Messages from the Board on Volunteer Appreciation Day 2021

Message from Nasira Aziz, Director of Leadership:

I am so delighted to see all of you gather here to celebrate our commitment, dedication, contribution and achievements. Your contribution has had a profound and lasting impact on SCWIST as an organization and of course on removing the barriers in the path of women in STEM. Your willingness to selflessly dedicate both your time and your talent says a lot about each of you. As a volunteer, you bring a lot to this organization. Skills, voice, experience, network, vision, leadership, inspiration and so much more In eastern literature, it is said that every word of a writer is an act of generosity. I would like to say every ACT of a volunteer is an act of generosity. I want to let you know how much your dedication is appreciated and want to make sure you all know that everyone at SCWIST is forever grateful to each of you. Either you are a long-time volunteer, or you got involved just recently, and regardless of how many hours you gave, it’s important for you to know that what you contributed made a difference. Thank you so much for serving on the SCWIST committees this year. Words cannot adequately express the gratitude that I and the SCWIST Board wish to convey. Please know that your volunteerism is recognized, appreciated, and valued. Do you know what is the most precious resource in our lives? I believe it’s time, Time is priceless. Your time volunteering must be valued but we can never put a value on that time. How can you value something that is priceless? So today, we take a little time out to thank you for the amazing “time in” that you give. On behalf of the Board of Directors, it is my great pleasure – and my great honour – to say thank you!

Message from Maria Issa, Director of Finance, summarizing benefits of doing volunteer work:

• Its good for your health
• Its good for your resume
• You broaden your skillset
• You gain real-world experience for your resume
• You make an impact
• You have a voice
• You are contributing to the United Nations’ sustainable development goals (really!!)
• You contribute to a cause you believe in
• You empower others
• You make meaningful connections
• You gain a new perspective
• You are inspired and you inspire
• You gain a new perspective

The bottom line is: For whatever reason you volunteer – you do amazing work that is SYNERGISTIC – not just additive. It is because of you and your efforts that SCWIST is increasingly recognized as the voice of women in STEM. Well done – and THANK YOU!!