UNDP Saudi Arabia has engaged 8 national UN Volunteers for the first time in its country office, Riyadh, 7 of whom are female. The UNVs have been assigned to support administration, programme, communications and procurement.

UNV Headquarters in Bonn, Germany, invited the UNVs to attend the Assignment Preparation Training (APT) that is aimed to equip UN Youth Volunteers with skills that are fundamental in their work with the UN, in an intercultural environment, and to help pave the way for a meaningful contribution and personal and professional growth during the assignment.

UNV Lamia Al-ALshaikh, Programme Assistant in UNDP, said “It was an unforgettable experience. We communicated with people from different backgrounds with diverse thinking. Working in groups collectively taught us how to work harmoniously to deliver results effectively. Overall, we grew from this experience and attained lifelong traits that will help us make the world a better place.”

UNV Daad AlQordi, Executive Assistant in UNDP, added " This assignment has helped me to develop my knowledge and skills personally and professionally, as well as understanding the meaning of volunteerism" 

UNV Manar AlSaleh, Programme Assistant in UNDP, " APT in Bonn was very informative and I am extremly excited to implement the strategies that I have learned in my assignment" 

Globally, and now in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, UNDP actively encourages volunteerism.