Empowering Communities: Celebrating Volunteerism on International Volunteer Day

You’ve heard the saying : “Union makes strength”. There is no better way to honor this truth than by celebrating  our volunteers around the world on International Volunteer Day. Volunteers are the heartbeat of every project, embodying dedication and generosity. It is through their selfless actions that meaningful change becomes possible. At Nexans, we are convinced that volunteerism is central to our mission of empowering communities and fostering a more sustainable future.

This year, we are proud to spotlight three impactful projects where the dedication of our volunteers has made a tangible difference. These initiatives demonstrate how collective action and commitment can change lives and bring hope to those in need.

Lighting the Path to Recovery in Chile

In 2024, the Fondation Nexans joined forces with TECHO Chile to support families in the Valparaíso Region affected by devastating wildfires. These fires destroyed homes and disrupted lives, leaving communities in urgent need of assistance.

As part of the initiative, Madeco by Nexans volunteers dedicated their efforts on September 6 and October 9 to the recovery of “Mirador de Forestal” and “Vista Las Palmas.” Through the installation of solar lights, 124 families not only gained enhanced security and quality of life but also a renewed sense of hope. This project stands as a testament to how volunteer action, combined with innovative solutions, can electrify the future for those most in need.

From dark to light, Luz al Barrio light up Lima

In Lima, Peru’s capital city, the Fondation Nexans and TECHO Peru worked on the “Luz al barrio” project. To prevent insecurity and reduce criminal activities, 40 volunteers worked together to install around 60 solar-powered streetlights across three neighborhoods. “It was important for me to dedicate my time and expertise to help communities through the Luz Al Barrio project. Thanks to all volunteers, resident of  the three neighborhoods we helped, will now feel safer” explained John Chacon, a Nexans Volunteer and Sales representative.

This initiative brings two significant benefits to the local communities. First, it reduces the insecurity feeling and enlighten dark places such as stairs which are numerous prevalent in these neighborhoods. Secondly, the solar-powered streetlights  promote the use of renewable and sustainable energy while avoiding the risks of irregular electrical connections.

Originally launched last year, the program has been renewed in 2024, with a new operation planned for this month.

In Brazil: Lighting up lives with a  simple  plastic bottle.

In Brazil, in the Amazon rainforest particularly, millions of people have no access to public lightning. When they do, there are frequent blackouts. That’s why Litro de Luz is engaged to providing sustainable lighting solutions to empower communities.

Thanks to the combined efforts of Litro de Luz and Fondation Nexans, the Bongaba community has now access to reliable street lighting. In 2023, 20 employees from Nexans Brazil went to Bongaba to help installing 30 solar powered light posts in the neighborhood. Volunteers were actively involved in various stages of the project : assembling, concreting and painting the poles, building the batteries with the residents, and even spending time playing with the local children. A unique feature of this initiative is the use of recycled plastic bottles as light bulb protection – a clever and eco-friendly way to repurpose waste.  “This day spent with Bongaba community was  very special to me. It taught me a lot. said ” Ticciana BARRETO, Nexans PCP Analyst and volunteer .

Learn more about this project by watching the following video :

Volunteers: The Heart of Change

These initiatives demonstrate the power of volunteerism to ignite meaningful change. At Nexans, our volunteers are more than participants—they are catalysts for hope, sustainability, and social inclusion. Their actions illuminate the path toward a brighter, more resilient future for communities worldwide.

On this International Volunteer Day, we extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who contributes to making the world a better place. Together, through our collective efforts, we are building a legacy of compassion and empowerment.