“I dream of expanding our efforts to even more countries. There is a huge need for impartial Danish advice and our technical expertise, especially when combined with the implementation of sustainable technologies. This can create long-term solutions that help far more people,” says Aleksander Birk Andersen, who receives the award for his tireless commitment and dedication as Chair of the Ukraine Country Team. He is pictured here at a Ukrainian school during one of his many missions.

The other nominees for the award were Egil Bartos and Hans Emil Suhr Andersen. Egil has been deployed multiple times on short notice to both Ukraine and Sierra Leone, including to assist with the reconstruction of Dukono School. Emil has shown great commitment as project lead on the climate project in Sierra Leone and has also led EWB’s solar project in Ukraine.

“Being named Volunteer of the Year means a lot to me, but I primarily see it as recognition of the entire team’s efforts. The work we’ve done in Ukraine and on rebuilding EWB’s response capability has been a close collaboration, where everyone’s contribution has been crucial. For me, it is especially motivating to see how the efforts in Ukraine are now really taking shape and making a tangible difference,” concludes Aleksander.