"Volunteering professionally might seem daunting, especially in a new country with a different language and culture. But the magic often happens when we push our boundaries. The result is a deeper sense of fulfillment and a richer tapestry of connections that can help us in ways we can't yet foresee. And lastly, it is FUN! The laughter that I shared with my new friends will be enough to sustain me until the next Tech2Empower adventure....I wonder where that will be?"
In our rapidly changing world, the importance of giving back cannot be overstated. Professional volunteerism, the act of using our skills and expertise to help non-profits and NGOs tackle pressing social, environmental, and cultural issues, is a transformative way to create positive change. After completing my second Tech2Empower program through WAKE, I am convinced more than ever that professional volunteerism is that bridge, connecting us to non-profits and NGOs across the globe. And the results cannot be overstated. A month ago, I took part in Tech2Empower for Ukraine which was hosted in the beautiful city of Vilnius in Lithuania.
As advisors Viktoriia Talashkevych , Laura Titas and I were partnered with the Diversity Development Group which is helping migrant communities, specifically Ukrainians find purpose and growth in the next chapter of their lives by supporting them with educational workshops, language training and professional development. And then, at the end of the week, we had the privilege to work with a group of Ukrainian women, displaced by the war and living in Lithuania, to help them with their entrepreneurial endeavors. They were the very definition of resilience in the face of extreme, unimaginable trauma. The whole experience was humbling, rewarding and fulfilling in so many ways and made me look deeper into why Professional Volunteerism is so crucial for any tech or non-tech professional. Here are a few insights that have become clear to me:
Amplifying Impact: Non-profits and NGOs often operate on limited resources, and for design there are often no resources whatsoever. By offering our professional skills, we enhance their capabilities, enabling their stories and missions to reach more people and create a more significant impact.
Global Collaboration: Working with organizations in different countries exposes us to diverse cultures, perspectives, and challenges. This global collaboration not only broadens our understanding but also fosters international solidarity. In our preparation meeting before we leave for the program, the founder of Wake International, Trish Tierney told us that we would learn more from the non-profits that we were partnered with than they would ever learn from us. After participating in two Tech2Empower programs so far, that has most definitely been the case!
Personal Growth: Stepping out of our comfort zones and collaborating with professionals from various backgrounds enriches our personal and professional lives. It enhances our adaptability, communication skills, and cultural intelligence. It's a chance to challenge ourselves, learn new perspectives, and adapt to diverse working environments.
Expanding Networks: Engaging in professional volunteerism expands our network beyond the boundaries of our industry. We connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a difference, paving the way for future collaborations and opportunities. After my weeks in Rwanda and now Lithuania, my social media world and online chats & emails are brimming with updates from my new friends who will be part of my life forever. As a social person, this truly is an unexpected gift and one that I treasure now that I am back in my everyday routine at home.
Inspiring Others: When we lead by example, we inspire others to contribute their skills and time. Collective efforts drive significant change, and our actions can spark a chain reaction of positive impact.
Volunteering professionally might seem daunting, especially in a new country with a different language and culture. But the magic often happens when we push our boundaries. The result is a deeper sense of fulfillment and a richer tapestry of connections that can help us in ways we can't yet foresee. And lastly, it is FUN! The laughter that I shared with my new friends will be enough to sustain me until the next Tech2Empower adventure....I wonder where that will be?
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