Executive Director & Cofounder

Lama Amr

Lama is BuildPalestine’s Executive Director where she leads the organization’s initiatives to empower social entrepreneurs at all stages of their journey. Lama has coached over 80 projects to raise $1M+ through crowdfunding. Under her leadership, BuildPalestine has become the central hub for social entrepreneurship in Palestine. Lama has also co-founded the Founder Institute chapter in Palestine, where 27 tech startups have graduated across five cohorts. With a strong passion for enhancing the entrepreneurial ecosystem, Lama is dedicated to strengthening opportunities for growth and social impact in the region.

Born and raised in Dura (outside of Hebron), Lama holds a degree in Business Administration with a minor in Accounting from Birzeit University. In her personal life, she enjoys nature photography and video making.

Fellowship Program Manager

Riham Wahidi

Riham Wahidi brings over 10 years of experience across diverse sectors, specializing in ecosystem development, impact-driven business models, and program design. As Programs Manager at BuildPalestine, she is at the heart of creating the support systems that help social entrepreneurs turn their ideas into sustainable, high-impact ventures. Riham designs and leads tailored programs that provide entrepreneurs with essential mentorship, resources, and strategic guidance while also building key partnerships with ESOs, civil society, and government to strengthen the broader ecosystem. Riham holds a degree in Business Administration from An-Najah University. Beyond work, Riham’s passion for fashion and therapy drives her belief in self-expression as a powerful tool for confidence and empowerment—one bold step at a time.

Community Coordinator

Tasnim Khlaif

Tasnim is BuildPalestine’s Community Coordinator, leading content creation and storytelling to highlight the organisation’s impact. With experience in content development, event coordination, and community engagement, she brings ideas to life through powerful visuals and narratives. She holds a degree in media and journalism from Birzeit University and is passionate about amplifying voices that often go unheard. Beyond work, her camera is always by her side, capturing untold stories of resilience, beauty, and defiance—whether in Palestine or anywhere else in the world.

Finance & Administrative Coordinator

Rand Shomali

Rand is BuildPalestine’s Financial and Administrative Coordinator, leading all financial and administrative operations to ensure efficiency, compliance, and sustainable growth. She manages budgeting, financial reporting, and operational processes to support the organization’s mission effectively. IIn addition to her internal role, Rand helps social entrepreneurs develop financial strategies, manage budgets, and ensure sustainability. She provides guidance on planning, reporting, and compliance, helping them strengthen their businesses and create a lasting impact. Before joining BuildPalestine, Rand gained valuable experience in compliance and audit at Deloitte, deepening her expertise in financial planning, reporting, and regulatory adherence. She holds a BA in Finance and Banking from Birzeit University.

Beyond work, Rand enjoys cooking, traveling, and exploring nature, whether through hiking or simply appreciating the outdoors.

Partnerships & Communications Manager

Anam Raheem

Anam leads and supports in areas including communications, partnership & program development, and strategic planning. Anam brings 10+ years of experience in the social innovation, job creation, and entrepreneurship sectors in the Arab region, most recently spending 5 years in Gaza working at Gaza Sky Geeks, a Google-backed tech accelerator. She holds a BA from Georgetown University. Outside of work, Anam loves yoga, creative writing, and being in nature. 

Senior Program Coordinator

Nadia AbuShaban

Nadia coordinates the Falafel Theory Innovation Program, driving its mission to empower Palestinian changemakers. With 7+ years of experience in community building, business development, and communications, she has worked with leading organizations in entrepreneurship and humanitarian impact. Previously, at Gaza Sky Geeks, she championed startup engagement and women-led initiatives. Beyond her work, Nadia is a passionate social activist and storyteller, using her platform to amplify voices from Gaza. She thrives on new ideas, meaningful connections, and creating impact.

Fellowship Program Coordinator

Manar Jawabreh

Manar is a Program Coordinator at BuildPalestine, supporting the organization’s mission to empower Palestinian communities. She holds a BA in English Literature & Translation from Birzeit University and brings valuable experience in coordination, STEAM education, and community engagement from her previous roles at A.M Qattan Foundation and Palestinian Center for Peace and Democracy. Manar has significantly contributed to enhancing and delivering educational and community-focused projects. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring music, engaging with art, and staying active.

Web Developer

Mohammed Al-Madhoun

Designer

Mahran Ismail