KUWAIT: Volunteering plays a pivotal role in shaping lives by enhancing and developing individual capabilities. It extends beyond being a noble humanitarian act — serving as a fundamental pillar for building a robust and cohesive society. Through volunteering, individuals contribute their time, skills and efforts to various causes, fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility.

In Kuwait, a burgeoning wave of young volunteers is actively contributing to community betterment through their enthusiastic participation in various events. Thousands of energetic individuals are channeling their efforts to uplift and develop the community. Whether it is organizing charitable initiatives, environmental projects or educational endeavors, these young volunteers play a crucial role in addressing societal needs.

Farah Binjasim, 23, told Kuwait Times she started volunteering when she was 16. “I first volunteered when I was 16 years old; my mother took me to be a part of a cleaning campaign at Sulaibikhat Bay. When I saw how everyone was eagerly cleaning to make the place suitable for people and animals, I was attracted to such selfless behavior. Now I’m a part of a society called ‘For Kuwait’, gathering dozens of volunteers among citizens and residents to serve Kuwait,” she said.

Meanwhile, Dima Abdeen, 29, actively volunteers during Ramadan, saying she and her sisters are spiritually involved in many campaigns during the holy month. “Our humanitarian campaign includes distributing food supplies during the holy month of Ramadan to needy people. Sometimes we get together and participate in charities abroad to help refugees and poor people in neighboring countries,” she said. Abdeen revealed that her love for volunteerism arose when she was a university student, where they used to participate in trips to help orphans and restore dilapidated houses.

For his part, Faisal Essa, 21, affirmed that even one person can make a difference. “This selfless engagement fosters a sense of social responsibility, empathy and solidarity. Volunteers often develop a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives and challenges, promoting a more interconnected society. Additionally, the collective efforts of volunteers contribute to positive social change,” he noted.

Essa is highly active in cleaning campaigns. He participates in beach and desert cleanups, pointing out that his love for the environment is the reason he volunteers his effort and time for a pollution-free life. He called on the government to establish deterrent laws that prevent everyone from polluting the environment that we live in.

On the other hand, volunteering in election campaigns contributes to enhancing political awareness and civic participation, according to Ali Redha, 22, who confirmed that through volunteer work within political parties, young people have the opportunity to learn about the political scene in Kuwait and participate directly in the political process.

“This interaction helps create a generation that is aware and actively involved in the political life of the country. During my participation in volunteer electoral campaigns, I helped in organizing and assisting special needs voters. The experience was huge. Feeling proud of how much work you can accomplish is an indescribable feeling. I learned more when I was directly communicating with voters and officials —an experience to be repeated,” he said.