On 21 April 21 2024, the Ensemelkhir Cidh Club of Ecole Nationale Supérieure d'Electricité et de Mécanique (ENSEM) in Casablanca hosted an insightful event that brought together change leaders to discuss the role and impact of volunteer engineers in sustainable development projects. The conference provided a unique platform to inspire future volunteer engineering students and fostered discussions on the added value of volunteering in developing personal and practical skills.

It also highlighted how to create micro-entrepreneurship, and how to benefit from international programs that go voluntarily. With a diverse range of speakers, the conference aimed to explore the ways in which engineers can actively contribute to social issues as volunteers.

Mr. Driss Rhafes, President of the Solidarity Committee at APEBI - Federation of Information Technology, Telecommunications, and Offshoring, delivered an insightful presentation on leveraging technology for social impact. He emphasized the role of volunteer engineers in utilizing their skills and knowledge to tackle pressing societal challenges and drive sustainable change.

Mr. Mohamed Essafi El Ouarzazi, Entrepreneur and Founder of the khatwa.ma Platform & 3labal Khatwa Partners Application, shared his entrepreneurial journey and highlighted the potential of technology in empowering engineers to create innovative solutions for community development. His presentation inspired attendees to think outside the box and explore entrepreneurial avenues.

Mme. Fatima Ezzydany, Responsible for Entrepreneurship and Reporting Support at CARE International Morocco, focused on the significance of entrepreneurship in the context of volunteer engineering. Fatima shed light on the various opportunities available for engineers to initiate their own projects and make a tangible difference in the lives of others.

Mr. Essaid Meria, Field Manager at the High Atlas Foundation, shared his CorpsAfrica volunteer experiences in Morocco and Rwanda. He emphasized the transformative power of engaging in volunteer work, both at home and abroad. Essaid encouraged attendees to step out of their comfort zones, embrace new challenges, and leverage their knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on society. He also shared his journey assisting community projects at the High Atlas Foundation, highlighting the work and programs that the organization has undertaken during and after the 8 September 2023 earthquake. Essaid emphasized the importance of a participatory approach that the High Atlas Foundation employs in any different program and project.

The rewarding event served as a catalyst for inspiring future engineers and promoting the role of volunteer engineering in sustainable development. The insights shared by the distinguished speakers highlighted the immense potential of engineers to effect change through their voluntary contributions. This event reinforced the importance of stepping beyond academia and utilizing engineering expertise to address real-world challenges.

By embracing the power of volunteer engineering, we can create a brighter future for communities worldwide. Let this conference serve as a driving force for all aspiring engineers to actively engage in projects that promote sustainable development and social well-being.