BONN, SWITZERLAND: As a result of Yasemin’s engagement, the library on HIV/AIDS run by the Mgbala Agwa Youth Forum was able to increase their book stock by more than 1,150 publications. The library that was meant to serve a local community is now gaining more regional importance because of its scope and diversity of resources.

Yasemin was the first applicant to Mgbala Agwa’s assignment, and set the groundwork for an effective online volunteer team. Preparing for more volunteers to join, she established an online group on Yahoo, through which all volunteers would be able to communicate and share files. More online volunteers came on board, and Yasemin has coordinated their support to Mgbala Agwa’s outreach activities to organizations and authors.

To Mgbala Agwa, Yasemin is an important member of their organization. They have invited Yasemin to join their board of trustees. Every time new publications reach the library they write her in detail to tell her which books have arrived, and how an increasing number of visitors come rushing into the library, and thank her for every single additional resource. During the organization’s monthly meetings Yasemin’s email messages are printed and read out loud to its members.

As a junior student in university, Yasemin has developed a greater sense of self-esteem because of the impact she has had on Mgbala Agwa and the Nigerian communities they serve.

“Being an online volunteer has made me feel really special because I feel that my efforts were helping many people whom I have never even met. I believe that through the books they read, they will be more cautious and the new generations will have more knowledge about how HIV/AIDS is threatening their lives. I have also learned that one can achieve anything if they truly believe in it.“