Tarek was born on the coast of the Mediterranean, in Syria.

One of five children, Tarek earned a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering, worked for several small companies as a freelance developer, and volunteered as a teacher with the Syrian Computer Society. Tarek was part way through a Master’s degree focused on augmented reality when the war brought normal life to a halt.

Life in a war zone

Like many civilians, Tarek began to fear for his life. Being a young man, there was also a risk he would be forced to join the army. With the country’s economy crumbling, Tarek knew he would be unable to finish his studies or build a career in Syria. So in late 2015 he fled across the border to Lebanon.

Tarek managed to find some work as a software developer in Lebanon - but without the proper working rights, his job was highly insecure. While Tarek’s living conditions were decent compared to many displaced Syrians, he knew that with no laws to protect him, it would be impossible to create a stable environment where he could raise a family, and his skills may go to waste.

An opportunity

Tarek heard about Talent Beyond Boundaries through a friend living in Canada, and added his CV to the Talent Catalog in 2017. TBB recognised Tarek as an exceptional candidate, and helped him refine his CV, undertake mock interviews with professional mentors, and record a ‘one-way interview’ to help attract potential employers. In the meantime, TBB put Tarek forward to potential employers in Australia.

Financial technology company, IRESS, expressed interest in Tarek’s CV, and he took part in a rigorous recruitment process. In July 2018, after several rounds of interviews, Tarek was offered a Software Engineer role with IRESS in Melbourne, Australia.

TBB connected IRESS and Tarek with a migration agent who assisted them with Tarek’s visa application which was granted in December 2018. Tarek arrived at Melbourne airport on 16 January 2019 to a small welcoming party, including the team at TBB and some of his new colleagues from IRESS.

Life in Australia

Tarek is now settled in Melbourne, working hard, making new friends, and learning about Australian culture. He is passionate about music, photography, reading, philosophy, the arts, and volunteering. He hopes to complete his Master’s degree one day, and he wants to use his skills to make a difference in the world.