Amanuel Hailemariam in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
In this new blog series, I’d like to ask some questions to people from different countries, backgrounds, professions, and genders who have all one thing in common: volunteering. I hope you’ll get inspired by their journeys and take the leap into volunteering.
Notice: The positions, views and information contained published here are those of the interviewee and do not necessarily represent my views or opinions.
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Eng. Amanuel Hailemariam is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and PMI-PMO Certified Practitioner (PMO-CP) with extensive experience in leading complex construction and infrastructure projects across Ethiopia, including schools, apartments, parks, dams, roads, and mining facilities. He holds a master’s degree in civil engineering and currently serves as President of the Project Management Institute (PMI) Ethiopia Chapter, promoting excellence, capacity building, and professional development. From sixth grade, Amanuel began volunteering in clubs like first aid, Science club and fine arts, organizing school events on health initiatives such as clean hands campaigns and teaching about transmitted diseases. This early commitment to giving back shaped his identity. Internationally, he engages with organizations like the Federation of African Engineering Organizations (FAEO), World Federation of Engineering Organizations (WFEO), ConstructAfrica, Ethiopian Standard Institute and ISO, and World Council of Civil Engineers (WCCE), contributing to dialogues on infrastructure, climate resilience, and digital transformation, representing Ethiopia and Africa globally..
Connect with Amanuel on Linkedin to know more.
How did you begin to volunteer?
I started volunteering in sixth grade, joining clubs like Science Club, first aid and fine arts. Organizing school events, like clean hands campaigns and teaching about transmitted diseases, made giving back feel natural and rewarding.
Why did you continue volunteering?
Giving back is part of who I am—I never questioned it. I've invested most of my time in volunteering while working smart for a living, as it connects me to others and creates real impact.
How has volunteering helped you in your career? Could you share two examples/stories, please?
Volunteering has been a game-changer for my career. One example is my engineering volunteering, which opened doors to contribute to national and international standards and code development. This gave me a chance to connect with brilliant minds and access cutting-edge technology and knowledge, boosting my expertise significantly. Another example is my work with the PMI chapter, which enhanced my credibility nationally and sharpened my communication, leadership, and management skills. This transition from a technical role to a wise leader has been key to my growth, especially in guiding complex projects with confidence.
Would you encourage other people to volunteer, and if so, why?
Yes, I’d encourage everyone to volunteer! It leads to a fulfilling, satisfied life by boosting social connections, building networks, and increasing social capital. Plus, it lets you live harmoniously with others while creating a positive impact that benefits both you and the community.
