Salesforce Volunteers Empowering Lives in Tanzania with Make A Difference Now

In a world where corporate social responsibility is increasingly vital, Salesforce stands out for its commitment to giving back. Recently, a group of dedicated Salesforce employees took advantage of their Volunteer Time Off (VTO) to travel to Tanzania and participate in a life-changing experience with Make A Difference Now (MAD).

The Mission: Business Empowerment

For one week, these volunteers immersed themselves in MAD’s Business Empowerment (BE) Program, which equips disadvantaged youth and women with the skills to secure employment or start their own businesses. The volunteers provided training on creating professional CVs and crafting compelling cover letters, empowering participants to take control of their futures.

Building Bonds Beyond Business

The volunteers did much more than just share their professional expertise; they formed deep, meaningful connections with the students they mentored. One volunteer, Dafina, expressed the impact of these relationships, saying, “I got to know and form relationships with locals. They will have some place in my heart forever.” This sentiment captures the essence of the experience—one that transcends mere professional development and touches on the power of human connection.

Francesco, another volunteer, beautifully summed up the experience by saying, "We came as visitors and leave as friends." This profound statement highlights the emotional bonds formed and the lasting impact of the week spent together.

Cultural Immersion and Adventure

The week also included rich cultural activities, such as a visit to one student’s village, a day hike up Mount Kilimanjaro, Swahili lessons, and a safari. These experiences allowed the volunteers to fully immerse themselves in Tanzanian culture. 

Matthias, reflecting on the experience stated, "I felt very integrated with the local culture. I built a small network during that time and didn’t feel like a visitor or tourist." This sense of belonging and integration is a testament to the warm hospitality of the Tanzanian people and the deep connections formed during the visit.

Making a Difference Together

The volunteers’ work was not just about imparting knowledge; it was about empowering individuals to take control of their futures. Through their efforts, the Salesforce team helped open doors for these young people, providing them with the tools they need to succeed. The volunteers returned home not just with memories, but with a deep sense of fulfillment and a newfound understanding of the difference that even a short time can make in the lives of others.

For those who participated, the week in Tanzania was more than just a volunteer trip; it was an opportunity to build bridges across cultures, share knowledge and experiences, and make a difference that will resonate for years to come.

Support from Salesforce

Salesforce management was supportive throughout the process, encouraging and enabling volunteers to take time away from work to fully engage in this meaningful experience.

A Call to Action

The volunteers’ advice to anyone considering a similar experience is simple: "Don't hesitate, just do it, you will not regret it!" This partnership between Salesforce and MAD is a testament to the power of volunteering to create lasting change in the world.

Click here for more information about volunteering in Tanzania