Two Canadian volunteers assist the Ministry of Youth and Civic Eductaion

Leading up to International Volunteer Day (IVD) on 5 December, Cameroon’s Ministry of Youth and Civic Education actively prepared for this major national celebration dedicated to recognising and promoting volunteerism.

The Ministry requested the technical support of two Canadian Cuso International volunteers: Naomi Jessica Mpana Tsango and Yann Yap. Their expertise was specifically requested to strengthen Cameroon’s National Volunteer Program in preparation for the 2025 edition of IVD.

For several weeks, Naomi and Yann put their skills in communication materials development and visual coverage respectively at the service of the team in charge of preparing the event. They worked closely with the program teams to support the essential aspects of the organisation and design the communication tools necessary for the success of the 2025 edition. Among the achievements completed are the presentation brochure, the marketing dossier, and several visibility elements designed to strengthen the image of volunteering in Cameroon.

The joint support of these two volunteers strengthens the coherence, visibility and impact of the national campaign, while supporting the ministry’s teams in a demanding preparation process that is crucial to the success of the event.

“It is a privilege to contribute to an initiative that reveals the power of volunteering as a social force. Together with local teams, we are building bridges between individual commitment and collective impact, highlighting those silent gestures that, day after day, shape a more caring and conscious society. It is a way of honouring commitment, connecting talents and making visible what collaboration and co-creation accomplish, often in silence,” says Naomi Mpana.

This support is part of the SHARE (Sharing Canadian Expertise for Inclusive Development and Gender Equality) program, implemented by Cuso with the support of the Government of Canada, through Global Affairs Canada. The program promotes the exchange of expertise between Canada and its partner countries by supporting inclusive and sustainable initiatives.

International Volunteer Day highlights the contribution of volunteers to development and social cohesion through activities of recognition, sharing and engagement.

About International Volunteers Day (IVD)

Celebrated annually on 5 December, International Volunteer Day was established by the United Nations in 1985 to recognise and promote the essential role of volunteers in development and solidarity around the world. It offers a unique opportunity to salute their commitment and encourage new forms of citizen participation in the service of the common good.