MSF: Doctors Without Borders

HOK Research GmbH and our parent company engage in thousands of surveys each year, and for some of these, we extend charitable donations to participants as a token of appreciation for their support. In times like these, charitable contributions have grown increasingly important, and participants in our research truly value this gesture. Among the select few charities we consistently support, Médecins Sans Frontières / Doctors Without Borders (MSF) holds a special place.

Recently, Médecins Sans Frontières invited their top donors to an event in London, UK. At this remarkable occasion, I had the privilege of attending alongside Chris and Stacey, and our experience was truly inspiring.

The event brought together over ten MSF volunteers and professionals who were eager to share their invaluable insights into their work and roles within MSF. What struck us most was the unwavering passion exhibited by each of them. They each contributed to different areas and brought a unique set of experiences and expertise to the table, all stemming from their frontline involvement in humanitarian missions.

While we were already aware of the vital role Médecins Sans Frontières plays in delivering life-saving medical care to some of the world's most vulnerable populations, this event provided us with a deeper understanding of the intricacies of their work.

One particularly enlightening conversation was with a psychiatrist who had spent several years in war-affected countries. She had been instrumental in training local doctors, nurses, and volunteers to support individuals with mental health issues and cope with the emotional toll of the tragic events that unfolded in these regions. Her ability to communicate in multiple languages to bridge the language barrier was truly impressive.

We were also introduced to the "Missing Maps" initiative, a collaborative and open-source mapping endeavor that addresses the lack of detailed maps in underprivileged regions, especially in developing countries. This initiative, which involves a joint effort with various humanitarian organizations, including Médecins Sans Frontières, aligns perfectly with our commitment to making a positive impact in the world.

We discovered the MapSwipe app, available on various app stores, which leverages the collective efforts of volunteers to actively participate in geospatial data projects. This involvement is instrumental in improving global map data, whether by identifying infrastructure, monitoring environmental changes, or verifying existing map data.

Furthermore, we learned about regular mapathons organized by MSF and eagerly signed up to participate in these fun and impactful events that support MSF and the global community.

The event also provided us with insights into the work of the A&E Air Ambulance and an engaging conversation with a consultant specializing in Tuberculosis and HIV. It deepened our understanding of the incredible work carried out by everyone at Médecins Sans Frontières.

Moving forward, we are committed to continuing our support and donations to MSF. If you are interested in contributing or seeking corporate engagement opportunities with MSF, please let us know. We are more than happy to facilitate a connection with our MSF contact. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the world.