qatar
Yacoub’s master’s degree in Informatics at the University of Manchester, supported by the Qaddumi Foundation Scholarship, broadened his academic and international perspective while strengthening his technical skills and confidence. Returning to Palestine, he built a career in higher education and technology, sharing his knowledge through teaching, training and mentoring, while contributing to initiatives that connect young people with engineering and technology. Today, he is a Senior Lecturer at Al-Quds University and has supervised dozens of student projects, several of which developed into initiatives and startups addressing community needs. Yacoub also contributes to the Qaddumi Foundation as an alumni evaluator, giving him the opportunity to help extend the same educational opportunity that once supported his own journey to a new generation of Palestinian students. YACOUB SABATIN Home City: Bethlehem MSc Informatics, 2007 (Distinction) Currently Senior Lecturer at Al-Quds University, Palestine
Supported by the Qaddumi Foundation Scholarship, Wasim pursued his master’s degree in Distributed Systems & Networks at the University of Kent, an experience that broadened his academic and professional perspective and strengthened his research skills, confidence and independence. After graduating, he spent eight years as a Network Administrator and later taught IT and networking courses, before moving into institutional research. Today, as an Institutional Research Administrator at Bethlehem University, Wasim combines his technical background with data and research to support informed decision-making that benefits students and the wider university community. For Wasim, the Qaddumi Foundation Scholarship provided access to high-quality postgraduate education, creating a lasting impact on his academic and professional growth. WASIM ZOGHBI Home City: Bethlehem MSc Distributed Systems & Networks, 2004 (Distinction) Currently Institutional Research Administrator at Bethlehem University, Palestine
Khaldoun’s MBA at the University of Cambridge, supported by the Qaddumi Foundation Scholarship, helped shape his entrepreneurial journey. He went on to co-found Alma Health in 2020, which was acquired by Carbon Health in 2025, where he now holds an executive role in the United States. Building on his professional success, Khaldoun later returned to the Qaddumi Foundation as a donor, mobilizing his network and resources to support undergraduate scholars. For Khaldoun, the Qaddumi Foundation provided not only an opportunity to advance his own education but also a platform to give back, enabling him to extend the same educational support he once received to a new generation of Palestinian students. KHALDOUN BUSHNAQ Home City: Ramallah MBA, 2015 Currently Executive at Carbon Health, United States
Supported by the Qaddumi Foundation Scholarship, Iyad pursued his master’s degree in Civil Engineering at Imperial College London, graduating with Distinction. Years earlier, while working as an engineer at CCC in Oman, he kept the word “Master’s” pinned to his wall as a reminder of the opportunity he was determined to pursue. Today, Iyad works as a consultant in artificial intelligence and cloud computing and is the founder of Damodi, a travel-tech venture he is building while actively seeking Palestinian talent to join its journey. For Iyad, the Qaddumi Foundation Scholarship turned a long-held academic ambition into reality, opening doors to new opportunities and becoming a meaningful part of the milestones that have shaped his personal and professional journey. IYAD ZIMMO Home City: Gaza MSc Civil Engineering, 2019 (Distinction) Currently AI and Cloud Computing Consultant and Founder of Damodi, UK
Amal’s journey strengthened her strategic thinking and equipped her to contribute more effectively to people’s needs in Gaza. During her studies, Amal was recognized as a top student and received the Ann Ritchie Memorial Prize. Since then she has contributed to the development of Gaza's Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and led impact evaluation for initiatives funded by the international community including USAID, the European Union, the Asfari Foundation, and UNRWA. Today, Amal leads child protection programs with UNICEF, supporting children across Gaza in overcoming trauma. AMAL ABU AISHA SHANTY Home City: Gaza MBA, 2013 (Distinction) Currently Senior Child Protection Program Officer at UNICEF, Gaza
Saleem’s experience at the University of Glasgow connected him with industry experts, and strengthened his technical expertise and confidence. This marked a turning point in his career, leading him to become a lecturer at Birzeit University before pursuing opportunities with leading organizations in artificial intelligence. Saleem believes that the Qaddumi Foundation Scholarship enables ambitious Palestinian students to access world-class education, gain international experience, and become part of a strong and lasting community of scholars and professionals. SALEEM HAMO Home City: Ramallah MSc Robotics & Artificial Intelligence, 2024 (Distinction) Currently Staff AI Engineer, AI71, UAE
Husam’s experience at the University of Nottingham strengthened his critical thinking, independence, and research skills. This laid the foundation for his PhD in Manufacturing Engineering and Operations Management, also at Nottingham. During his doctoral studies, Husam developed a management tool that was later adopted by Rolls-Royce. Husam says the Qaddumi Foundation Scholarship represents more than financial support; rather, it is a long-term investment in Palestinian talent, empowering scholars to realize their potential and give back to their communities. HUSAM ARMAN, PHD Home City: Nablus MSc Operations Management and Manufacturing Systems, 2004 Currently Research Specialist at the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Kuwait
Rouand’s experience at Birmingham University allowed her to cooperate with other talented students from around the world, broadened her perspective, and inspired her to combine neuroscience with computer science to explore the potential of artificial intelligence in healthcare. Today, this foundation continues to shape her work, including the development of an AI-powered mobile phone application designed to support people living with the Parkinson’s Disease. Rouand believes that the Qaddumi Foundation Scholarship stands out for its long-standing commitment to supporting Palestinian students while nourishing a strong and connected community. ROUAND DAHLEYAH Home City: Tulkarm MSc Computational Neuroscience and Cognitive Robotics, 2024 Currently Senior Developer at Alpha Omega Engineering
Rafif’s experience at the University of Nottingham broadened her professional horizons, strengthened her problem-solving and project management skills, and opened doors to opportunities with international organizations. Today, Rafif contributes to the protection of Palestinian cultural heritage through the INTIQAL program, supporting efforts that led to listing the Monastery of Saint Hilarion on the UNESCO World Heritage site. She was awarded the 2026 British Council UK Alumni Award. Rafif values the Qaddumi Foundation’s continued support, including its role in connecting scholars with their communities. RAFIF AL AMASSI Home City: Gaza MSc Sustainable Building Technology, 2017 (Distinction) Currently INTIQAL Development and Quality Manager at Premiere Urgence Internationale, Egypt
During his time at the University of Nottingham Mustafa developed a deeper understanding of research and analysis and expanded his expertise in transportation and infrastructure engineering. He later completed his PhD in Transportation Engineering at the University of Nottingham and now serves as a Principal Engineer at AECOM, contributing to infrastructure projects around the world. Mustafa believes that the Qaddumi Foundation scholarship is about providing Palestinian students with the opportunities, guidance, and confidence to pursue their ambitions and shape a better future for Palestine and the world. MUSTAFA ABOUFOUL, PHD Home City: Gaza MSc Transportation Engineering, 2014 (Distinction) Currently Principal Engineer at AECOM, UK
Qassam’s experience at the University of Bristol exposed him to a highly research-driven and independent learning environment, where he developed advanced technical expertise. This foundation led to a role at Semi Corporation (Murata) and later paved the way for an EPSRC-funded PhD in Electronic and Electrical Engineering at University College London (UCL). Today, Qassam is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Queen’s University Belfast. Qassam values the Qaddumi Foundation Scholarship for its financial support and its commitment to nurturing a community of highly qualified Palestinian scholars. QASSAM FARHAT, PHD Home City: Ramallah MSc Advanced Microelectronic Systems Engineering, 2020 (Distinction) , Currently Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Queen s University Belfast, UK
At King’s College London, Othman gained experience working with diverse teams and clients. Othman was endorsed as an Exceptional Talent by Tech Nation through the UK’s Global Talent Visa Program, one of the most prestigious recognitions in the technology sector. He values the Qaddumi Foundation Scholarship for the comprehensive support and guidance it provides before, during, and long after students complete their master’s degrees. OTHMAN ALKHAMRA Home City: Ramallah MSc Advanced Software Engineering with Management, 2018 (Distinction) Currently Senior Software Engineer at Scale AI, UK
Moutasem’s experience at the University of Edinburgh exposed him to a world-class academic environment and leading experts in sustainable energy systems, strengthening his commitment to advancing renewable energy in Palestine. Moutasem developed the four-year undergraduate curriculum for the Renewable Energy Engineering program at Al-Zaytuna University for Science and Technology in Salfit, Palestine, aligning it with international academic standards while addressing the needs of Palestine’s energy sector. Moutasem believes that the Qaddumi Foundation Scholarship’s lasting impact lies in building a community of Palestinian youth committed to contributing to Palestine’s sustainable development. MOUTASEM HASSAN Home City: Hebron MSc Sustainable Energy Systems, 2017 Currently University Lecturer, Al-Zaytuna University for Science and Technology, Palestine
During her MBA, Amany researched the success factors for women entrepreneurs in the Gaza Strip, highlighting the determination and innovation of Palestinian women. Today, her research continues to guide her work with UNFPA, where she supports gender-responsive and women-centered programs. Amany believes that the Qaddumi Foundation Scholarship stands out for investing in outstanding Palestinian students at world-class universities while fostering a lifelong community built on mentorship, engagement, and mutual support. AMANY ABUALQUMBOZ HANIYA Home City: Gaza MBA, 2018 Currently Youth Program Officer, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), UK
Mariam’s experience at the University of Southampton exposed her to new teaching and research approaches, strengthening her independence, confidence, and adaptability. Upon returning to Palestine, she worked as a university lecturer for three years, sharing the knowledge and skills she had gained during her studies. Today, Mariam continues her academic journey through further studies in Artificial Intelligence. Mariam believes that the Qaddumi Foundation Scholarship opens doors not only to academic achievement, but also to lasting personal and professional growth. MARIAM SHEHADA Home City: Tulkarm MSc Biomedical Engineering, 2020 (Distinction)
Ala’a’s experience at the University of Leeds broadened her horizons. It exposed her to diverse cultures and perspectives and strengthened the knowledge and skills that have supported her professional growth. Upon returning to Palestine, she secured a position and was soon promoted from Coordinator to Officer. Ala’a values the Qaddumi Foundation not only for supporting students but also for its continued engagement with alumni through a strong and active community that extends well beyond graduation. ALA’A ALDADA Home City: Gaza MSc Water Sanitation and Health Engineering, 2020 (Distinction)
Before studying at University College London, Ibrahim graduated at the top of his class in Civil Engineering. During his master’s studies, he transitioned into programming and data science, a step that ultimately led him to become a technology entrepreneur and the founder of AddressLeads. Ibrahim believes that the Qaddumi Foundation Scholarship stands out because it goes beyond financial support; it is an investment in Palestinian students as future leaders and changemakers. IBRAHIM ALHADIDI Home City: Gaza MSc Spatio-temporal Analytics & Big Data Mining, 2019 (Distinction) Currently Founder of AddressLeads, Russia
Shafik’s experience at University College London broadened his personal and professional perspective and provided him with a strong foundation in data science. During his master’s studies, he completed his thesis in collaboration with Tesco. Shortly after graduation, Shafik placed fourth in a Jerusalem hackathon, demonstrating his ability to apply his knowledge in a highly competitive environment. Shafik values the Qaddumi Foundation Scholarship for its rigorous selection process and the lifelong sense of belonging it fosters through a strong and supportive community of Palestinian scholars. SHAFIK BISHARAT Home City: Nazareth MSc Data Science, 2017 (Distinction) Currently Data Scientist, Unity 3D
Shehab’s experience at the University of Leeds broadened his professional perspective and helped shape the entrepreneurial mindset that has guided his career. Since then, Shehab has founded and developed multiple ventures across Palestine and the region. Shehab believes that the Qaddumi Foundation Scholarship stands out for its understanding of Palestinian students’ needs and for fostering a lifelong community of scholars and professionals committed to growth, collaboration, and lasting impact. SHEHAB AHMED Home City: Gaza MSc Environmental Engineering and Project Management, 2014 Currently CEO at BioBrands Ltd, Palestine
Ayham’s experience at the University of Leeds exposed him to an international learning environment and strengthened his project management skills through cooperation with peers and professionals from diverse backgrounds. During his master’s studies, Ayham received the Best Dissertation Prize and the Best Student Prize in his program. Today, he works as a young expert in Non-Revenue Water (NRW) and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) at World Waternet. Ayham values the Qaddumi Foundation Scholarship for its comprehensive support and strong community network. AYHAM ANNAJJAR Home City: Hebron MSc Engineering Project Management, 2025 (Distinction) Currently NRW & KPIs Young Expert at World Waternet, UK
For 25 years, we have worked to create opportunities for Palestinian youth, guided by a belief in their potential and what they can achieve. Yet our ambitions extend far beyond where we stand today. We have never allowed challenges to define what is possible, and we never will. Dr. Nabil Qaddumi, Chairman Our greatest achievement is not measured by the programs we deliver, but by the impact of our community members, who are now partners in our mission and changemakers in Palestine and wherever they are. Rana Diab, Executive Director The Next Chapter, Together. The stories in these pages reflect what becomes possible when talent meets opportunity. Together, we can open new doors for Palestinian scholars, nurture the next generation of changemakers, and build on a legacy of education and impact. LET’S SHAPE WHAT COMES NEXT.
