The Power of Volunteering: How Our Partners Turn Commitment into Impact

A time for celebration, the month of December is also marked by the International Volunteer Day. It is a perfect opportunity to honor those who give their time, skills, and energy in service of others.

The initiatives supported by the Nexans Foundation only have impact thanks to the dedication of volunteers who are involved on a daily basis. Whether they are Group employees or partners working directly in the field, their commitment is essential.
Through the voices of four leaders from partner organizations, discover how vocations are born and what sustains long-term engagement.

What is the source of your commitment?

Maurice Deletoille – Accesmad

Friendship is certainly the source of my commitment. I was already familiar with the Accesmad association when I retired from my professional life. I had time available, knew the organization since its creation, believed in its meaningful project, and saw that it needed support. When I was asked to get involved, I did not hesitate.

Mohamed Moumni – Mobadara

I carry out my associative activities on a voluntary basis because I consider it a duty toward society. I am also committed as a social actor, aiming to contribute to positive change.

Lak Bounkhong – Mekong Enfants des Rizières

My commitment comes from a deep conviction that every individual deserves dignity, protection, and opportunities, regardless of where they come from. Working closely with communities has shown me how appropriate support can transform life paths, especially for children and vulnerable families.
I have seen how even small improvements—such as access to electricity or basic services—can dramatically change daily life, particularly in remote areas. When partners choose to support us specifically on renewable energy projects, it strengthens my motivation even further, knowing that this support creates positive and long-lasting change for entire communities.

Edwige Mafanta Traoré – Posodev

My commitment was born from encounters with social realities in Côte d’Ivoire, particularly in the municipality of Katiola, where access to energy determines women’s autonomy and entrepreneurship. The solar electrification project provides a concrete response to urgent needs identified together with local communities. It reflects a commitment to social justice, gender equality, and sustainable development.

What does your commitment bring to you on a daily basis?

MD

The word that comes to mind is “connection.” Volunteering creates many opportunities to act together with others. When these actions generate social benefits, they give real meaning to the commitment. Compared to professional life, volunteering offers more freedom, even though it can sometimes be challenging to manage volunteers. As in any community, tensions may arise, but the outcomes foster far more cohesion than confrontation.

MM

My commitment gives me a deep sense of responsibility. It allows me to expand my knowledge, strengthen my relationships, and develop my skills. It is a powerful source of personal motivation.

LB

It brings me meaning, humility, and a sense of belonging to something greater than myself. It constantly reminds me that real change is possible when people unite around a shared vision.
Professionally, this commitment pushes me to innovate, adapt, and collaborate with diverse partners. Knowing that our efforts lay the groundwork for long-term improvements—such as the introduction of renewable energy solutions—gives me a strong sense of progress and determination.

EMT

It allows me to learn from others and to make a modest but meaningful contribution. Each completed project is a source of pride and learning. This commitment enriches me as a person just as much as it transforms the living conditions of beneficiaries.

What would you say to encourage someone to volunteer their time or energy?

MD

We live in a world that can feel difficult—politically and socially at home, and globally, where conflict dominates the news. Volunteering brings meaning. In Madagascar, where our association operates, challenges are immense. Yet since Accesmad was founded, thousands of students have rediscovered a love for learning, local teams have grown stronger, and partners have placed their trust in us. With goodwill, everyone can contribute a small stone to building a better world. A meaningful commitment is always worth it.

MM

As a high school teacher, I constantly encourage my students to engage in volunteer activities. I share real-life examples to raise awareness of the importance of voluntary work, especially among young people.

LB

Volunteering is one of the most meaningful ways to contribute to society, regardless of how much time one can offer. Every action—big or small—creates a ripple effect that can benefit individuals and entire communities. Volunteering allows personal growth, learning from others, and building bonds rooted in empathy. It offers the chance to step outside one’s routine, discover new perspectives, and realize the impact one can have simply by being present.

EMT

Volunteering is a unique human experience that brings a deep sense of purpose. Giving a bit of time—even evenings, weekends, or spare moments—means giving a great deal to those in need, and very often receiving far more in return, both humanly and experientially.