Institution news
After a career in the defence industry, Syed gained his PhD in October 2019 and has taught undergraduate engineering students at the University of Birmingham. He discovered volunteering at Remap three years ago.
Remap is a rapidly growing charity founded in 1964 that brings together multi-talented engineers and people in search of a solution to an often-unique need.
“I would like to share with my IMechE members that the pleasure and contentment I get after seeing a satisfied client is very rewarding. I couldn’t get the same level of satisfaction after completing many multi-million pounds commercial engineering projects.” Syed Rizvi
The volunteer organisation is delighted that The IMechE Support Network provided them with a £10,000 grant which has supported their continued efforts to recruit more volunteers through their Reaching Out Programme.
Whilst volunteering with Remap, Syed has had the opportunity to be involved in several projects that have transformed the lives of those living with disabilities. One of Syed’s most memorable projects was one in which he collaborated with his colleague, Prof David Rushton, where they engineered a safe solution for an everyday obstacle.
Syed explains, “I am very proud of designing and manufacturing a solution for wider senior citizens and disabled communities where they find it difficult to slide in their chair while sitting in front of the dining or a study table. It was very much appreciated by the client who himself was a retired researcher living on his own.”
Remap depends on a network of volunteers across the UK to provide custom-made equipment to people of all ages with a disability. Syed speaks warmly of the satisfaction he gains as a Remap volunteer, and having seen first-hand the positive impact that his skills have on people's lives, he encourages his colleagues to get involved.
“I would like to invite my IMechE colleagues to join Remap now when they are young, energetic and can give the best of themselves to the needed disabled communities. I joined Remap when I was 42 years old, and would like to continue after I have retired from working life." Syed Rizvi
The IMechE is dedicated to creating an inclusive culture that ensures all of its members and employees thrive and know that they belong. Like Syed and a growing army of volunteers, you too, could utilise your knowledge and skillset, and make an incredible contribution to your community – gaining a great amount of personal satisfaction along the way.
Want to use your skills to help make more things possible for people living with a disability?
Find out how you can become a Remap volunteer - www.remap.org.uk/volunteer-for-remap