News
Mar 7, 2024
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Our 2023 bridge build team
This June, we’ll be waving off another group of Jacobs volunteers as they travel to Rwanda to build a brand-new suspension bridge that will connect communities to vital resources.
From 1 – 14 June 2024, the team of 10 will build a bridge across the Mutumba River alongside global non-profit Bridges to Prosperity, providing safe year-round access to schools, services and markets for over 7,000 people.
This is the third bridge-build Jacobs has undertaken in Rwanda. With more than one in seven rural residents in Rwanda struggling to reach jobs, schools, clinics and hospital because of a lack of connectivity, this is a fantastic opportunity to use our skills to drive positive and lasting change for the local communities the bridge will support.
The team will spend two weeks building the footbridge, while simultaneously getting stuck into local community life, living and working alongside community members and exchanging cultural and technical skills. It’s set to be an opportunity they’ll never forget!
Meet the team
The team is comprised of employees from around the globe, fulfilling specific roles such as project manager and communications lead, as well as general support roles. The team will also be joined by the executive sponsor for the project, Jacobs’ Senior Vice President & General Manager, Americas East, Chrissy Thom.
We asked some of the team why they wanted to take part in the bridge build...
Support Team Member Claire Southam: “Creating a bridge is symbolic not only of the joining together of Jacobs and the skills of its employees with a community in need, but also of the forging of friendships between colleagues from all parts of the world.”
Logistics Lead Ana Joavnovic: “I am ready to be challenged and immerse myself in a unique experience. Let’s build a bridge!”
Communications Lead Judith McVinnie: “I want to take part in this project to create positive change. I hope to inspire my children, family, friends and colleagues and demonstrate that anyone can make good things happen.”
Construction Lead Jeffrey Morris: “I'm excited to see what the 2024 team will accomplish when we all come together, working toward one goal. Helping other people strive for and reach new goals is a very big part of who I am – it's my number one passion in life.”
Project Manager Maya Braxton: “My goal for this experience is to make lifelong memories with the project team and create a generational impact for the community we will serve in Rwanda.”
What’s next?
Over the coming months we’ll share more content about the trip and how you can support our 2024 team – stay tuned!
Want to support the team? Click here to donate to the 2024 Bridges to Prosperity team and help make this program possible.
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