Lessons in Collaboration: My Experience at the Engineers Without Borders National Conference By Olivia Chowhurdy
As the Project Manager for Purdue’s Engineers Without Borders (EWB) Rwanda Projects, I lead a team of 30 students designing and implementing a water distribution system in rural Rwanda. Through our partnership with the community, we have learned a lot about the value of engaging local experts in making our designs more contextually appropriate for the region, and less US-centric. We recognized that our partnership model is more unique, and that there are other examples in which we as a chapter take a step back. Doing less in certain areas provides our partners with more autonomy, ultimately leading to a more effective and sustainable solution. Inspired by this, we drafted a proposal for the EWB National Conference in Charlotte, NC, and were thrilled when our session, “Beyond Purposeful Partners: What Does Doing Less Look Like?” was selected.
As the Project Manager for Purdue’s Engineers Without Borders (EWB) Rwanda Projects, I lead a team of 30 students designing and implementing a water distribution system in rural Rwanda. Through our partnership with the community, we have learned a lot about the value of engaging local experts in making our designs more contextually appropriate for the region, and less US-centric. We recognized that our partnership model is more unique, and that there are other examples in which we as a chapter take a step back. Doing less in certain areas provides our partners with more autonomy, ultimately leading to a more effective and sustainable solution. Inspired by this, we drafted a proposal for the EWB National Conference in Charlotte, NC, and were thrilled when our session, “Beyond Purposeful Partners: What Does Doing Less Look Like?” was selected. In March, six other Purdue EWB members and I traveled to the conference, eager to connect with and learn from other chapters and projects.
Olivia (second from right) with other members of the Purdue University EWB chapter next to their presentation.
The team and I decided that we would all go to different sessions throughout the days to maximize our takeaways. Fundraising was also a major topic at the conference, with a session outlining strategies to raise $100K in a year. Funding our projects is a constant challenge, and it was helpful to hear from student chapters that were able to meet their financial goals. Additionally, at the EWB Board of Directors Town Hall, and throughout lunches and keynote speeches, I was able to reflect on my hope for the future of EWB, and the role student chapters play in shaping global development initiatives.
When it was our time to present, excitement outweighed my nerves. My team and I had put in countless hours in preparation and before the conference, we worried about engagement in the interactive parts of our session. But after just a few hours at the conference, it was clear that all attendees were eager to learn and participate. Our presentation was very successful – but not just because of our preparation, but because of the engaged and participative audience. I am proud of our team’s effort and grateful for the meaningful discussions that occurred during our session.
One of the most engaging sessions I went to was about inter-chapter collaboration, which provided insight into how different EWB chapters support one another. This was particularly helpful, because our Rwandan partners – Gustave and Emmanuel – were visiting from Rwanda. Through their visit I was able to connect with other chapters, also partnered with Gustave and Emmanuel, strengthening my network of like-minded students and opening doors for potential collaboration. Meeting Gustave and Emmanuel in person after a year of virtual meetings was one of the most rewarding parts of the conference. The opportunity to discuss our work face-to-face strengthened our relationship and reaffirmed the importance of strong partnerships.
Leaving the conference, I felt more empowered to continue working hard and supported by a strong network of like-minded individuals. As I prepare for my trip to Rwanda this summer, I will bring with me the lessons, connections, and motivation I gained from this conference.
By Olivia Chowhurdy