Unveiling Achievements: Spotlight on ReachSci's Volunteer of the Year in Inspiring Success Stories.
Interviewer: Meryeme Belhaddad (Marketing & PR Team Content Writer)
Interviewee: Ali Ali Redha (Food Science & Sports Nutrition Research Director at ReachSci)
Article Editing: Latifa Darraz (Marketing & PR Team Marketer)
Proofreading: Chaimaa Smaili (DEC Team Proofreader) and Fatima Zahrae Azouz (DEC Team Director)
Welcome to 'ReachSci Volunteers Success Stories,' a captivating series of articles meticulously crafted to bring you closer to the heart of ReachSci. This series serves as a window into the dynamic world of our dedicated volunteers, showcasing their passion, innovation, and transformative impact within our community.
In these articles, we unveil the personal narratives of individuals who drive scientific excellence at ReachSci. Each story is a testament to the collective commitment that defines our mission. Join us on this enriching journey as we explore the unique tales of those shaping the future of scientific knowledge and education at ReachSci.
In this article, we are delighted to introduce Ali Ali Redha, a standout PhD student from the University of Exeter and The University of Queensland, who has earned the title of Volunteer of the Year at ReachSci. Since joining as a conference organiser in July 2021 until his promotion as Director of Food Sciences & Sports Nutrition Research, Ali has made exceptional contributions, showcasing his commitment to advancing scientific engagement within the ReachSci community
Could you please introduce yourself briefly and tell us about your background?
“My name is Ali Ali Redha. I am a PhD student at the University of Exeter (UK) and The University of Queensland (Australia). My research focuses on bioactive compounds: their extraction, quantification, bioavailability, and bioactivity.”
What was your initial role or position when you joined ReachSci?
“I joined as a conference organiser in July 2021 and was responsible for planning and organising ReachSci’s first conference.”
Could you share your experience related to ReachSci's First Conference?
“It was my first conference to organise, which boosted my confidence to get involved in organising conferences for other organisations.”
We understand you co-prepared the Global Programme with Mohammed Alawami, ReachSci Founder & President. How was that experience, and what were the key takeaways from this collaboration?
“It was an interesting experience stepping out of my comfort zone and helping develop a programme with a research theme not directly related to my interests. I learned more about that field, enhancing my general knowledge.”
How would you describe your experience in preparing both of your mini-PhD programmes?
“It was a great opportunity to develop programmes with themes related to my research interests, making the job enjoyable. Although time-consuming and challenging, considering students from different countries were involved, the outcomes seem promising.”
What are your visions for future programmes at ReachSci, and how do you see them contributing to our mission?
“The future programmes will target a broader range of students, from those with a background in chemistry and food science to sports sciences. The project themes will contribute to two SDGs by 2030: good health and well-being, and responsible consumption and production.”
You are nominated as the volunteer of the year. What key strategies or actions contributed to achieving this recognition?
“Definitely, the key aspect is having a hardworking and self-motivated team. This would not have happened without the help and support of team members. I especially thank Reza Zare (our project developer), Matias Abriata (vice-coordinator), and Daniela Reyes-Gonzalez (project manager) for their contributions.”
Is there any additional information or achievements you'd like to share that could be important for our group?
“Three of the teams from our current programme have submitted their manuscripts to reputable high-impact factor journals in the field. Two and submissions are currently under peer review, while one has received a minor revision decision. Hopefully, our programme will be the first ReachSci programme to have students publish their projects.”
How can volunteers at ReachSci best contribute to the organisation's mission, and what advice do you have for individuals considering joining ReachSci as volunteers?
“Volunteers at ReachSci play a significant role. Highly motivated, well-organised, and committed volunteers can truly contribute to all aspects of our programmes while improving their skills in time management, communication, and leadership.”