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Digital nomadism is about more than freedom of movement and location independence. All over the world, digital nomads are trying to leave a positive impact wherever they go; this can be by helping the local community, or promoting eco-friendly practices or even by helping build a community in their destinations.
These things sound great, but how do you get started?
We spoke to Tarek Kholoussy, Founder of Nomads Giving Back and Nomads Skillshare. Tarek has been a digital nomad for more than 9 years and visited over 100 countries; his passionate about inspiring people to give back and share their skills with one another and with local communities.
Nomads Giving Back helps digital nomads use their skills to support the issues they are most passionate about, whether through advocacy, fundraising or volunteering.
“We also have a volunteer matching program, if you want to give back to a cause and you don’t know how. Just come to us and well help you out” Tarek said.
He added that the best way a nomad can give back is first to be humble, second to try his best to understand the needs of the community, third to reach out to those who are already helping as they have the know-how and the resources, and fourth to ask if his help is needed.
Nomads need to research and understand how they can offer the best value, if they listen to the needs of the locals before setting their goals. Then, they can try their best to help.
Tarek also added that the local communities are always happy to see nomads giving back as long as it’s done the right way explained above.
Regarding the challenges facing Nomads Giving Back, Tarek said one of the biggest challenges is financing, because you have to balance your priorities with your resources as an organization. However, he sees that the fun part of the whole process is overcoming those challenges, “If it was easy, we won’t be doing it” he added.
Some of the most impactful projects of Nomads Giving Back have taken place in Bali and Medellin, where they organized skill sharing events and scholarships to help locals share language skills and find their dream jobs online.
Interested digital nomads who want to join Tarek’s team can check out one of their many programs. There’s the ambassador program where you can help raise awareness about a cause they are supporting, or the volunteer program where you can be matched with an issue you care about and you can apply your skills in supporting it. You can also join the Nomads Giving Back community on social media or subscribe to their newsletters to stay updated.
