Insights and inspiration for project professionals

We at the PMI Belgium Chapter are extremely grateful for the time and effort that our 50+ volunteers contribute to make our organization a vibrant and engaging community focused on elevating both individual knowledge and collective competency in the field of project management.

As part of our recognition efforts, and inspired by UN's International Volunteer Day, we continue to give our volunteers a virtual podium in the newsletter to acknowledge their involvement and to inspire others to take part in our community. International Volunteer Day, celebrated annually on 5 December, was established by the United Nations to recognise the impact of volunteers worldwide. Its message reminds us that every contribution matters, and this belief is central to how we celebrate our volunteer community.

For this second edition of our Volunteer in the Spotlight, we are delighted to introduce Laji Ajithkumar, a dedicated member whose passion for project management and community building is reflected in her volunteer work. Professionally, Laji is an agile leader with a strong background in program and project management across the railway signaling and enterprise domains. She is passionate about driving collaboration and turning complex ideas into tangible results. Personally, she enjoys exploring cultural diversity, supporting community initiatives, and continuously learning about leadership and innovation.

Some of you may have met Laji during our Member Day 2025 or the PMI BeNeLux Summit 2025, where she contributed by coordinating logistics, engaging with participants, managing time schedules, and ensuring smooth event execution.

Why did you consider becoming a volunteer?

After moving to Belgium a year ago, I initially found it challenging to adapt and felt somewhat isolated. Getting involved in volunteering allowed me to immerse myself in the local culture and build meaningful connections. I decided to volunteer because I believe in giving back to the professional community that has shaped much of my career. PMI provides a unique platform to share knowledge, build connections, and promote project management as a catalyst for positive change. Volunteering enables me to contribute meaningfully while learning from others who share the same passion for excellence and growth.

What do you hope to get or have gotten out of the volunteer assignment yourself?

Volunteering has been an incredibly rewarding learning experience. It has strengthened my leadership and facilitation skills in new contexts and expanded my professional network across diverse industries. One pleasant surprise has been the genuine sense of camaraderie within the PMI Belgium volunteer community. There is a real spirit of collaboration and mutual support.

Why would you recommend others take on a volunteer role for PMI Belgium?

Volunteering with PMI Belgium is a fantastic opportunity to connect, grow, and contribute. It is not only about developing professional skills but also about becoming part of a community that values learning, integrity, and service. Whether you are new to project management or a seasoned professional, there is always something to gain and even more to give. When you volunteer, you take on the responsibility and pride of helping drive events that bring real value to our members.

Is there anything else you want to share?

I truly appreciate the welcoming and inspiring community within PMI Belgium. Every event and initiative reflects a deep commitment to excellence, collaboration, and meaningful impact. Volunteering here has been both personally fulfilling and professionally enriching, and I look forward to continuing to contribute to initiatives that empower professionals and strengthen our project management community.

Gert Van Hoecke
Director of Volunteering, PMI Belgium Chapter
volunteering@pmi-belgium.be