More than 2,000 Qatar residents have volunteered to help at the United Nations Climate Change Conference, the largest event Doha has ever hosted.
The COP18/CMP8 Conference is being held from November 26 to December 7, at the Qatar National Convention Centre and volunteers are still applying for their chance to be part of this important global initiative.
After a flood of enthusiastic and committed residents registered their interest in helping during August and September, the start of the interview process began this month to find those whose skills will be invaluable to the event.
"We are proud to see young Qataris turning out in force to assist us in hosting this historic conference," said Fahad bin Mohamed al-Attiya, a member of the Higher Organising Committee for COP18/CMP8 and the chairman of the Organising Sub-Committee.
"This is an opportunity for Qataris to learn about the impact of climate change and then deliver the message to the wider community about the importance of this issue. Their active participation will help us build awareness about green issues while gaining valuable experience," he explained.
From providing airport assistance and directing visitors to shuttle hubs serving the event venues and hotels, to providing city information and helping the media team, volunteers will play a crucial role.
"This will be an incredible personal development experience for the volunteers," Chiton Vuong, volunteer planner for the COP18/CMP8 Organising Sub-Committee, stated.
"This experience will provide lasting benefits to the wider community by leaving well-trained and motivated volunteers in the Doha community on these issues. This is a chance to leave a legacy."
Professionals will train the volunteers in November, just before the Pre-Session Conference which starts on November 19. Training will include a general session, followed by role-specific training that will give volunteers the knowledge they need to be effective in their particular sector.
Volunteers will receive their stylish, professionally designed uniform before becoming the face of Qatar's hospitality. Applications are still open for those who want to be involved. Volunteers are encouraged to register online at http://www.cop18.qa/en-us/aboutcop18cmp8/volunteerprogramme.aspx or "like" the Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/volunteerscop18cmp8 for instructions on how to get involved.