By Maria Cometti
The Women’s Skills Bureau (WSB) is a grassroots organization founded almost 10 years ago by entrepreneur and philanthropist Sally Kennedy. The original mission of WSB was to help expatriate wives find purpose and thrive during their time in Riyadh. Through events, a monthly newsletter, and sharing opportunities, WSB has evolved into a network of over 7500 individuals and organizations.
One of the most effective ways to discover a sense of purpose and community in a foreign country is through volunteering. Furthermore, even though many accompanying spouses in Riyadh are not able to work due to visa restrictions, these men and women can offer unique skills and expertise to local charities, non-profits, and community causes. As Mrs. Kennedy explains, “volunteering as an expatriate is one of the few paths to connect and find mutual values with our host country.”
WSB Volunteer is the volunteer arm of the Womenís Skills Bureau that pairs expat and Saudi volunteers with local nonprofits. Led by international development specialist Yousra Harmouch, WSB Volunteer aims to have a positive impact on the community. As Mrs. Harmouch states “We believe that by helping to improve the relationships between volunteers and local non-profits, the community will become stronger and healthier.”
Over the past 6 months, WSB Volunteer has placed more than 26 volunteers in different partner organizations. Some of these organizations include, Amaleed for Education and Empowerment, Feed the Need, Sanad, El Nahda, Alhambra US Chamber, and Threefold for internet services. Other initiatives are currently underway, including an Innovation and Entrepreneurship project in collaboration with ICT service provider Detasad and a series of workshops to assist job seekers with CV writing, job search, and online studies.
WSB understands that not all volunteers are able to make a long-term commitment and organizes a “One Day Volunteer” Series. The most recent event was organized around distributing food bags at a camp for low income workers. Furthermore, last March WSB helped organize a charity race in which 300 runners participated and over 7000 SAR was raised for Feed the Need charity.
“Knowing you have helped someone or a cause you believe in, makes us human and whole, and I sincerely believe gives back tenfold.” -WSB Founder, Sally Kennedy
“We believe in the power of volunteering to enrich our lives and the lives of those around us.” – WSB Volunteer Coordinator, Yousra Harmouch
“Many of us grew up volunteering and giving back to the community and can testify to its value,î explains Mrs Kennedy. “Moving to a new country isn’t a reason to stop giving back, but rather an even greater opportunity to do so. ìThe satisfaction one feels from making the world a better place is genuine.”
Ways you can get involved with WSB Volunteer:
- Join the Ramadan food bag distribution for camp workers.
- Offer your skills and expertise by leading a workshop in collaboration with WSB.
- Be part of the WSB Volunteer admin team.
- Register as a volunteer on the WSB website to be informed of upcoming opportunities.
To register as a volunteer, visit: volunteer.wsbksa.com
Email: volunteer@wsbksa.com
Instagram/Facebook: @wsbriyadh
