Amazon Web Services has announced a collaboration with Manara, a social impact startup focused on technology talent in the MENA. This partnership aims to train 2 500 software engineers in cloud computing skills, backed by a substantial investment of $3.6 million from AWS over the next two years.

The initiative is designed to enhance the skill sets of software engineers, data scientists, and AI engineers in the region, preparing them for the digital economy. AWS and Manara believe that MENA is on the brink of becoming a significant technology hub within the next decade. Recently, AWS also revealed plans for a $5.3 billion investment in Saudi Arabia, further emphasizing its commitment to the region.

Iliana Montauk, Founder and CEO of Manara, highlighted the potential of the Middle East as a technology talent frontier. She stated that their collaboration with AWS is a strong commitment to developing tech talent across MENA and equipping them with the necessary skills and resources for success in the evolving digital landscape.

Founded by two female entrepreneurs in Silicon Valley, Manara has gained recognition in the tech community and is supported by prominent investors such as Y Combinator and Seedcamp. The startup aims to promote diversity and inclusion, particularly focusing on empowering women in the tech field.

Antonio Alonso Lopez, Director of Partner Management for EMEA at AWS, expressed the company’s dedication to providing quality training for learners and organizations. He mentioned that by working with partners like Manara, they are equipping communities with the skills needed for careers in cloud computing and generative AI.

The training for the 2 500 software engineers will utilize Manara’s education technology platform, offering AWS Certifications and pathways to job opportunities. Companies in MENA, Europe, and North America will be able to access these trained engineers through Manara’s hiring services. Interested candidates and employers can register at www.manara.tech.

Omar AlSakka, a graduate of a previous AWS initiative, shared that the program significantly boosted his confidence and skills in AWS services and cloud computing. His experience underscores the program’s impact on opening doors for graduates in the tech industry.