Q: Tell us about yourself (Name, background, interests and how long you have been with Sahara)
My name is Elfridah Asak, I am from Rivers State, and I live in Port Harcourt. I hold a Masters degree in Global Human Resource Management, and have worked in the banking, hospitality, retail, consulting sectors before joining Sahara. I currently serve as the Head of HR and Corporate Services. I have been here for approximately 6 years.
Q: What’s your motivation for volunteering?
I’m not sure about the word “motivation” in this context… But I think it’s the natural and human thing to do. We live in a global village today, and wherever we go, it’s obvious that in one way or the other, the overall quality of life can be better for all. It is morally compelling for me to remain aware, and it’s a true privilege to be able to see and embrace opportunities that enable me contribute to a better world.
Q: Describe your volunteering experience with the Sahara Foundation?
The Sahara Foundation has done commendable work here in Rivers State, impacting communities through shared knowledge, resources and it’s been a personal blessing and fulfilment for me to have been involved.
Q: What contribution or achievement are you most proud?
In 2018/2019, FIPL was able to renovate a 1976 community school building. We put in boreholes and toilets that were never there. Equipped classes with shelves, desks and white boards. Before then, the pupils had stopped coming to school because it was unsanitary and not comfortable, but with what we did, the population of the children doubled. It is good to know you can affect a life directly or indirectly by just contributing.
Q: What other organizations or causes do you support or volunteer for?
I serve in church and I’m involved with an orphanage here in Port Harcourt.
Q: Do you know about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)? If yes, what do you think of them?
Yes, the SDGs were formulated by the United Nations to tackle global poverty, ensure a sustainable environment and generally promote a better life, with particular focus on poor nations. But while these are great ideals, the global participation in terms of implementation can be better.
Q: What do you think about Sahara Foundations new focus areas (Access to Clean Energy and Promoting Sustainable Environment)?
It’s definitely a welcome development, being clearly aligned with the SDGs. With Management’s enthusiasm and direct involvement that we’ve seen so far, the indications are that there would be significant impact particularly in terms of general public awareness of both the immediate and ultimate positive effects of clean energy and a healthy environment.
Q: What message would you like to share with others about volunteering?
There’s no limit to what change you can bring about as one person if you are willing. Your life is truly worthy only to the extent that you live it for others. And it doesn’t have to take too much, if you’re willing you’ll find the time, and somehow the resources will come.
Q: Kindly share your social media handles (Instagram and LinkedIn)
Instagram: @fridahsk
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elfridah-asak-36523162
